What sourcing means
China sourcing means finding and purchasing products or manufacturing services from suppliers in China. A supplier may be a factory, a trading company, or an intermediary. Your job is to understand what each party provides and how it fits your project.
Write a product brief
Describe the materials, dimensions, finish, packaging, quantity, and intended use. Include reference drawings or examples when helpful. Clear specifications make quotations easier to compare and give you a basis for reviewing samples.
Write down what this means for your own business. Keep questions and assumptions beside your plan so you can check them before you commit.
Research potential suppliers
Check the identity and capabilities of the businesses you contact. Ask who will manufacture the goods and whether any work is subcontracted. Compare communication, relevant experience, and the evidence behind claims instead of choosing only by quoted price.
Samples before scale
Request samples and document what you accept or want changed. Keep an approved reference sample and written specifications. A sample helps assess the product, but production still needs its own checks.
Calculate the full cost
Consider tooling, unit prices, packaging, inspection, freight, insurance, and destination charges. Minimum order quantities and payment timing also affect cash flow. Confirm which costs and responsibilities are included in each quotation.
Quality and delivery planning
Agree inspection points, defect criteria, packing requirements, and how issues will be handled. Confirm lead times and shipping responsibilities in writing. Check product and import requirements for your destination with qualified specialists before committing.
Begin with a controlled order
Where practical, use a smaller initial order to test the working relationship. Record changes, retain approvals, and review the delivered goods before increasing volume. Sourcing is an ongoing process of checking and communicating, not just locating a low price.