Simple definition: low cost, high profitability, and sustained market demand, all three of which can be met at the same time as the most profitable commodity.
As the “world’s largest factory”, China’s manufacturing sector benefits from lower labor costs, which often translates into lower production costs and thus lower purchasing costs for buyers. The cost advantage of importing from China allows companies to offer competitive prices, which is an important advantage in the marketplace.
Diversification of production types, from electronics and textiles to machinery and consumer goods, China produces a wide range of products, and many Chinese manufacturers offer customization services that enable sellers or businesses to tailor products to specific needs or branding requirements. A wide range of products can help sellers or businesses diversify their product offerings and appeal to a broader customer base.
What are the channels through which goods can be sourced from China
Sourcing goods from China can be done through various channels, each offering different advantages depending on your business needs and objectives. Here are some of the primary channels through which goods can be sourced from China:
Online Marketplaces
Alibaba: One of the largest global wholesale marketplaces, Alibaba offers a wide range of products from various suppliers. It’s an excellent platform for finding manufacturers, wholesalers, and trading companies.
Global Sources: Another significant B2B platform that connects buyers with verified suppliers. It often has higher standards for supplier verification.
Made-in-China: A comprehensive platform that provides access to a vast array of products and suppliers.
DHgate: A platform focused on smaller wholesale quantities, making it suitable for small and medium-sized businesses.
1688.com: The domestic version of Alibaba, primarily in Chinese, offering lower prices but requiring knowledge of the Chinese language or a translator.
Trade Shows and Exhibitions
Canton Fair: The largest trade fair in China, held bi-annually in Guangzhou. It covers a wide range of industries and is an excellent place to meet suppliers face-to-face.
Yiwu International Trade Fair: Specializes in small commodities and is ideal for sourcing a variety of small products.
Global Sources Expo: Held in Hong Kong and focused on electronics, gifts, home, and fashion products.
Industry-Specific Shows: Various trade shows focus on specific industries, such as electronics, textiles, or machinery.
Business Directories and B2B Platforms
Kompass: A global B2B directory listing manufacturers, suppliers, and exporters.
ThomasNet: Though primarily for North American suppliers, it sometimes includes Chinese manufacturers.
HKTDC: The Hong Kong Trade Development Council provides a directory of suppliers and products.
Direct Manufacturer Contact
Factory Visits: Visiting manufacturers directly in China allows for better relationship building, quality inspection, and negotiation.
Referrals and Networks: Using industry contacts or business networks to get referrals to reliable manufacturers.
Wholesale Markets
You can get the goods you want faster offline.
Yiwu Wholesale Market: One of the largest wholesale markets in the world, offering a vast array of products.
Huaqiangbei Electronics Market: Located in Shenzhen, this market is renowned for electronic components and consumer electronics.
Guangzhou Wholesale Markets: Various markets in Guangzhou specialize in textiles, clothing, accessories, and more.
These three are the most famous wholesale markets in China.
How to safely import goods from China?
Transportation and Logistics
Work with a reliable freight forwarder to handle transportation logistics, customs clearance and delivery.
Decide on the best mode of transportation (air, sea or courier) based on cost, speed and volume.
Ensure that all necessary shipping documents (bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, etc.) are filled out accurately.
Prepare all necessary documents and know the import regulations of the country you are in to prepare for customs clearance.
Understand customs and tariffs
Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) codes for your products to calculate duties and taxes.
Consider hiring a customs broker to streamline the clearance process and ensure compliance with regulations.
Understand any duties, taxes and fees that apply to your imported products.
Follow-up after delivery
Verify goods received against order specifications and quality standards.
Provide feedback to suppliers on product quality and delivery.
Maintain good relationships with suppliers for future orders and potential improvements.
Best-selling Chinese products internationally
Electronics and small goods
Brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi and OnePlus are popular worldwide. Accessories such as chargers, cases and screen protectors also sell well.
Products such as headphones, Bluetooth speakers, smartwatches and fitness trackers are in high demand.
Chinese company DJI is the market leader in consumer and professional drones.
Health and Beauty Products
Perfect Diary is a fast-growing Chinese beauty brand known for its affordable cosmetics.
Naturally Plus is an enduring brand known for its skincare products.
Toys and Games
VTech specializes in electronic learning products.
Hape is known for its high quality wooden toys.
Goliath Games produces a variety of board games and puzzles.
Pet Supplies
Dogness is known for innovative pet products, including smart pet collars and feeders.
Petkit specializes in smart pet products and accessories.
Ways to ship products from China
Choosing the best shipping method depends on factors such as the nature of the goods, budget, and time constraints. The primary shipping methods are:
Air Freight: Ideal for time-sensitive shipments, air freight offers fast transit times but is generally more expensive than sea freight. It is best for high-value or perishable goods that need to reach the destination quickly.
Ocean Freight: This is the most cost-effective way of transporting large quantities of goods. Sea freight is suitable for non-urgent cargoes and bulky items. It includes Full Container Load (FCL) and Less Than Container Load (LCL) options.
Express Shipping: Companies like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer express shipping services that combine the speed of air freight with door-to-door delivery. This option is perfect for small parcels and urgent deliveries.
Choosing a Freight Forwarder from China to the USA – LinkTrans
LinkTrans is a leading freight forwarder and a key member of the Amazon Service Provider Network (Amazon SPN). Choosing the right freight forwarder can greatly impact the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your shipments. Book your shipments in advance, especially before major holidays, and provide information about your company and shipments to avoid delays and secure better rates, and linktrans will provide you with personalized service.
07 Aug, 2024
