Top 10 Questions New Clients Ask About Sourcing from China

Sourcing products from China can be a game-changer for businesses looking to reduce costs and scale quickly. But if you're new to the process, it's normal to have questions. As a professional sourcing company, we've helped hundreds of clients navigate the complexities of importing from China—and we've noticed that certain questions come up again and again.

In this post, we're sharing the top 10 questions new clients ask about sourcing from China, along with clear answers that will help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

1. How Do I Find a Reliable Supplier in China?

Finding a reliable supplier is the foundation of successful sourcing. While platforms like Alibaba or Made-in-China can help you discover suppliers, a sourcing company can verify factories, negotiate terms, and ensure product quality. We help by conducting factory audits, checking business licenses, and evaluating supplier performance before any deal is made.

2. What Are the Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)?

MOQs vary greatly depending on the product and manufacturer. For example, a plastic item may have an MOQ of 500 pieces, while an electronic product may require 2,000 units. As a sourcing company, we help negotiate lower MOQs when possible and identify factories that are flexible, especially for startups or small batch runs.

3. How Much Does It Cost to Source from China?

The total cost includes:

• Product cost

• Shipping and freight

• Duties and taxes

• Sourcing service fees (if applicable)

• Customization or packaging costs

We provide a transparent quotation that includes all estimated costs so you can calculate your landed price and profit margin accurately.

4. How Do I Ensure the Product Quality?

Quality assurance is key when sourcing overseas. We recommend a multi-step process:

• Pre-production sampling

• In-line inspections during manufacturing

• Final inspection before shipment

Our team can arrange third-party quality control checks and even do random inspections to ensure your product meets your expectations.

5. Can I Customize the Product or Packaging?

Yes, most manufacturers offer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) or ODM (Original Design Manufacturing) services. Whether you want custom logos, unique colors, or special packaging, we help coordinate customization, communicate with the factory, and manage all technical requirements.

6. How Long Does Production and Shipping Take?

Typical lead times:

• Production: 15–45 days depending on complexity and order size

• Shipping:

  • Air freight: 5–10 days

  • Sea freight: 25–45 days

  • Rail (to Europe): 18–25 days

We provide accurate lead time estimates and help you choose the best shipping method for your timeline and budget.

7. Do I Need to Worry About Import Duties or Taxes?

Yes, duties and taxes depend on your country and the product's HS code (customs code). We help by:

• Identifying the correct HS code

• Estimating taxes and customs fees

• Preparing shipping and customs documents

Working with a sourcing company minimizes the risk of delays or penalties during customs clearance.

8. How Do I Pay the Supplier Safely?

There are several payment options, including:

• Bank transfer (T/T) – most common

• PayPal – safer but higher fees

• Letter of Credit (L/C) – for large orders

• Trade assurance platforms – adds a layer of security

We ensure payment terms are clearly outlined and help facilitate secure transactions, especially for first-time importers.

9. What Happens If There Are Problems with the Order?

Mistakes can happen—wrong specifications, damaged goods, or delays. That's why working with a sourcing company adds a layer of protection. We:

• Mediate with the supplier

• Negotiate compensation or replacements

• Take responsibility for resolving issues quickly and fairly

You're not left to navigate the problem on your own.

10. Can You Help Me Source Any Type of Product?

Yes, we specialize in sourcing a wide range of products across categories like home goods, apparel, electronics, toys, accessories, fitness products, and more. Whether you're looking for a trending item or need help finding a niche manufacturer, we have the network and expertise to make it happen.

Sourcing from China Made Simple

Sourcing from China doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right partner by your side, you can navigate the process smoothly, avoid common pitfalls, and get your products delivered on time and within budget.

At Market Union, we provide end-to-end sourcing solutions, from supplier selection and negotiation to quality control and shipping. Whether you're an Amazon seller, brand owner, or wholesaler, our goal is to help you succeed.

Have more questions about sourcing from China?
Contact us today and let's start building your supply chain with confidence.