How To Buy From 1688: The Ultimate Guide

Have you purchased from 1688.com before? If not, it may be the right time to buy inventory. When purchasing, you need to focus on crucial points for the purchasing process.

Based on ten years of sourcing experience, we have dealt with many such cases and helped customers wholesale and find high-quality suppliers. Do you know the details before meticulous research for many suppliers in 1688? It points to safe and secure trading by discussing product specifications and pricing.

Today, we will comprehensively discuss the buying process from 1688.

What Is 1688.com?

1688 is Alibaba’s brainchild – a B2B directory for Chinese domestic wholesalers.

It was founded in 1999. And two decades later, 1688 has grown to be the LARGEST B2B wholesale platform in China.

Just to clear out the air before we dive deeper. 1688 is actually VERY safe.

That’s because suppliers MUST obtain a government license to sell on the Chinese website. (more on that later!).

What to expect on 1688.com?

High-quality products in ANY category you can think of. From industrial products, household supplies, raw materials, and garments, NAME IT!!

Sorry, it sounds like I’m overselling it. But that’s just the truth. 1688 is one of the BEST Chinese e-commerce platforms out there. You’ll see in a bit.

Now to the big question…

Is 1688.com legit and safe?

ABSOLUTELY, 100%.

Just like I said in the previous section. Suppliers are ONLY allowed to sell in 1688 if they have a VALID business license. So, you don’t have to worry about a con artist hiding on their website.

Again, product prices are EXTREMELY transparent. No hidden charges! Prices rise according to your purchase volume. Become CHEAPER as you buy in bulk.

1688 has an EFFECTIVE refund policy within 5 – 8 days. You just need a STRONG reason to support your return claim. So, if you get a product that is way below your expectations. Click that refund icon. Get your money back ASAP.

Suggested reading: Sites Like Alibaba : Alibaba Alternative In China

How To Buy From 1688?

Here’s my step-by-step blueprint on how to buy from 1688:

Step 1) Fire Up 1688.com And Translate The Chinese Site To English

Here’s the thing…

The entire 1688’s website is in Chinese language. Hence causing a language barrier if you are a foreign user.

My solution is to use Google Translate. It remodels the website to English in seconds. Now, you can browse the product pages SEAMLESSLY.

Expert Tip: Use Google Chrome Browser to access 1688.com. It translates the webpages way FASTER than other browsers out there.

chindalia sangeeta, Procurement Expert

Now, let’s create your buyer’s account.

Step 2) Sign up for a Buyer Account

This is the EASY part.

On the right side of the website. Click on the “sign up for free” icon to register your new account.

You’ll be redirected to a new page to fill in your CORRECT details.

Google Translate is not ALWAYS effective in this section.

Expert tip: Open Google Translate on a new tab. Change the “Enter Text” to English. And “Translation” to Chinese. Then, type your name and translate it into Chinese. Copy and Paste it into 1688. Repeat for the other sections, too.

Ben Weng, Experienced Merchandising Expert

1.

2.

That’s it.

Now, let’s go to the next level.

Step 3 – all about finding products and suppliers. And there are 3 approaches to this:

• Communicate directly with the Chinese suppliers
• Using a shopping proxy website
• Hiring a purchasing/ buying agent – SAFEST ROUTE

Let’s break that down…

Talk to the supplier on 1688.com

If you’ve been using Alibaba, then you prolly know how this works.

1688 gives you access to the supplier’s mobile number. Or WeChat ID on the products page.

Remember to give clear instructions to the supplier. Things including your budget price, shipping methods, and test samples.

Oh, and don’t forget to ask for quality certification. You know, just to be safe, you won’t end up with counterfeit items.

Pros

• Many suppliers in 1688 sell to domestic buyers. That way, you save more than buying from other eCommerce platforms.
• No need to spend days chatting with a middleman. Bypass that C*** and talk to the Chinese manufacturer personally. Hence, even more, AFFORDABLE prices

Cons

• Language barrier. Many suppliers aren’t fluent in English. Just keep it simple and respectful at all times.
• Most suppliers don’t have international payment methods like PayPal. Thus, you need to find local payment methods that are convenient for both parties.

