Samples and purchasing
How to Order Product Samples from China Before Buying in Bulk
What to send a Chinese supplier, which sample to request, how to confirm the costs and what to check before placing a larger order.
China sourcing and shipping insights
Practical guidance for international buyers on suppliers, sampling, quality checks, purchasing and delivery.
Quality checks
Pre-Shipment Inspection in China: What to Check Before Dispatch
A practical guide to checking goods before they leave China: prepare the instructions, review the findings and decide how to handle problems before dispatch.
Supplier verification
Factory or Trading Company in China? What to Ask Before You Buy
Find out who is selling your order, who will make the product and what evidence to request before comparing Chinese suppliers.
Consolidation and shipping
How to Combine Orders from Several Suppliers in China
Arrange a combined shipment from China: identify each order, track arrivals, agree packing and compare the full costs before choosing a dispatch plan.
Purchase planning
Product Specifications: What to Send a Chinese Supplier
Write a clear product specification with the model, materials, dimensions, accessories, packing and checks suppliers need to quote the same item.
1688 sourcing
How to Buy from 1688 Internationally: Samples to Shipment
A practical 1688 buying checklist: supplier quotes, product specifications, sample approval, inspection and the handover to international shipping.
International delivery
Door-to-Door Shipping from China: Quote Checklist and DAP vs DDP
Compare China door-to-door shipping quotes: packing data, customs responsibilities, DAP versus DDP, destination charges and the delivery address.