Are you interested to know how can you buy from 1688, even if you are not in China? It is not so easy to buy from 1688 if you are a foreigner. But, by properly comprehending this site, you can surely find that it is really a treasure. You can always find a considerably larger variety of goods.

1688 is the largest B2B e-commerce platform in China, offering a vast range of products at wholesale prices. However, many buyers outside of China find it difficult to navigate the platform and purchase products due to language barriers, payment methods, and shipping issues.

Difference between Alibaba.com and 1688.com

Well, the basic difference between the two sites should be clear to you. Alibaba.com is a certain global business spread in more than 240 countries having a presence in different languages, while 1688.com is its Chinese counterpart.

The basic difference between these two sites is that 1688.com focuses only on domestic wholesale trade. Meanwhile, other sites like Alibaba.com and AliExpress sites have been focused on only exports from the beginning.

Due to this reason, 1688.com website is only available in Chinese language, while the Alibaba.com platforms are in English and also available in Spanish, French, and a few other major languages.

In this article, we will discuss how you can buy cheaper products from 1688 and the advantages of hiring a China 1688 sourcing agent.

Step 1: Register an account on 1688

The first step to buying products from 1688 is to create an account. The registration process is straightforward, and you will need to provide your name, email address, and phone number.

It is essential to note that 1688 is primarily a B2B platform, and you may need to provide proof of your business to access certain products and negotiate prices with suppliers.

Step 2: Search for products

Once you have registered, you can search for products using keywords, categories, or the supplier’s name. You can also use filters to narrow down your search results, such as price range, shipment location, and minimum order quantity.

Step 3: Contact the supplier

After you have found a product you are interested in, you can contact the supplier to ask questions, negotiate prices, and arrange payment and shipping.

It is crucial to communicate clearly with the supplier and ask for detailed information about the product, including materials, quality control, and lead time.

Step 4: Place an order

Once you have agreed on the terms with the supplier, you can place an order and make payment. 1688 supports several payment methods, including wire transfer, online payment platforms such as Alipay, and credit card.

Step 5: Shipping

Once the payment has been confirmed, the supplier will arrange for shipping, and you will receive a tracking number. Shipping from China to other countries can take anywhere from 7 to 30 days, depending on the shipping method and location.

While buying from 1688 may seem straightforward, there are many potential obstacles and risks involved. For example, communication can be difficult due to language barriers, and you may need to rely on online translation tools.

Additionally, payment methods and shipping arrangements can be complex and may require special consideration for customs and import regulations.

This is where a China 1688 sourcing agent comes in. A sourcing agent is a professional who specializes in sourcing products from China and helping buyers navigate the buying process.

A sourcing agent can provide a range of services, including product sourcing, supplier selection, quality control, and shipping. By hiring a sourcing agent, you can save time and money, minimize risks, and ensure that your products are of the highest quality.

Here are some of the advantages of hiring a China 1688 sourcing agent:

  1. Language and cultural differences

A sourcing agent who is based in China and speaks the local language can communicate with suppliers effectively, avoid misunderstandings, and negotiate better prices.

  1. Quality control

A sourcing agent can inspect the products and ensure that they meet your quality standards before they are shipped.

  1. Payment and shipping

A sourcing agent can arrange payment and shipping on your behalf, ensuring that the products are delivered to you on time and in good condition.

  1. Cost savings

A sourcing agent can help you find the best products at the most competitive prices, and negotiate better deals with suppliers.

  1. Risk management

A sourcing agent can help you mitigate risks, such as product defects, shipping delays, and customs issues.

In conclusion, 1688 offers a vast range of products at wholesale prices, but buying from the platform can be challenging for buyers outside of China. By hiring a China 1688 sourcing agent, you can save time, and money.