Use a shopping proxy website

The EASIEST way to understand a shopping proxy. Is to think of them as your personal shoppers.

A personal shopper purchases items from the store on your behalf. You don’t need to walk to the store.

Shopping proxy websites have the same business model. Just that this is done ENTIRELY online.

They take care of the shopping process. From purchasing packaging to the FINAL delivery. Pretty cool, right?

Common shopping proxy websites include Superbuy and Yoybuy.

Just give the product link or description to the proxy website. Let them do the magic.

Pros

• Makes the shopping process EASIER. You save more time to focus on other income-generating activities.
• Flexible payment methods for international customers. That includes Credit Cards and PayPal.

Cons

• No guarantee of quality products. Shopping proxy websites DO NOT check the quality or quantity of products delivered.
• They DON’T help you source for products or suppliers

Here are some previous buyer reviews on Superbuy:

Check out the full review here.

Another buyer said:

Source: Reddit.

Expert Tip: Review the proxy’s website policies to avoid unnecessary charges.

Hiring a Purchasing Agent

This is the BEST way to find HIGH-QUALITY products from 1688.com

They work similarly to shopping proxy websites. But have WAY BETTER additional perks.

Don’t know where to find one? You are in luck because Leeline Sourcing offers PREMIUM sourcing services in the region. 

We find suppliers with competitive prices. Rest easy knowing that your cash is in safe hands. Products are TOP-NOTCH. 

Our teams THOROUGHLY inspect the products to ascertain no counterfeits. Finally, consolidate shipping to reduce your shipping costs.

You also get final customized packaging that boosts your brand image. And scales your profit margins MASSIVELY.

Pros

• One-to-one service. Talk to your agent directly and get IMMEDIATE feedback
• No language barriers. Purchasing agents work with clients around the world. We have a diverse customer service team to ensure FLUENT communication

Cons 

• Convenient if you are purchasing in bulk. For instance, bulk purchases for your physical or online store

Leeline Sourcing team is the BEST 1688 Agent out there. They’ll help you find PREMIUM products at the CHEAPEST rates. No need to go through ALL the donkey work of sourcing products alone. EVER.

If you pick the first route. You still have to find the products on your own. Order. Choose from different shipping methods. Make your purchase.

So…

Step 4) Finding Products on 1688

Like I said before, 1688’s website is in Chinese. But you’ve already translated it into English, right?

PERFECT!

So, we’ll use relevant keywords to find products you are interested in.

For instance, say you are interested in the sports category. Particularly men’s sports shoes. Just type in “sports shoes for men” or “men’s sports shoes.”

Alternatively, you can use image search to find products on 1688. Just tap on the tiny little camera icon on the right of the search bar. Upload your preferred image. BAM- you get results in seconds.

Check out the results:

Cool, aye?

Step 5) Pick a Reliable Supplier

If you decide to shop on your own. Then, you need to be EXTRA careful when finding a good supplier.

This will help you avoid supplier delays, poor material quality, and overpriced products.

Here’s our checklist when finding a GOOD supplier:

Oh, and don’t forget to discuss more about the product details. Minimum order quantity. And shipping options the supplier offers.

Remember, the more detailed the description. The less likely you are gonna get finessed.

Quick Tip: Opt for suppliers with HIGH transaction volumes. Dozens of positive reviews to find a CREDIBLE supplier.

Step 6) Verify Your Product’s Authenticity 

This was my BIGGEST challenge when I first got into eCommerce.

My business was growing SO FAST. I needed to find a well-known manufacturer that could handle my bulk orders. Since the previous one was just a middleman (with no bulk production facility).

