Eager to procure products from China at unbeatable prices? 1688.com stands out as one of the top platforms for sourcing. Often referred to as the domestic Alibaba, this extensive online marketplace is a hub where Chinese manufacturers and suppliers sell goods at wholesale prices. While it’s a treasure trove for product sourcing, its usability can pose challenges, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Chinese language. The good news? We’re here to simplify the process for you.
This comprehensive guide will take you step-by-step through the essentials of sourcing from 1688.com, giving you the confidence to embark on your sourcing venture successfully.
What is 1688.com?
1688.com is owned by Alibaba Group and primarily caters to the Chinese domestic market. Unlike Alibaba.com, which focuses on international buyers, 1688.com offers products at even lower prices because it’s designed for local businesses in China.
The catch? The platform is entirely in Chinese, and many sellers don’t have experience dealing with international buyers. However, with a little effort and the right tools, you can still source high-quality products and save big on costs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sourcing from 1688.com
1. Set Up Translation Tools
Since 1688.com is in Chinese, you’ll need a translation tool to navigate the website. Google Chrome’s built-in translator works well for translating the entire webpage into English. Alternatively, you can use apps like Google Translate to translate specific text or communicate with suppliers.
Pro Tip: If you’re serious about sourcing from 1688.com long-term, consider hiring a native Chinese speaker or working with an agent who can assist with communication.
2. Create an Account
To start sourcing, you’ll need to create an account on 1688.com. Here’s how:
- Visit the website (www.1688.com) and click on the “Register” button (注册).
- Fill out the registration form using your phone number or email address.
- Verify your account through the code sent to your phone or email.
Once your account is set up, you’re ready to start browsing!
3. Search for Products
The search bar on 1688.com is your best friend. You can search for products using keywords in Chinese or upload images of items you’re looking for. If you don’t know Chinese, use Google Translate to find the Chinese translation of your product keywords.
例えば、こうだ：
- Type “手机壳” (phone case) instead of “phone case” to get better results.
- Use the image search feature if you have a photo of the product you want to source.
4. Evaluate Suppliers
Not all suppliers are created equal, so take time to evaluate them carefully:
- Ratings and Reviews: Check the supplier’s ratings and customer reviews to gauge their reliability.
- Years in Business: Suppliers with more years of experience are generally more trustworthy.
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): Make sure their MOQ aligns with your needs. Some suppliers may require bulk orders, while others may offer smaller quantities.
Pro Tip: Look for suppliers with a “Gold Supplier” badge or high transaction volume for added credibility.
5. Communicate with Suppliers
Once you’ve found a potential supplier, reach out to them to ask questions about pricing, shipping options, lead times, and product customization (if needed). Most suppliers prefer communicating via Alibaba’s messaging system or popular Chinese apps like WeChat or Aliwangwang (阿里旺旺).
If language is a barrier, use translation tools or work with a sourcing agent who can handle communication on your behalf.
6. Negotiate Prices
One of the biggest advantages of sourcing from 1688.com is the opportunity to negotiate prices. Many suppliers are open to price discussions, especially if you’re placing a large order. Be polite but firm during negotiations and try to establish a win-win relationship.
7. Arrange Shipping
Shipping can be one of the trickiest parts of sourcing from 1688.com because most sellers don’t offer international shipping. Here are two common solutions:
- フレイト・フォワーダーを利用する: Work with a freight forwarding company that can handle international shipping for you. They’ll collect your order from the supplier and ship it to your country.
- Hire a Sourcing Agent: A sourcing agent can handle everything from purchasing and quality checks to shipping logistics, making the process much smoother for you.
Pro Tip: Always confirm shipping costs and delivery timelines before placing an order to avoid surprises later.
8. Place Your Order
Once you’ve finalized all details with your supplier—pricing, MOQ, shipping method—it’s time to place your order! Most transactions on 1688.com are processed through Alipay (Alibaba’s payment platform), which provides buyer protection for added security.
Tips for Success on 1688.com
- 小さく始める: If you’re new to sourcing from China, start with small orders to test product quality and supplier reliability before committing to larger purchases.
- Check Samples: Always request product samples before placing a bulk order to ensure the quality meets your expectations.
- Understand Customs: Research import regulations and customs duties in your country to avoid unexpected costs when your shipment arrives.
- Be Patient: Sourcing from 1688.com can be a learning curve, but it’s worth it once you get the hang of it!
Should You Use a Sourcing Agent?
If navigating 1688.com feels too daunting or time-consuming, consider working with a sourcing agent who specializes in Chinese markets. They can help with everything from finding reliable suppliers and negotiating prices to handling shipping and customs clearance. While this adds an extra cost, it can save you time and reduce potential risks.
最終的な感想
Sourcing from 1688.com is a fantastic way to access high-quality products at unbeatable prices, but it does require some effort and research upfront. By following this guide and taking advantage of translation tools or professional help when needed, you’ll be well on your way to building strong supplier relationships and scaling your business successfully.
So go ahead—explore the endless possibilities on 1688.com and take your sourcing game to the next level! Happy sourcing!
