1688 VS Alibaba: Unlock The Best Importing Solutions

Which one is better in 1688 vs Alibaba? 

Many Chinese online platforms provide so many options that making a choice can be tricky. There is not a simple answer, but it needs a detailed comparison. Our Alibaba expert has compiled this comparison to understand Alibaba alternatives. You get a backup outsourcing option as a business owner. 

Alibaba has more international suppliers and better English support. Yet 1688 has low prices with local suppliers, and most don’t understand English. You need to hire a local sourcing agent for quality inspection and negotiation for 1688. 

Don’t stop and keep learning about both Alibaba and 1688.

What Is 1688.com

Founded in 1999, 1688.com is an online marketplace for B2B companies in China. This seller’s store is not familiar to most of our fellow citizens for this single reason.

Most of the suppliers and sellers of the site are Chinese. The store itself focuses on the Chinese domestic market. Chinese businessmen with export licenses work here.

The site 1688.com is one of the official services of the Alibaba Group. The concept was to help Chinese businesspeople wholesale their products within the country.

1688 is a fantastic procurement site that provides some of the lowest local Chinese prices. It is China’s most comprehensive shopping portal and most comprehensive business platform. The manufacturer’s site is closer and covers an array of topics, including:

• Industrial equipment
• Supplies of raw materials
• Department shops for home
• Apparel
• Smallgoods
• Supply services

Suggested reading: 25 Best 1688 Agents Help You Buy From 1688

Suggested reading: How To Buy From 1688: The Ultimate Guide

1. Pros of 1688.com

• The Hidden Gems

Only a tiny percentage of registered businesses are listed on Alibaba.com. If you have access to 1688, you’ll be able to find suppliers that your competitors don’t have. There are a variety of reasons why these suppliers choosing not to be on the world’s largest B2B platform:

1) They have factories on the mainland that they don’t need to look for worldwide clients elsewhere.

2) They do not have any English-speaking employees.

3) They don’t have an export license. This does not imply that all providers use only these platforms. Some do not use either and are doing perfectly.

• Fast Responses 

The 1688.com mobile app is a fantastic responsive software far superior to its international equivalent. There is no English assistance, which is the main drawback.

The reason is that the labor costs are low. Still, most suppliers have a group of salespeople on high alert and ready to reply in seconds. If you plan to buy from 1688, you can expect a fast response.

• Great for Sub-suppliers and Complex Projects

1688.com might be the best alternative if you’re in charge of a more sophisticated sourcing process. With several sub-suppliers shipping semi-finished items to the same assembly address.

1688.com can resolve problems by taking orders from a fellow domestic manufacturer or domestic market.

• Transaction Protection 

There are various transaction protection systems available on the site. So, when ordering goods here, you do not have to worry about the security of the transferred funds.

2. Cons of 1688.com

• Not Ideal for International Clients

1688 primarily caters to the domestic market. So, suppliers often have difficulties dealing with international buyers. Many of them LACK KNOWLEDGE of the responsibilities and costs of international trade. Nor the formalities of contracts across borders. 

To overcome this challenge, you need to find a reliable 1688 agent. That happens to be LeelineSoucing.

Our company is the best 1688 agent to help you buy bulk from 1688. We don’t impose huge MOQs. Our services are not just limited to medium and big businesses. We also love serving small business owners even with a LIMITED BUDGET. 

For a small fee, that’s as little as $100. You may now source the trendiest product in 1688! 

• Falls Short on Product Quality

If we’re talking about quality, 1688 is far behind Alibaba and other e-commerce platforms. Some suppliers DO NOT NEED to set their quality standards that high. After all, the platform was designed to serve China’s domestic market. 

However, you can still find HIDDEN GEMS in 1688. Only if you work with China’s best quality control and inspection agent. It is none other than LeelineSourcing.

We proudly have quality control checklists. Essential in ensuring TOP-NOTCH product quality. Expect your products to exceed ISO standards. Helping you satisfy clients around the world!

What Is Alibaba.com?

Alibaba.com is one of the most famous online Chinese market and the largest wholesale website.

For the most part, on Alibaba, you can buy retail or wholesale goods from manufacturers from China. But there are also offers from companies from Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and India.

