Fireworks Sourcing, Direct from the Factory Floor

Fireworks move as Class 1 dangerous goods in full containers (FCL) only — LCL is not accepted for 1.3G and impractical for 1.4G. Your supplier arranges licensed DG trucking to Shanghai, Ningbo or Shenzhen, files the DG declaration, MSDS and packaging certificate, and books with a carrier that accepts Class 1 cargo (book 2–3 weeks ahead; surcharges apply). Air freight and China–Europe rail are not available for fireworks.

For pyrotechnic products the practical MOQ is one 20-foot container — you can usually mix SKUs inside it. Cold-spark machines and other non-pyrotechnic hardware can ship in smaller quantities (even by air), but their consumable granules still move by sea as DG. Custom show services are quoted per event, not per container.

An EX Number is the US DOT/PHMSA explosives approval required before fireworks can be transported to or through the United States. The manufacturer applies through an authorized fireworks approval laboratory (e.g. AFSL’s lab) and receives approval letters per product family. As a buyer, request the EX letter schedule for every SKU on your order and cross-check it against the packing list before the container closes.

Video sampling is the industry standard: the factory shoots numbered test videos of your selected items so you can judge effect height, break and timing. Physical samples can ship as small DG consignments but cost is high. Before bulk shipment, commission a pre-shipment inspection or third-party audit (SGS/BV) — and factory visits are welcomed by established exporters.