I was conned multiple times before finding a solid supplier. (lemme not bore you with my sob story)

Here’s what I was doing wrong…

I wasn’t discussing product details with the supplier. I just assumed the description from the product page was enough. Two, I didn’t check for quality certifications (BIG MISTAKE). Three, I didn’t do an in-depth factory inspection (hey, I was still a newbie, right?).

Heck, I didn’t even ask for samples.

I’m serious, 100%.

I get that you can’t do a PROPER in-depth business inspection. Especially if you are a newbie. But there’s no need to worry.

Leeline Sourcing offers the BEST quality control processes in China. We’ll conduct factory audits to ensure the supplier factory meets industry standards. Conduct a RIGOROUS background check to ensure they are LEGIT.

Also, Leeline Sourcing does a pre-production inspection to ensure QUALITY is adhered to!

Quick Tip: Authenticating products is the hard part. You can still do it alone. However, having an experienced partner handle the process makes it EASIER. They have more experience in the game. And can pull resources to help you make INFORMED decisions.

Step 7) Place Your Order 

Did the samples meet your requirements? Nice! Now, you can place your order.

Don’t forget to check the contract terms – which include the return policies. Again, discuss additional costs that might arise due to shipping. Or at the custom clearance offices.

I advise my clients to confirm the supplier’s business license export license. Other verification details before making the order.

Step 8) Pick Your Payment Method and Make the Purchase

There are tons of payment methods to choose from. Whether you are a foreign buyer or a local buyer.

I recommend:

• Alipay – allows you to transfer funds from mobile to your Alipay account
• WeChat – used by thousands of Chinese suppliers
• Through a 1688 Agent in China

Quick Tip: Sellers in 1688 ONLY accept RMBs. You need to open a local account to convert your foreign currency to RMB.

I wrote a full detailed guide on the best payment platforms in China for overseas buyers.

Step 9) Choose a RELIABLE Shipping Method

Get this – 1688 is a domestic marketplace. Thus, they ONLY ship around China.

So, you need a freight forwarder that will ship internationally. Regardless of your location.

Shipping has never been this FASTER than with Leeline Sourcing. We have been in this industry for the last decade. And we are TRUSTED by top eCommerce platforms. As one of the BEST freight forwarders in China.

You’re in luck because we offer fully-fledged shipping solutions. You get to choose from Air freight, which guarantees goods in 2 – 5 business days. Sea freight that takes 15 – 40 business days. And Railway freight that takes between 15 – 40 cargo delivery time.

We also offer Express Shipping. That guarantees the arrival of your products in 1-3 business days.

Quick Tip: Don’t just go the the CHEAPEST shipping partner. Prioritize track record, shipping speed, and communication. That way, you don’t end up with shipping delays and other inconveniences.

How to Avoid Scam While Buying From 1688?

Here’s how to avoid scams when buying from 1688:

Avoid the Cheapest Product

One mistake new eCommerce sellers make. It is going after the supplier with such a LOW PRICE in a bid to maximize the profit margins.

99.9% end up getting WACK products that nobody will even buy. The remaining 0.1% gets flooded with refunds and negative reviews. One month later, they are out of business.

I’m not saying go for the MOST expensive one either. Just find one with the best reputation, proper certification, and high sales volume. No Way You Can Lose!

If you find a supplier today. Then get a “BETTER” deal somewhere else. Don’t rush to make a purchase.

Here’s a testimonial from an eCommerce seller:

Expert Tip: Your brand is what other people say about you when you’re not in the room. For e-commerce sellers, it’s crucial to understand that quality matters. Cutting corners on suppliers may save money in the short term but can devastate your brand’s reputation in the long run. – Morgan Huang, Senior Sourcing expert

Source: Reddit.

Always Order Samples

This is just a smart move to make.

Buying samples first gives you an in-depth view of your chosen supplier’s operations. From the product quality. Communication. Delivery and SO MUCH MORE.

Again, a sample shows you are a SERIOUS buyer. That is because most suppliers get thousands of inquiries a day. More than half never show interest again. 

It will give you an edge over other buyers. You get FASTER responses, which is a plus.