Alibaba is the world’s largest international business trade website. The vendors in this area are reliable. It is a supplier verification program that secures payments through its payment platform.

One of its main advantages is the convenience of Trade Assurance’s payment choices. Payment options include PayPal, credit cards, and financing options for US residents.

1. Pros of Alibaba.com 

• Wide Product Variety

Alibaba offers millions of products from suppliers spanning AROUND THE WORLD. So, whether you’re a business owner looking to buy products in bulk. Or you’re just someone on the hunt for something unique. Alibaba is an ocean of options that have you covered.

It’s not just the HUGE SELECTION that sets Alibaba apart from 1688. It’s the variety and depth of over 40+ product categories available on the platform. Providing you with UNLIMITED product choices to GROW your business.

Having tons of products to choose from can be intimidating.

If you only want to SELL profitable and popular items. LeelineSourcing can help! We analyze product and market trends. And your competitors. Helping you shortlist WINNING products that result in FAST ROI. 

• Robust Supplier Verification Processes

Alibaba takes your security and trust seriously with its Suppliers’ Verification Program. It’s an in-depth verification of how to CREDIBLE and RELIABLE each supplier. Starting from their manufacturing customization, industry specialty, and brand. 

Guarantee that every product you purchase will come from an Alibaba-verified supplier. Who EXCEEDS the platform’s strict quality standards. This will help you meet customer expectations and boost sellers’ reputation.

• Trade Assurance Through Escrow

Alibaba further adds an extra layer of protection with its escrow service. You don’t need to worry about losing your hard-earned money when sourcing products online. Alibaba acts as a MIDDLEMAN. Holding onto your payment as you wait for your products to be delivered. 

In short, it protects you from getting SCAMMED and receiving SUBPAR products. You get quality assurance and fair online transactions.

2. Cons of Alibaba.com

• Relatively Pricier

Alibaba focuses on FOREIGN MARKETS. Where customers typically have a HIGHER purchasing power and DEMAND better quality. So, it’s common to see higher prices for many products. Many sellers tweak their prices to match the expectations.

The minimum order quantity is also tailored to international clients. If you’re a Chinese local trying to compare prices, you might want to request a quotation first.

• Mobile App is Not Optimized

Many users find Alibaba’s app extremely frustrating. From recurring glitches to slow loading times, it’s enough to make anyone’s head spin! 

Half of the time, the search button also doesn’t work. Making it HARD to find and purchase products you actually want. This adds to the overall frustration and results in a poor customer experience.

Suggested reading: Best 30 Sourcing Websites

Suggested reading: Best 10 Alibaba Inspection Service Companies

Similarities Between 1688.com And Alibaba.com

1688.com and Alibaba definitely have their key differences and UNIQUE features. 

But it can’t be denied that these e-commerce platforms have similar business models. Let’s discuss why they’re more similar than you may think. 

1. Owned by Alibaba Group

Both Alibaba and 1688.com are owned by the Alibaba group. It was initially led by Jack Ma, one of the richest people worldwide. 

These e-commerce platforms were launched in 1999. The EXACT year their parent company was also founded. 

You guessed it– these platforms weren’t meant to be competitors. They offered almost the EXACT SAME SERVICE. 1688 simply targeted the Chinese market. While Alibaba primarily caters to international buyers. 

2. Multiple Sellers

1688.com and Alibaba function alike as marketplaces for many suppliers. Simply put, they’re not the ACTUAL manufacturers of products. 

That’s precisely why you’ll find many Chinese suppliers within these two platforms. They have varying product pricing, MOQs, product offerings, and manufacturing processes.

Almost EVERY big Chinese manufacturer in China has made their name known. As the best Chinese manufacturers on Alibaba and 1688. All with the same goal. Explore international business opportunities, find partnered companies, and EARN more money. 

3. Negotiable Prices

The BEST part about buying from either 1688.com or Alibaba is the chance to HAGGLE prices. Yes–you can get lower prices and avoid LARGE MOQ through negotiation. 

It might just be a LITTLE difficult sometimes, though. As many suppliers only know the Chinese language. And others aren’t TOO FOND of entertaining an international buyer. 

