Looking for information online about importing from China? Have you already tried Google’s search engine results and found the experience less than ideal. If the answer is yes, then you’ve come to the right place. If you want to learn about importing directly from China, then this article can help you move forward.
There are a lot of “stereotypes” about China. But the truth is, it’s a big country with LOTS of suppliers and factories. If you want to import from China, then before starting hunting, you need to know these 9 things.
Section: You will have to do the research yourself.
There are many types of suppliers and manufacturers in China. Some of them are great. Some of them will rip you off. If you haven’t already done it, I recommend taking the time to read some blogs about importing from China. There are tons of people who have already gone through this process and learned a lot along the way. They can help guide your journey and point out any dangerous signals that may indicate fraud or bad suppliers.
Section: You need to know what you want before contacting them.
You should have a clear understanding of what you want to buy, how much it will cost, and when to ship. The more information you can provide in advance, the better. Because this will help ensure mutual agreement and reduce future confusion.
It is also important that you’re ready to make your purchase. This means having a credit card or bank account. There is available funds to cover the cost of your order. And any additional fees or deposits requested by the supplier. You should also have a shipping address set up so that they can send your goods directly to you.
Section: Be patient and don’t expect everything to happen overnight or even within a month’s time frame.
You may have to wait a few weeks before you receive your order. The supplier may send you the estimated arrival date of the goods. But it should be noted that this is only an estimate. It may be based on the number of orders in their queue. And how many different suppliers are involved in shipping your goods that have changed.
Takeaway：If you want to get your goods as quickly as possible. It’s best to order early in the month.
You should also be aware that if there is any issue with your order. You will need to contact the supplier directly.
Section: Stop considering price alone.
The first step in buying from China is to select a supplier. This can be done through Alibaba or using a purchasing agent. The purchasing agent will help you find suppliers that are suitable for your needs. Once you have selected a supplier and placed an order, there are several steps before receiving the goods. This is where many buyers make mistakes.
The first step is to make sure your supplier has all of the information they need from you. This includes:
- Your order details (quantity, size, color, etc.)
- The quality of materials that you want to use for your product (if applicable)
- A sample that you can send them so they can confirm the look and feel before making any orders
- The timeline for when you need your products
- A payment schedule, including when you’re going to pay for the order and how much you will be paying. (typically 30% of the total cost at this stage)
Takeaway：When ordering from China, it is important to remember that the shipping time may be as long as six weeks or longer. And when your product arrives at the destination, additional fees related to customs clearance may be charged.
Section: Find a Qualified Sourcing Agent.
When you are ready to start producing your product, you need a purchasing agent. The purchasing agent will cooperate with Chinese manufacturers to ensure that they can produce the product quality you want. And meet your production schedule. Sourcing agents have experience working with factories on both sides of this equation. This means they know what kind of samples need to be sent back and forth between both parties. This way, all parties will feel satisfied before placing an order.
Sourcing agents can help you find suitable manufacturers for your products and negotiate contracts. Also ensure that your product meets specifications. They can also assist with shipping and customs clearance when it comes time to ship your order.
Takeaway：When purchasing from China, it is important to hire an experienced and qualified procurement agent. Import products to the United States or other countries.
Section: Go to trade shows and networking events.
If you’re looking to get into the importing business. Then it’s a good idea to go to trade shows and networking events. You can meet with suppliers face-to-face and learn about their products before making any decisions. This will help you avoid scams and make sure that the supplier is reputable.
Section: Costly Mistakes to Avoid.
Here are some mistakes to avoid when importing from China:
1) Don’t believe all the hype about Chinese products being inferior. There are plenty of quality items available, but you’ll need to do your research.
2) Don’t trust suppliers who offer free samples. This is a common scam that can lead to expensive orders and bad reviews on websites like Alibaba.
3) Don’t pay for your order upfront or send money through Western Union or MoneyGram.
4) Don’t assume that because a company has been around for years that it’s trustworthy. A lot of scam artists are smart enough to create websites that look like they’ve been in business for decades.
5) Don’t use Alibaba as your only source of information about Chinese suppliers. There are plenty of other websites out there with quality reviews and information about suppliers.
Section: Ask for recommendations from colleagues and other local manufacturers.
If you’re looking to get into the importing business. Then it’s a good idea to ask for recommendations from colleagues and other local manufacturers. You can ask them what suppliers they use, how much they pay for their products. And if they have any advice on getting started in this business.
At the same time, online surveys can also be conducted. If you are unsure where to start when importing products from China or any other country. So first, do some research online. Search for ‘Import’ and your product category.
Section: Always check certifications and legal documents before doing business with a supplier.
It’s important to make sure that the products you are importing are legally certified and safe for use. For example, if you’re selling a product that requires electrical certification. Then check with your supplier to see if they have this certificate. You should also request copies of any legal documents from your supplier. This includes import-export licenses and certificates of origin (COO).
You can also check with the supplier to find out what type of certification their products require. And if they have any legal documents. If not, please ask them how long it will take to obtain these certificates. And whether this is included in your order price.
Takeaway: Finding the right supplier can be challenging, but planning ahead and doing your research will help make the journey easier!