Expert Tip: Order samples from multiple suppliers. So you can compare each item side by side. Make a PROPER-informed decision.

Andy Weng, China Sourcing Expert

Write a Detailed Requirement

Don’t screw it up.

Picture this:

Buyer 1:

Hello, 

I'm interested in buying laptop bags from your company. Can you please provide more information?

Thank you.

Buyer 2:

HI, I'm interested in purchasing laptop bags for resale through my ecommerce store. After browsing through your products in 1688, I'm particularly impressed by the quality and design of your laptop bags.

Before making a bulk order, I'd like to request samples of the following laptop bags to assess their quality and suitability for my target market: 

Model: TechTote Pro, Quantity: 1
Model: UrbanCarry 15, Quantity: 1
Model: WorkPack Elite, Quantity: 1

Please ensure that the samples sent are representative of your best-quality products, as I do not wish to receive defective items. Could you please provide me with the pricing for these samples, including any applicable shipping costs to Canada? Additionally, I'm interested in learning more about your minimum order quantities, payment terms, and lead times for bulk orders.

I look forward to your prompt response. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Best regards.

Who’s gonna get accurate results? Yeah, right. The second one is as detailed as possible. From the description to inquiring about the supplier’s mode of operation.

Don’t forget to tell the buyer that you won’t accept counterfeit items. I find this a POLITE way to inform the supplier that you want things done the RIGHT way.

Expert Tip: Insert images of the products you need to avoid any misunderstandings.

Ali Tamoor, Product Sourcing Expert

Do Quality Control

You need to do a pre-inspection when the goods are still at the manufacturer’s factory. And when they leave for the final delivery.

Here, at Leeline Sourcing, we guarantee PROFESSIONAL inspection services.

That includes a during-production inspection to ensure products are up to quality. Pre-production inspection to ascertain that suppliers adhere to ISO standards. And pre-shipment inspection that ensures the RIGHT quantity of items are packed. Ready for shipment.

Here’s our entire quality inspection catalog.

Quick Tip: Always have quality inspection standards and communicate them to your inspection partner. 

Suggested reading: Alibaba Reviews

What To Consider Before Buying From 1688.com?

1. Stock information isn’t always accurate

When you place an order, You have to first confirm with the supplier if the product you want to buy is actually in stock. Most of the time, stock information is about 90% accurate, so you won’t have to worry. Usually, the dropshippers connect with the suppliers and use ePacket shipping. I ask my suppliers whether they use ePacket shipping or not. If they answer Yes, then It creates a huge smile on my face. 

However, certain sellers sell incredibly high volumes of products.

2. Purchase Failures & Invalid Orders

If, when you place an order, you run into a purchase failure, the 1688 website will notify you that your order is out of stock, and you will not be able to add the product to the shopping cart.

If you keep getting “invalid,” search for another supplier and send a brand new order for a similar product.

However, one thing you need to keep in mind is that it can take a couple of days for users to cancel orders. This process is time-consuming that’s why I try to research before placing an order. 

3. Local Shipping Cost Adjustment

Local shipping is when the provider ships products to the LeelineSourcing warehouse. 1688.com will usually adjust domestic transport costs for wholesale orders, depending on the final weight of each shipment.

For every order on 1688.com, We will automatically complete any local shipping with a default amount (15CNY) as its minimum domestic shipping cost (DSC).

This happens since we don’t have a complete picture of the final shipping method. I use third-party agents like Leelinesourcing to handle all Domestic & international shipments. 

4. Don’t buy products that are too heavy or too big in size

One of the most significant downsides of purchasing on 1688 is that you will be penalized in total cost by buying products that are either too heavy or too big in size.

If you want to buy extensive products like large TVs, sectional couches, or bicycles, you must factor in the elevated national shipping charges and international shipping costs. Whenever my products are too heavy, then I use cheap shipping methods. My favorite methods are Rail for National & Sea shipping for international. 