Pro tip: Always mention that you’re in the process of finding the CHEAPEST supplier. Sellers will be more likely to offer GOOD PRICES. Otherwise, they’ll lose you to a competitor. 

4. Fraud Detection Measures

1688 is a subsidiary of Alibaba. So, it’s no surprise that both companies present robust fraud detection measures. They secure a safe trading environment for both buyers and sellers. 

These measures include supplier verification, transaction monitoring, and a feedback system. Both Alibaba and 1688 ALSO have a unique website feature. Which allows you to sort verified suppliers from those that are not. So the chances of you getting scammed are PRETTY LOW.

1688 VS. Alibaba: Detailed Comparison

Alibaba and 1688 may have the same roots. But their business models aren’t exactly the same. Let’s dive deeper and compare each site to determine which platform best suits you.

1. Target Audience

This is the PRIMARY difference between 1688 and Alibaba. Having a completely OPPOSITE target audience. 

1688

1688.com is catered specifically for domestic buyers. Which is why the ENTIRE site is written in Chinese. Most buyers on this platform are LOCALS. If you try to communicate using English, some suppliers can come off as UNFRIENDLY. 

Alibaba

On the FLIP SIDE, Alibaba was meant to be a sturdy bridge. Specifically for international businesses to PURCHASE from China wholesalers 24/7. Its LAUNCH was revolutionary, as it makes cheap product procurement easier and safer. Both for BIG and smaller businesses. 

Alibaba hosts multiple international payment methods. Plus, many suppliers are COMFORTABLE with accommodating English-written requests, concerns, or questions. 

2. Language Accessibility and Location

1688

As mentioned, the 1688 website is EXCLUSIVELY written in the Chinese language. Sure–you can use the Google Translate extension to convert the site to English. But that feature is all Google’s magic. Not 1688’s direct efforts to break the language barrier for international buyers. 

If you really want to access 1688’s cheap and broad product collection. The BEST approach is to work with the best 1688 agents like Leelinesourcing. 

As locals, we’re on better terms with China-based suppliers. We represent your business in helping you SOURCE the products you need. For prices LOWER than you might’ve expected! 

Alibaba

Alibaba revolves around bringing China’s ULTRA-CHEAP products to international businesses. So, the SITE has extremely flexible communication tools. With the option to use MULTIPLE LANGUAGES. Contact suppliers from all over the world!

Pro tips: When communicating with sellers. Try to use FORMAL language. Don’t act like the seller’s friend. But rather, a potential business partner. This way, you won’t offend sellers, and you can get better deals.

3. Product Quality and Options

1688

1688 is renowned for having LARGER quantities of product selection. However, when it comes to product quality– due diligence is a MUST when using this platform. Many 1688 reviews indicate that not all 1688 suppliers produce authentic products. And, it’s not uncommon in domestic trade for KNOCKOFFS to still sell well.

Alibaba

Alibaba puts more effort into ensuring the QUALITY AND STANDARDS of its products. The supplier verification processes are usually stricter. It’s also easy to check sellers’ previous sales, ratings, and other KPIs. Making it easy to spot fraudulent sellers. 

Pro tip: Always ask for product samples from Alibaba when possible. It’s the best way to ENSURE you’ll get the promised quality from the seller. 

Hiring a procurement agent is KEY to guaranteeing high product quality. 

We at LeelineSouring conduct EXTENSIVE quality inspection services. BEFORE paying your suppliers. Only spend every cent on the products that’ll UPHOLD your reputation. 

4. Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) 

1688

Sellers in 1688 often had lower MOQ requirements. After all, local buyers typically buy LESS often. As it’s EASY to restock when manufacturers only need to deliver domestically. 

Alibaba

The Alibaba MOQ is usually higher. It takes more effort from the sellers’ end to SHIP goods. And it’s not EFFICIENT to handle the complexities of international shipping. (MULTIPLE TIMES) 

Of course, though–every seller is different. It’s not that uncommon for SOME Alibaba suppliers to have little to no MOQs. The search bar filter is also handy in finding LOW-MOQ sellers. 

Heads up: Lower MOQs typically correlate with getting higher per-unit costing. If you have the BUDGET for it. You don’t always have to fear HIGH MOQ requirements. 

