Sourcing from China is a process, not a single step. Understanding the full flow helps you plan better and avoid delays. Here is the complete process.
Step 1: Define your product
- What is the exact product?
- What are the key specifications?
- What is your target retail price?
- Which market will you sell in?
Step 2: Research suppliers
- Search Alibaba, Made-in-China, Global Sources
- Check LinkedIn for factory profiles
- Ask for recommendations in industry forums
Step 3: Request quotes
Send a clear RFQ (Request for Quotation) to 5 suppliers with:
- Product spec and quantity
- Packaging requirements
- Target market and certification
- Delivery deadline
Step 4: Compare and shortlist
- Compare unit price, MOQ and lead time
- Ask for certifications and test reports
- Check references
- Shortlist 2–3 suppliers
Step 5: Order samples
- Order samples from each shortlisted supplier
- Compare quality, packaging and finish
- Test functionality
- Choose the best one
Step 6: Negotiate
- Price — for the target quantity
- Payment terms — deposit and balance
- Lead time — from deposit to shipment
- QC process — in-line and final inspection
Step 7: Place the order
- Sign a Purchase Order or contract
- Pay the deposit
- Confirm the spec and packaging artwork
Step 8: Production and QC
- Supplier produces the order
- You receive photo and video updates
- Final inspection before balance payment
Step 9: Shipping
- Book freight or use the supplier's forwarder
- Receive the Bill of Lading
- Pay the balance (if not already paid)
- Ship to your port, warehouse or FBA
Step 10: Receive and review
- Inspect the shipment on arrival
- Document any issues immediately
- Plan your next order
We follow this process on every order and provide documentation at each step. Contact us to start your first order.