5. Delays and Timing

Most order lead times, on average, can span between 1 and 5 days. A small number of orders can take 5-7 to the whole process.

But it’s important to note that some orders can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 1 month to complete. During busy seasons like November and December, lead times can be delayed by 1 to 3 days.

It could take up to 3-5 more days for local shipping. It often takes over seven days for products to arrive at the LeelineSourcing warehouse once an order has been placed. You can contact us for comprehensive service.

Suggested reading: Best 50 China Wholesale Markets

Useful Tips When You Buy From 1688 In Bulk

1. Check Threshold First

Before you place your order, make sure to check the wholesale rules and threshold for the supplier. This small precaution help me and my clients to avoid confusion and big hassles. 

If your order quantity doesn’t’ meet or exceed the minimum order amount set in place by the supplier, your order will be canceled, and you will need to place a new order.

2. Always pick a “TrustPass” Supplier

With over 50,000 suppliers, 1688 has plenty to choose from, but that doesn’t mean they’re all excellent sellers. Make sure you choose suppliers who have the “TrustPass” badge on their accounts. My first step in the search is using the Trustpass badge filter to avoid any unreliable suppliers. 

They are usually more trustworthy, reliable, and have better quality products. They also typically have a better return policy.

3. Compare suppliers

If you find a good supplier, they have a trust badge, and you can meet the minimum order requirement, don’t place your order just yet.

You should always compare them with other suppliers. My advice is to get many quotes and then compare the pricing or some extent, do negotiations too. 

Look for the best deal or a better supplier. You might be surprised to find a more trustworthy supplier or someone who has better quality or prices.

Suggested reading: How To Buy Direct From China

Suggested reading: Wholesale Electronics from China

How To Pay On 1688?

For many foreign buyers, it’s not convenient to pay on 1688. Due to the different payment systems of 1688, they only accept Alipay and bank cards to pay orders. For direct payment in 1688, you need a Chinese bank card or use Alipay business account 1688 for cross-border payment.

As for transportation, you have two options.

• Option 1: Directly ask the supplier to send the goods to your country, which requires you to communicate with the supplier.

This requires your supplier to speak English or you to speak Chinese. And some suppliers who do not do international trade may reject you because they don’t know anything about international transportation. Paying through Third-party apps with refund options saved me in multiple scenarios. 

• Option 2: You can hire a sourcing agent in China and ask the supplier to send the goods to your forwarder, and then the agent is responsible for transporting your goods from China to your country.

How To Ship Product From 1688?

Shipping from China is way easy than it looks. Although it may require some traveling and delay, the agents 1688.com is associated with are pretty experienced and trustworthy. Two types of shipping methods are there to adopt, Domestic and International shipping.

• Local Shipping:

Within China, you can get your order almost 24 hours after placing and paying for it. Mostly, the shipment is sent through courier or express, which requires 3-4 days t reach its destination. You can also track your shipping with the help of a tracking number assigned before shipment, that when and where shipping will go. In this way, a complete, satisfying procedure is planned by 1688.com for its customers. I track through third-party applications for the right shipping statuses. 

• International Shipping:

Domestic selling and purchasing are easy for Chinese businessmen as they have a Chinese bank account. But international importers may find this situation critical.

Most parties hire a professional agent to place their order and ship at their doorstep. Before importing from China, you should know at least five mainstream different shipping methods to your country so that you can choose the best option for yourself for receiving your shipment in a safe and low-cost process. My favorite option is Sea shipping for cheap shipping. However, I also use Air shipping for High-end time-sensitive products. 

Suggested reading: Best 10 Alibaba Freight Forwarders

How To Warehouse From 1688?

• Consolidation And Customization Of Packages:

The 1688 warehouses are designed for storing the supplying goods with complete care and protection. When sellers send the products like electronic products, 1688 agents store them at the specific warehouses for repackaging or customization to make the shipment ready for the freight forwarder.

