跳转到主要内容 跳转到页脚 
Table of Contents
Welcome international buyers! 1688.com is China’s largest wholesale platform, operated by Alibaba Group. While primarily focused on domestic trade, international buyers can also purchase a wide variety of products at factory-direct prices.
This guide will walk you through every step of the process of shopping on 1688 as an international buyer—from account creation to receiving your goods. Whether you’re a small business owner, reseller, or individual buyer, this tutorial will help you use the platform smoothly and securely.
Why shop on 1688? Millions of products, direct from Chinese manufacturers and suppliers at wholesale prices, with minimum order quantities often lower than other B2B platforms.
1. What is the 1688 platform?
Introduction to the International Buyer Platform
1688.com is China’s largest wholesale marketplace, serving as the domestic equivalent of Alibaba. While initially designed for Chinese businesses, the platform also allows international buyers to purchase products directly from Chinese manufacturers at wholesale prices.
Many Chinese sellers selling on Amazon are looking for sources of goods on 1688.
Key differences: 1688 and Alibaba.com
- 1688.com : Domestic Chinese platform, lower prices, Chinese interface
- Alibaba.com : International platform, English interface, higher prices, but easier for foreigners
- Price advantage : 1688 prices are usually 20-50% lower than Alibaba
- Product categories : 1688 More product options and suppliers
Why international buyers choose 1688
Significant cost savings
- Factory direct price : no middleman markup, direct manufacturer pricing
- Lower minimum order quantities : Many suppliers accept smaller minimum order quantities than Alibaba
- Competitive prices : The price of the same product is 20-50% lower than that of international platforms
Massive product selection
- More than 40 million products : from electronics to fashion, home goods to industrial equipment
- Over 2 million suppliers : Directly connect with Chinese manufacturers and wholesalers
- Latest Trends : Be the first to know about new products and popular items
Product categories popular with international buyers
| category | Hot Items | Typical minimum order quantity | Price advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Mobile phone accessories, gadgets, components | 10-50 pieces | Save 30-60% |
| Fashion and Apparel | Clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry | 20-100 pieces | Save 40-70% |
| Home & Garden | Furniture, decoration, kitchen supplies | 5-50 pieces | Save 25-50% |
| Beauty and Health | Cosmetics, skin care products, supplements | 12-100 pieces | Save 35-65% |
Important considerations for international buyers
- The platform mainly uses Chinese
- Most suppliers have limited English proficiency
- International shipping arrangements required
- Payment methods for overseas buyers may be restricted
- Customer service is primarily provided in Chinese
2.International access requirements
Technical requirements
Internet Connection and VPN Considerations
Website access:
- 1688.com is accessible worldwide without a VPN
- A stable internet connection is recommended for smooth browsing
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android (may require Chinese app store)
- It is recommended to use a desktop browser for the first registration
Browser compatibility
- Recommended browsers : Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- Enable JavaScript : JavaScript is required for full functionality
- Allow Cookies : Required for login and shopping cart
- Translation tools : Highly recommend the Google Translate browser extension
Language barrier solutions
Translation Tools
| tool | type | accuracy | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Translate extension | Browser extensions | 85-90% | General browsing and product descriptions |
| DeepL Translator | Web Services | 90-95% | Important communications with suppliers |
| Baidu Translate | Web Services | 80-85% | Chinese-specific terms and phrases |
| Microsoft Translator | Browser extensions | 80-85% | Real-time page translation |
Key Chinese Shopping Terms
Basic shopping vocabulary:
- 价格 (jiàgé) = Price
- 数量 (shùliàng) = Quantity
- 运费 (yùnfèi) = Shipping fee
- 现货 (xiànhuò) = In stock
- 定制 (dìngzhì) = Customized
- 批发 (pīfā) = Wholesale
- 起订量 (qǐdìngliàng) = Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
- 发货 (fāhuò) = Ship/Deliver
Payment Preparation
Accept payment methods from international buyers
- Alipay International : Supports international credit cards
- Bank transfer : wire transfer to a Chinese bank account
- Third-party services : Superbuy, Wegobuy, CSSBuy (agent service)
- Cryptocurrency : Some vendors accept Bitcoin/USDT (verify legitimacy)
Payment Security Tips
- Never send money via Western Union or MoneyGram
- Avoid suppliers asking for payment to personal accounts
- Use managed services whenever possible
- Keep all payment receipts and transaction records
- Verify the supplier’s business license before making large payments
3. Registration Steps
International User Registration Process
1. Visit the 1688.com registration page
- Visit www.1688.com in your browser
- Click “Free Registration” in the top right corner
- If you need to translate the page, please enable Google Translate
- Choose “Personal User Registration” for individual buyers
2. Phone number verification
International phone number settings:
- Select your country code from the drop-down menu
- Enter your mobile phone number (must be able to receive text messages)
- Click “Get Verification Code”
- Enter the 6-digit verification code received via SMS
- Note: Some countries may experience delays in SMS delivery
3Account information settings
Required information for international users:
- Login password : 6-20 characters, including letters and numbers
- Confirm Password : Enter your password again
- Email Address : A valid email address for account recovery and notifications
- Verification code : Enter the displayed image verification code
- Agreement : Check the Terms of Service Agreement box
4Complete registration
- Click “Register Now” to complete registration
- You will be redirected to the 1688 homepage
- Your account is now active and ready to shop
- Consider bookmarking this site for easy future access
International buyers set up after registration
Fill in personal information
Recommended profile settings:
- Real Name : For shipping purposes, please use your real name
- Shipping Address : Add your international shipping address
- Preferred language : Set to English if available
- Currency display : Select USD or local currency
- Contact information : Add WhatsApp or international phone number
Account Security for International Users
- Strong passwords : Unique passwords that use a mix of characters
- Email Verification : Verify your email address to recover your account
- Two-factor authentication : Enable if available in your region
- Login Alerts : Enable notifications of new device logins
Frequently asked registration questions for international users
- SMS not received : Please try another phone number or contact customer service
- Missing country code : If your country is not listed, please use +86 (China) and then contact support
- Email Verification Failed : Check your spam folder and try a different email provider
- Page loading issues : Clear your browser cache and disable ad blockers
- Language barriers : Use browser translation tools throughout
4. Product search and shopping guide
⚠️Important Note for International Buyers
Account registration required: 1688.com now requires account registration to use many search features. Please complete the registration process before you can use the advanced search features.
