Many businesses around the world rely on Chinese imports to meet their inventory needs. However, newcomers to the importing process may find it complicated and costly. To help manage Chinese imports more efficiently, here are eight tips that businesses can use.
The tips cover a range of topics, including how to import directly from China, where to find import bulk from China suppliers, and six tips for importing products from China. By following these guidelines, businesses can streamline their importing process and save time and money.
Key Takeaways
- Efficiently managing Chinese imports is crucial for many businesses worldwide.
- The article provides eight tips to help businesses navigate the importing process, including how to import directly from China and where to find import bulk from China suppliers.
- By following these tips, businesses can save time and money while streamlining their importing process.
How to Import Directly from China?
1. Understand Your Role in the Process
When importing products from China, the importer only needs to provide their address information to the supplier. The supplier will handle the shipment, which may come via air or ocean shipping. Smaller packages with a lower value will be delivered directly to the importer’s door.
2. Find Good Products
It is important to identify good products when importing from China. Chinese factories produce a lot of excellent products, but also a lot of low-quality products. To avoid purchasing low-quality products, it is crucial to know how to differentiate between good and bad products. This can be done by ensuring a differentiated and defensible offer. In other words, if the importer controls the key products they sell, if no other company sells the same product, and if their customers recognize the difference from their competitors, they are in good shape.
3. Check the Import Laws of your Country
Before importing overseas products, the importer should ensure that they are legally allowed to import them into their country. Some countries have import restrictions on certain types of products. Attempting to import restricted items may result in the shipment being sent back to the shipper, and the importer may even be fined by the government.
4. Find the Classification Number of the Product (HS CODE)
Each imported item has its own tariff classification number that is ten digits long. The tariff classification number and the Certificate of Origin are necessary to calculate the rate of duty, which is an import fee that must be paid. The landed cost must also be calculated. The Incoterms are particularly essential to focus on. Before submitting an order to the supplier, the importer should ensure that the landed cost is calculated. The FOB (free on board) rate can be found by adding together the product price, Chinese shipping charges, customs clearance fee, land transport costs, and Duty & Tax costs.
5. Locating the Chinese Supplier
After identifying the products to import from China, the next step is to find a supplier who can fulfill the order. The importer should ensure that they understand the shipping terms, especially regarding the delivery time. Once a suitable supplier has been found, the importer should request a Proforma Invoice from them, also called a Quote Sheet. This documentation will provide specific information about the purchases, such as the weight, packed dimensions, value, and description of each product.
6. Calculate the Total Shipping Costs
International shipments have various fees attached to them, including container fees, broker fees, packaging fees, and terminal handling fees. The total cost of all these fees should be added up to know what to expect for shipping expenses. Before arranging the shipment, the importer should ask the supplier for the necessary documents, including a Commercial Invoice, a Packing List, a Detail Sheet, and a Bill of Lading. These documents will be required to clear customs. Ocean shipping is a much bigger headache but totally worth it. If importing a large production volume, the importer can easily save between 5-6x compared to shipping by air.
7. Track the Shipment
International shipments take time to arrive. For example, if an importer on the East Coast of the United States orders a product from China, they may not receive the shipment for about 30 days. If they are on the West Coast, it will only take about 14 days or so. The importer should save the freight documents related to the shipment, such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list. These documents can be used to understand the customs clearance process that the shipment will go through after arriving in the country. The importer should ask their customs broker to accept the shipment when it arrives at the customs facility. If there are no discrepancies with the paperwork, then the shipment should be available for pick up after customs clear it. For smaller orders, the shipment will be delivered to the address specified initially.
8. Check the Arrival of the Shipment
After receiving the goods, the importer should check the product quality and provide feedback to the supplier. They should let the supplier know where they should improve for the next order. The importer should also ask their customs broker to accept the shipment when it arrives at the customs facility. If there are no discrepancies with the paperwork, then the shipment should be available for pick up after customs clear it. For smaller orders, the shipment will be delivered to the address specified initially.