The first benefit you get from these warehouses is consolidating your packages. They receive products from a typical supplier and ship them to different countries and customers from other locations. My clients receive direct consolidated shipping, and it saves them from big hassle. 

• Quality Product Inspection:

At warehouses, items and packages are thoroughly checked before shipping them to the buyers’ destination country. Still, you receive a defective piece; you can easily apply for returning it through the same agent. You save shipping costs for defective items like mine. 

How Can I Check A Supplier’s Information?

If you want to verify a supplier and check their information for 1688 dropshipping service, you have to go to their online store on 1688.com:

1. Open up the home page of the vendor.
2. Click “Company.”
3. Click “View Business Registration Information.”
4. View all information regarding the seller’s business registration.
5. You can see their registration date, registered capital, incorporation, and company address.

There I read about supplier and their business information, I pay attention to their registration dates and addresses. 

Suggested reading: Is Alibaba safe and legit?

Suggested reading: Best 20 China Online Shopping Sites to Buy Wholesale

How To Negotiate With 1688 Suppliers?

Have a good understanding of the product before you contact a supplier. That way, you avoid UNNECESSARY spending on features that aren’t helpful.

Again, you need a GOOD understanding of the market price. So, you can avoid getting scammed or overpriced by a supplier.

Can’t do it all alone? No pressure! Our team here at Leeline Sourcing has your back. Our trained professionals have EXCELLENT communication skills. Their experience with multiple suppliers guarantees you the BEST deals in town.

Expert Tip: Establish a mutually beneficial relationship with your supplier. So, you can get the BEST prices in the industry. Say something like increasing your order steadily as trust is built. 

Fowler Wang, Capacity Sourcing Expert

Difference Between 1688.com and Alibaba

1688.com and Alibaba are GREAT eCommerce platforms. 

And although they are run by the same company (Alibaba Group). They have tons of differences.

Here are a few:

I know this is a gross oversimplification. But you can read more about these two Chinese eCommerce giants —- 1688 vs alibaba.

Suggested reading: Alibaba Suppliers

How Can I Complete A Picture Search On 1688?

If you’re comparing suppliers and want to search by one package by image, it can help you save a ton of time without hiring more services. I usually use this method for searching for items from my competitors; it gives a better idea about their sourcing prices. 

Here are the steps to complete a picture search on 1688:

1. The image has a white background
2. There isn’t a duplicate image of the image you are searching for on the page you are searching on.
3. Save the image.
4. Go to 1688 and click on the camera icon beside the search bar.
5. Click the file name of the image you saved.

Keep in mind that this only works on the desktop version of 1688, not the mobile or app versions.

How Do I Translate The 1688.com Website To English?

On Desktop:

1. Download Google Chrome
2. Go to 1688.com
3. Right-click on a blank space on the page.
4. Select “Translate to English” from the options displayed.
5. The page will refresh and appear in English.

While it is pretty simple to translate 1688 to English on the website, the 1688 app makes it very difficult, so you will have to perform a few steps and get 1688.com English version. I found it pretty easy to translate it on desktop and then Mobile. 

On the App:

1. Install both the 1688 app and Google Translate app on your Android device.
2. Open the 1688 app. Search for the item you want (you can still search in English).
3. Scroll down to see the seller’s information.
4. Screenshot the portion of the page you wish to translate.
5. Open Google Translate
6. Click the camera option and import the screenshot.
7. Google translate will scan the photo.
8. You can highlight a Chinese character to translate or select the entire image.
9. Tap the right arrow icon to see the translation

Suggested reading: Made In China VS Alibaba

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Suggested reading: Best 10 Alibaba Inspection Service Companies

FAQs about 1688 com

What’s Next?

If you want to start or expand your online store, 1688.com is one of the most outstanding options available.

If you want to purchase goods from 1688 china in bulk, but you want to skip the frustration of handling the Chinese language, the export complications, or the website, your best option is to find a trusted 1688 sourcing agent, contact Leeline sourcing. You can get the services contact number on our website.