5. Payment Methods

1688

Alipay account is the GO-TO payment option of 1688. But it also caters to Chinese credit card payments and wire transfers. And popular e-wallets in China, such as WeChat Pay. 

The bad news is that most of these payment options aren’t popular among international buyers. Which can give foreigners a bit of a headache when buying from the platform.  

Alibaba

There are at least a dozen Alibaba payment methods. Making it ULTRA EASY and efficient for buyers to buy from the platform. Wherever in the world they may be! 

You can opt for the classic PayPal, online transfers, or credit card payment methods. However, payment gateways like e-checking and Alibaba Pay Letter are also available. 

6. User Interface 

When it comes to the USER INTERFACE. Alibaba and 1688 are neck-and-neck. But that’s not so surprising when we consider that BOTH websites are under the same company. 

In both platforms, products are organized into specific categories. The search bar filters are VERY HANDY. Letting you find the exact item you need without spending hours in confusion. 

Both platforms are also VISUALLY appealing. With a great balance between graphics and text. Making their platforms very easy to navigate. 

The only DOWNSIDE of 1688, though, is, again, the language barrier. The website only operates in Chinese. But with the help of Google Translate. Foreigners can figure out how to buy from 1688.

7. Pricing and Price Transparency

1688 

1688 typically has the LOWEST PRICES among eCommerce platforms. It exclusively targets the Chinese market. Which is ALWAYS teeming with affordable manufacturers and suppliers. 

The competition is HARSH. So, prices typically stay lower. 

The 1688 website is also relatively MORE TRANSPARENT with its prices. Stores clearly dictate the prices of each item. Whether negotiations are open for international shipping. 

Expert tip: You should still try to negotiate prices when using 1688. Sometimes, sellers are more than happy to give discounts. Just remember to use the Chinese language through Google Translate. Or by contacting a translator. 

Cassin Dong, China Sourcing Agent

Alibaba

When buying from Alibaba, sellers often take on a MORE VAGUE pricing approach. Prices you see on the listing are typically in the broader range. So, contacting the sellers directly is necessary to get accurate price quotations. 

Some find this a hassle. But, honestly, this makes it easier for buyers to NEGOTIATE prices or MOQs. 

Here’s the thing…

Foreigners typically get HIGHER quotations. Since they often don’t know much about the trends in product prices in China. The best way to lower product procurement costs is to work with LeelineSourcing. 

8. Customer Support 

1688

1688 primarily offers customer support through chat and email. But be warned that the process WON’T be easy. Since the site expects only to offer its services to China-based businesses. Its customer support is also only in Chinese. 

There’ll be lots of translating back and forth when contacting 1688’s customer support. Based on our clients’ stories, this can take up way more of your time than expected. 

The best way to RESOLVE 1688-related issues is to partner with LeelineSourcing. We assure ACCURACY in relaying your issues to the platform. Helping you achieve the DESIRED SOLUTIONS to your problems.

In fact, we even make it possible for you to NEVER encounter 1688 issues. If you work with us in the first place! 

Alibaba

Alibaba offers more STREAMLINED customer support to its customers. It has English-speaking staff who can accommodate your concerns. Through chat, emails, and maybe even phone calls. 

You don’t need to worry about your concerns getting unattended. Alibaba handles every inch of your issues seamlessly. 

Differences In Shipping Method & Cost

1. Shipping Methods

Alibaba

Alibaba offers VARIOUS international shipping methods. Including Express, ePacket, air, and ocean freight. Suppliers often favor UPS, FedEx, TNT, or DHL for QUICKER DELIVERY. However, it’s on the pricier side. 

But if you want the cheap option, opt for sea freight instead. Just be sure your LOAD gets added protection. Unforeseen events like rough handling can sometimes happen.

1688

1688, on the other hand, offers options like EMS, FCL, LCL, Postal Services, and DHL. Sea freight is also the GO-TO for 1688 clients. However, for international transactions, customers need to outsource to sourcing agents. Due to the platform’s restriction on the Chinese Yuan.

2. Shipping Cost

1688 

1688 shipping costs WIDELY vary depending on various factors. Such as the supplier, their shipping partners, and your location. 

But again, keep this in mind. Some sellers don’t even entertain the thought of international shipping at all. 

