Top 10 Must Know Rules for Buying from China Platforms

If you've ever shopped on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Taobao or 1688, you know the deals can be insane. But let’s be real — without the right know-how, it’s easy to get burned. As someone who’s helped over 300 global brands source products from China, I’ve seen it all: fake reviews, shipping nightmares, and quality disasters. So here are the top 10 rules you *must* follow to buy smart.

1. Use a Trusted Agent (Seriously)

Most Chinese sites don’t ship internationally or support foreign payments. That’s where agents like Superbuy or Pandabuy come in. They act as your local buyer, warehouse, and forwarder. Pro tip: Pick one with English support and transparent fees.

2. Check Seller Ratings Like a Detective

In China, seller credibility is everything. Look for stores with at least a 4.8/5 rating and over 10,000 reviews. Avoid those with suspiciously perfect feedback — often fake.

3. Understand MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities)

Platforms like 1688 are wholesale-focused. A product listed at $1? Great. But if the MOQ is 500 units, that’s a problem unless you’re reselling. Always check before falling in love with a price.

4. Negotiate — Yes, Really

Unlike Amazon, prices on Chinese platforms aren’t always fixed. Message sellers directly. Ask for discounts on bulk orders. I once got 18% off a lighting order just by asking politely in broken Chinese!

5. Watch Out for Hidden Costs

The sticker price is rarely the final price. Factor in agent fees, international shipping, customs, and taxes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Cost Type	Avg. Cost (per kg)	Notes
Shipping (Air)	$4–$7	Faster but pricier
Shipping (Sea)	$1.50–$3	Cheaper for large shipments
Agent Service Fee	3%–5%	Based on product value
Customs Duty	Varies by country	Check your local rates

6. Request Real Product Photos

Stock images lie. Ask the seller to send actual photos or even a video of the item. Some agents offer inspection services for $5–$10 — worth every penny.

7. Use Alipay or Escrow — Never Wire Directly

Always pay through secure channels. Alipay holds your money until you confirm delivery. No escrow? Walk away.

8. Beware of "Too Good to Be True" Deals

A brand-new iPhone for $150? Yeah, no. Counterfeits are rampant. Stick to reputable sellers and avoid luxury knockoffs — customs will seize them anyway.

9. Track Every Shipment

Use tools like 17track.net. Chinese tracking numbers can be confusing, but your agent should help decode them.

10. Start Small

First time? Order one unit to test quality and service. Once you trust the seller, scale up.

Buying from China isn’t hard — it just takes strategy. Follow these rules, and you’ll save time, money, and stress. Now go grab those deals — wisely.