Sourcing from China: The Complete Guide
The truth most beginners learn the expensive way: 90% of sourcing disasters happen in two places — picking the wrong supplier type, and mis-calculating landed cost. This guide walks the whole process with real numbers and checklists.
The full process (and where people get stuck)
| Step | What happens | Common mistake | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Find suppliers | Platforms, trade shows, referrals, industrial belts | Only buying on one platform | How to find suppliers |
| 2. Verify | License checks, export records, video factory walkthrough | Trusting 5-star reviews | How to verify a supplier |
| 3. Use an agent? | Commission, monthly fee, or markup — the 3 models | Hiring one blind, or refusing help entirely | China sourcing agent |
| 4. Sample & audit | Pre-production sample, factory audit checklist | Skip the audit to save money | Factory audit checklist |
| 5. Import | Clearance, HS codes, DDP vs FOB, shipping timeline | Not knowing your HS code | How to import from China |
| 6. Cost | Landed cost = goods + freight + duty + fees | Quoting on FOB price only | Landed cost calculator |
Stop guessing — use the checklist
Get the free supplier checklist (30 items) used before every vetting order we deliver.
Get the free checklist