Pro tip: Always ask questions about the shipping cost. When negotiating with 1688 suppliers. Sourcing cheaper products won’t exactly save you a lot of money. If you end up spending DOUBLE the expenses on shipping. 

Alibaba

Alibaba shipping costs typically ENCOMPASS all the expenses related to shipping your products. Including the local transport, export clearance, freight cost, and insurance. 

Similar to 1688–Alibaba’s shipping costs vary a lot. But, they’re typically VERY REASONABLE and can be negotiated. Alibaba sellers are EXPERTS in international shipping. 

Wanna know how to get the BEST shipping rates?

As always, contacting Chinese agents to do the job for you is key. It’s all about networks and connections with shipping lines. And here at LeelineSourcing, that’s exactly our expertise.

Pro tip: Alibaba DDP shipping can also help you SAVE money as a buyer. This agreement puts responsibilities of exportation expenses on the seller. 

Dropshipping Reviews Between Alibaba VS. 1688

China was the birthplace of dropshipping. Alibaba operates four leading websites for those new to the industry.

In terms of dropshipping, we’ll compare Alibaba vs 1688. Alibaba International Station, 1688, Aliexpress, and Taobao are all part of it.

• Reviews in Dropshipping from Alibaba

Alibaba is like 1688, and it caters to a global audience. The Chinese manufacturers account for half of the total, while foreign trade services account for the other half.

The price is likewise low, but you must meet specific most minor order quantities. Because production time is required, this is best suited for large enterprises with large inventories.  It is not ideal for dropshipping. In my experience, Alibaba is only ideal for bulk or small business sourcing. 

• Reviews in Dropshipping from 1688

It might be a challenge for you to browse and read products on 1688 due to no English support. For dropshipping specifics, communication with suppliers may take some time.

For your dropshipping business, you get the lower prices. You may compare the texture and quality to ensure a decent supplier.

You will need to pay for the products through a sourcing agent. Yet, the advantage of 1688 dropshipping is the wholesale pricing of higher-quality items. 

You must pay for the agency fee, interests, and local and international shipping. It is because the cost of dropshipping is higher. My dropshipping stores use Aliexpress suppliers which are cheaper and more versatile. 

How Do You Find The Best Chinese Sourcing Agents?

Finding the BEST Chinese sourcing agents for your BIZ is easier than you think. The KEY is for you to consider ALL your sourcing needs, including factors such as:

• Your store’s niche 
• Which products do you need to source
• How much you’re willing to spend
• How often do you plan on importing products
• Your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)

Start your SOURCING AGENT hunt once you have these pieces of information in mind. Search online, use social media platforms, or use online directories. 

Shortlist at least three sourcing agents with a STELLAR reputation. Tell them about your store by mentioning the FACTORS listed above. And get a quotation for a SAMPLE sourcing batch from each agent. 

By then, which supplier is BEST for your eCommerce needs should be pretty clear. 

Expert tip: Don’t be afraid to ask your AGENT questions along the way. A good sourcing agent MUST be an eCommerce expert. Willing to provide you with all the resources they can to help you succeed. 

Guoxin Chen, Sourcing Agent from China

But let me share a SHORTCUT. Skip yourself the trouble and drop LeelineSourcing a quick call. We’re experts in working with small to medium enterprises. You won’t need to worry about large MOQs, budget constraints, or paperwork hassles! 

We have 10 years of reputation backing our company up. We’re one contact away!

People Also Ask About Alibaba VS. 1688

What’s Next

1688 and Alibaba are two of the BIGGEST e-commerce platforms. Trusted by entrepreneurs worldwide. Although both companies share the same roots. Their difference significantly varies in their business model. So, when deciding which platform suits your business better. Dig deep into their features, functionalities, and target markets. 

Want to source on these platforms but not sure how?

Contact LeelineSouricing! We have the best agents in Alibaba and 1688. Guarantee to source the most profitable items for your business, All for the LOWEST COST!

Source:

1. activities.Alibaba.com – About Alibaba.com
2. Alibabagroup.com – 1688:  Largest integrated domestic wholesale marketplace in China
3. tradeassurance.Alibaba.com – Enjoy protection from payment to delivery on Alibaba.com