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Buying from China: start here
Free, source-linked guides for small business buyers, in the order you need them: where to find suppliers, how to check them, how to ask for quotes, and what it really costs to import.
1. Where to find suppliers
- Where in China are small goods, electronics, apparel, furniture, toys, small appliances and hardware made? 10 sourcing clusters and public data
- Buying from Yiwu market in China: what should an importer understand first?
- Can overseas buyers purchase directly on 1688? Is there an official cross-border entry?
2. Check the supplier
3. Ask for quotes and samples
4. Import, costs and responsibility
- Why your landed cost is off: 12 fees buyers and sellers often miss
- Quoting CIF or CIP: how much cargo insurance must the seller buy, and what is the difference?
- Toys, small appliances, chargers, apparel and shoes, furniture, cosmetics: what certification do you need for the US, EU, UK, Mexico, Brazil and Saudi Arabia?
- If goods have problems in the US, is the importer responsible? Can inspection be left to the Chinese factory?
- How is volumetric weight calculated for DHL, FedEx and UPS, and what divisors do they use?
This page is our summary of public rules and discussion, not an official answer, and it does not guarantee any customs, tax or account outcome. Follow local laws and regulations and handle every step lawfully. For a specific case, check with the relevant authority or a licensed professional.
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