There are numerous ways of sourcing your products in China, some examples include Alibaba, Aliexpress, Made In China, via exhibitions or an agent, to name but a few.
It's important to recognise the elements involved when buying products in China and this will revolve around selecting the right factory to work with for your specific product and order quantity.
For small quantities, typically <100 (depending on the product), Aliexpress is probably your best bet, although it's important to realise you will be charged more for your product than working directly with a bona fide factory.
Alibaba suppliers may offer small quantities (<100) but these are likely to be resellers and not bona fide factories. Bona fide factories will generally require much higher MOQ's (typically 1000+) in order to entertain your enquiry.
If it's your first time purchasing from China and your quantities are viable to use an agent, then I would suggest using this method for at least the first time, so you understand the processes involved from sourcing to delivery to your door. The agent cost will probably be covered by any potential mistakes you make during your first import.
If you are developing a new product, or range of products, I would strongly recommend using an agent to look after the processes in China, as they can ensure that each stage of the process is running smoothly and rectify any issues, generally associated with product development.
The above is just a general guideline and each business will require a different process to follow.
It's important to recognise the elements involved when buying products in China and this will revolve around selecting the right factory to work with for your specific product and order quantity.
For small quantities, typically <100 (depending on the product), Aliexpress is probably your best bet, although it's important to realise you will be charged more for your product than working directly with a bona fide factory.
Alibaba suppliers may offer small quantities (<100) but these are likely to be resellers and not bona fide factories. Bona fide factories will generally require much higher MOQ's (typically 1000+) in order to entertain your enquiry.
If it's your first time purchasing from China and your quantities are viable to use an agent, then I would suggest using this method for at least the first time, so you understand the processes involved from sourcing to delivery to your door. The agent cost will probably be covered by any potential mistakes you make during your first import.
If you are developing a new product, or range of products, I would strongly recommend using an agent to look after the processes in China, as they can ensure that each stage of the process is running smoothly and rectify any issues, generally associated with product development.
The above is just a general guideline and each business will require a different process to follow.