Where to Find Import Bulk from China Supplier?
If you are unable to travel to China, the most convenient way to find Chinese wholesale suppliers is by utilizing an online directory, such as Alibaba or GlobalSources.com. Once you have built contact with a supplier, you can ask for samples, place orders, and more. However, it is important to note that this process can take a while, and communication back and forth with suppliers requires patience.
12 Best China Websites to Import Products from China Directly:
There are six main Chinese wholesale websites that currently exist, including Alibaba, AliExpress, Global Source, Lightinthebox, DHgate, and Made-in-China. To find the best website to import products from China, you can check out this post on how to find a supplier in China.
Below is a list of the 12 best China websites to import products from China directly, including their product categories, business type, and sign-up information:
| Company | Product Category | Business Type | Sign Up |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uniway Sourcing | Sourcing company | Develop Private Label Products | Free |
| Alibaba | General | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| AliExpress | General | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| Global Sources | General | Directory | Free |
| Lightinthebox | Limited category | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| DHgate.com | Limited category | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| Madeinchina | Machinery, Electronics | Directory | Free |
| Chinavasion | Electronic, Gadgets | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| DealExtreme | Electronic, Gadgets | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| BangGood | Electronic | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| Tomtop | Electronic, Gadgets | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
| Everbuying | Electronic | Wholesale & Dropship sites | Free |
Using these websites, you can import products from China directly and expand your business.
6 Tips for Importing Products from China
Importing products from China can be a profitable business venture, but it can also be a risky one if not done correctly. Here are six tips to help ensure a successful importing experience.
1. Don’t Always Choose the Cheapest Products
While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest products to save money, it’s important to remember that quality should not be sacrificed. In fact, products that are priced too cheaply may be of low quality and could harm your business reputation. It’s recommended to compare prices from different vendors and choose products that are reasonably priced and of good quality.
2. Explain Your Specifications to the Supplier
To avoid any misunderstandings or mistakes, it’s important to clearly communicate your specifications and requirements to the supplier. This includes product specifications, shipping details, and any other specific needs you may have. This will help ensure that you receive the products you want and that they meet your expectations.
3. Don’t Act Suspicious of the Supplier Upfront
Building a good relationship with your supplier is key to a successful importing experience. It’s important to show trust and respect to your supplier, even if it’s a new business relationship. Acting suspicious or rude can harm the relationship and lead to poor customer support or low-quality products.
4. Verify FOB Terms
FOB (Free On Board) is a common shipping term used in international trade. It’s important to confirm with your supplier that they accept FOB terms for their closest airport or port. This can help you save on shipping expenses and give you more control over the shipment.
5. Be Mindful of Shipping Times
Shipping products from China can take a significant amount of time, sometimes up to 30 days or more. It’s important to plan for these shipping times and to communicate with your supplier about any potential delays or issues. Additionally, it’s recommended to work with a reliable shipping company to ensure timely delivery.
6. Commercial Import Regulations
If you are importing products for resale or commercial purposes, it’s important to be aware of the commercial import regulations. Customs authorities may evaluate your shipment to determine if it is for personal or commercial use. To avoid any issues, it’s recommended to follow all regulations and properly declare your shipment.
By following these six tips, you can help ensure a successful importing experience from China. Remember to prioritize quality, communicate clearly with your supplier, and stay aware of shipping times and regulations.
Import Products from China Conclusion:
Becoming an independent importer is a challenging yet rewarding venture. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the areas where external assistance will be necessary. The easiest way to import products from China is by identifying a supplier and purchasing samples. Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the overall design of your product.
Once you have finalized your design, it is important to seek instructions from a freight forwarder to ensure that the bulk purchases are imported correctly into your home country.
Importing products from China can be a smooth process if done correctly. However, it is important to be aware of potential problems such as language barriers, cultural differences, and shipping delays.
By following the steps outlined above, you can minimize the risk of encountering issues and successfully import products from China. Remember to conduct thorough research on the supplier and freight forwarder to ensure a smooth and successful transaction.