Chinese products have so many advantages, following are some tips to import from China:
1. |Market Research|:
– Use resources such as Internet searches, trade magazines, and professional market research services to gather information.
– Consider attending industry exhibitions and trade fairs and talking to industry insiders to get first-hand information.
2. |Determine Requirements|:
– Develop a detailed procurement plan, including product lists, budgets, and schedules.
– Consider product compliance to ensure products meet regulations and standards in target markets.
3. |Search for suppliers|:
– Search for potential suppliers through platforms such as Alibaba, Huicong.com and Global Sources.
– Check suppliers’ qualifications and certifications, such as ISO certification, CE marking, etc.
4. |Product Screening and Evaluation|:
– Ask suppliers to provide product catalogs, technical specifications, and historical transaction records.
– If possible, visit factories for site inspections.
5. |Inquiry and quotation|:
– Prepare detailed RFQs, including product description, quality requirements, expected quantity, etc.
– Evaluate the supplier’s response time, level of detail and professionalism of the quotation.
6. |Price Negotiation|:
– Understand market prices and develop a negotiation strategy, including target price and range of concessions.
– Consider using purchase volume as a negotiating chip for volume discounts.
7. |Sample Confirmation|:
– Arrange for sample testing, which may include functionality testing, durability testing, etc.
– Ensure that samples are consistent with mass-produced products.
8. |Contract Signing|:
– Clarify contract terms, including but not limited to price terms (e.g. FOB, CIF), payment terms (e.g. 30% advance payment, 70% balance payment before shipment).
– Include quality assurance terms and liability for breach of contract.
9. |Quality Control|:
– Work with a third party quality control company, such as SGS, BV, etc., to conduct factory audits and product inspections.
– Consider implementing AQL (Acceptable Quality Level) standards.
10. |Logistics arrangements|:
– Select the appropriate mode of transportation based on the size, weight, value and delivery period of the goods.
– Consider packaging requirements for the goods to ensure safety during transportation.
11. |Payment and Settlement|:
– Understand the advantages and risks of different payment methods and choose the appropriate payment channel.
– Consider the use of letters of credit to minimize risk.
12. |Cargo tracking|:
– Work with logistics companies to obtain real-time information on cargo transportation.
– Prepare for possible transportation delays or losses.
13. |Import Customs Clearance|:
– Understand the importing country’s tariff policy and customs clearance process, and calculate import taxes and fees.
– Prepare necessary documents such as certificate of origin, health certificate, etc.
14. |Establishing long-term relationship|:
– Build mutual trust with suppliers through regular communication and feedback.
– Consider incentives for long-term cooperation in contracts.
15. |Understand laws and regulations|:
– Consult with a professional lawyer or trade advisor to ensure that transactions comply with relevant laws and regulations.
– Understand intellectual property protection issues in international trade.
16. |Cultural Differences|:
– Learn basic Chinese business terms and understand Chinese business negotiation styles.
– Respect Chinese holidays and work habits.
17. |Use professional services|:
– Consider hiring a sourcing agent to assist with language communication, contract negotiation, etc. Contact us
– Use a professional logistics consultant to optimize shipping costs and time. Contact us
