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6 November 2026

Importing from China for the first time: the steps

The main steps of a first import from China, from finding a supplier to getting the goods delivered.

Importing from China can give your business better prices, but a first order has a few steps you should know about.

1. Know exactly what you need

Write down the product, the quantity, the quality you expect and your budget. Clear details get you clearer prices.

2. Find suppliers you can trust

There are many suppliers for most products. Compare more than one, and ask for photos, samples or references before you pay.

3. Agree the price and the terms

Agree the price, the quantity, when the goods will be ready and how payment works. Get it in writing.

4. Check the quality before it ships

It is much easier to fix a problem before the goods leave China than after they arrive.

5. Arrange shipping and delivery

Decide how the goods will travel and who handles each step until they reach you.

Do it yourself, or let us handle it

If you want to learn to do this yourself, our Made in China Importation StarterKit shows you how.

If you would rather we handle it from sourcing to delivery, request a quote.

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