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A practical starting point for importers
How to source products from China
A clear product brief makes supplier discussions more useful. This guide explains what to prepare before requesting quotations, how to compare options and which questions to ask before an order is agreed.
1. Prepare a product brief that suppliers can quote
Start with the product you need and the quantity you expect to order. An Alibaba, 1688, Amazon or other product link can help explain the idea, but it should be accompanied by your own requirements. A listing may show several sizes, materials or packaging options.
- Product name, intended use, material, dimensions and any important performance requirements.
- Target quantity and whether this is a trial order or a repeat purchase.
- Reference links, photos or drawings, including the version you want to discuss.
- Logo, retail packaging, labeling and carton requirements.
- Destination country and city, target timing and budget with the currency stated.
If a specification is still undecided, say so. Separating essential requirements from preferences makes it easier to discuss alternatives without changing the core product.
2. Compare supplier quotations on the same basis
The lowest unit price does not necessarily describe the lowest total purchase cost. Compare quotations for the same specification and quantity. Ask what is included, what is charged separately and how long the quotation remains valid.
| Item to compare | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Product specification | Are the material, dimensions, color and packaging the same in each quote? |
| Minimum order quantity | Does the minimum apply per product, color, logo or packaging version? |
| Price basis | Which currency, quantity and trade term does the price cover? |
| Additional charges | Are sample, printing, tooling or packing charges separate? |
| Timing | When does production timing start, and what approvals are needed first? |
Record the answers in one comparison sheet. Confirm payment terms and the agreed scope in writing before committing to an order.
3. Review a sample before confirming the production specification
A sample helps you review appearance, dimensions, materials and packaging. Confirm whether it represents the proposed production version and which details are still provisional. Sample availability, charges and delivery time depend on the product and supplier.
For customized items, compare the sample with the agreed artwork and specification. Keep a record of approved details and requested changes. A sample review does not replace any testing, inspection or destination-market compliance requirements that apply to your product.
4. Discuss your logo and custom packaging early
Custom packaging can affect the minimum order quantity, setup cost and lead time. Provide artwork, packaging dimensions and the information that needs to appear on the label. Confirm the product count per carton and any handling or pallet requirements.
Ask which customization options are available for the product. Logo application, custom packaging and OEM / ODM scope are agreed for each project; they should not be assumed from a general product listing. Check any labeling or documentation requirements for your destination before approving artwork.
5. Plan shipping and compare the total cost
Shipping costs depend on the shipment size, weight, destination and method. Provide your destination country and city and state any timing preferences. If you are comparing transport options, ask what each quotation includes and where your responsibilities begin.
Keep product costs, customization charges, sourcing service fees and shipping costs visible as separate items. Ask which duties, taxes, destination charges or other expenses are excluded rather than assuming they are included in a unit price.
OneBuyDesk advertises a 4% sourcing service fee. Request a quotation to confirm the fee calculation and the product and shipping costs for your specific order. Minimum quantities and customization availability depend on the product and supplier.
6. Request a China sourcing quote from OneBuyDesk
OneBuyDesk helps discuss product and supplier sourcing, samples, customization and shipping planning. Start with a free quote request and share the information you already have. You can describe your product, provide a reference link or send photos through WhatsApp.
A quote request is free and carries no commitment. Product, service and shipping costs are discussed separately before an order is agreed.
Get a free sourcing quoteWhatsApp: +86 152 4439 8914