Three basic search methods in 1688
There are 3 ways to search for products on 1688.com, and you should try all 3 because many products will only show up using one specific search method.
1Search by product image/photo (reverse image search)
- Click the camera icon in the search bar
- Upload product images or photos from your computer
- Similar to a Google reverse image search, you’ll see visually similar products.
- Great for finding the exact product or a similar replacement
- Use it to reverse engineer your listings and find keywords for other search methods
Pro tip: Sometimes the results are perfect, sometimes they’re insignificant – don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work out on your first try.
2Search by keyword (English)
- Enter keywords directly in English using a regular keyboard
- For example, searching for “metal straws” returns approximately 200 results (4 pages)
- A good starting point, but somewhat limited compared to Chinese searches
- Use this method first to familiarize yourself with the available products
3Keyword Search (Chinese) – Most Effective
- The best way to find the most suppliers and products
- Use Google Translate to convert English terms into Chinese
- Just search “translate [your product] into Chinese” in Google for a quick translation
- Example: “metal straws” = “metal straws” returns 2,500+ results vs 200 in English
- Directly copy and paste Chinese characters into the 1688 search bar
Why it works: 1688 is designed specifically for Chinese sellers, so Chinese keywords unlock the full product database.
Essential Chinese Shopping Terms for International Buyers
| English Semester | Chinese characters | Pinyin | Search result differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| mobile phone cases | mobile phone cases | Secretary Class | 10 times more Chinese results |
| Metal straws | Metal straws | Jinshu Xiguan | The result of 2,500 and 200 |
| Women’s Clothing | Women’s clothing | Women in their prime | Huge difference in choice |
| Electronics | Electronics | Store merchandise | The number of suppliers increased fivefold |
| LED lights | LED lights | LED lights | Richer variety |
| beauty products | beauty products | Red Lantern | Reach out to local brands |
Use search filters for better results
Essential filters for international shoppers
Key filter to use:
- Price Range (Price) : Set your budget in RMB (¥)
- Minimum Order Quantity : Choose “1 piece minimum order” for small orders
- Location (地区) : Select “Guangdong” (Guangdong) or “Zhejiang” (Zhejiang) for quality
- Trade Assurance (Strong Merchants) : Filter for verified sellers with buyer protection
- Free Shipping : Find free domestic shipping options
- Same-day delivery (in stock) : Filter products that are in stock and available for delivery
Regional Shopping Guides for International Buyers
| area | The most worthwhile products to buy | Why choose this area? |
|---|---|---|
| Guangdong | Electronics, mobile phone accessories, gadgets | A technology center with the latest innovations and quality |
| Zhejiang | Small items, home goods, fashion items | Competitive prices and flexible order quantities |
| Jiangsu | Textiles, machinery, high-quality goods | Have a strong production base and quality control |
| Fujian | Shoes, sportswear, outdoor gear | Focus on footwear and sports equipment |
Explore the product list
Key information to look for:
- Price display (price) : usually displays “¥” (RMB)
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) : Minimum quantity you must order
- Shipping information (shipping fee) : Shipping fee within China
- Seller Ratings (Credit Rating) : Look for high ratings and positive reviews
- Response Time : How quickly seller responds to messages
- Product images : Multiple high-quality photos of the actual product
Popular Product Categories for International Shopping
Categories most favored by international buyers
- Consumer electronics : mobile phone accessories, gadgets, smart devices, chargers
- Fashion : fashion clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, watches
- Home life : decorations, kitchen utensils, furniture, lighting
- Beauty and personal care : cosmetics, skin care tools, hair accessories
- Sports and Outdoors : Fitness Equipment, Outdoor Gear, Sportswear
- Toys & Hobbies : Educational Toys, Collectibles, Crafts, Games
Advanced Search Tips for Better Shopping Results
- Search with images : Upload a photo of your product to find similar items
- Browse by Category : Use the category menu for systematic browsing
- View “Best Sellers” : See popular items in your category
- Use brand names : Search for a specific brand you’re interested in
- Filter by New Arrivals : Find the newest products in your category
- Sort by Sales Volume : See what other buyers are buying
5. Complete the shopping process on 1688
Step-by-step shopping guide
1Product selection and research
- Searching for products : Using the search techniques from Part 4
- Compare option : View multiple sellers of the same product
- View product details : Read descriptions, specs, and reviews
- Verify seller reputation : check ratings, transaction history, and certifications
- Pay attention to minimum order quantities : Make sure you can meet the minimum order quantity requirements
2Contact the seller
- Use Built-in Chat : Click “Contact Supplier” button
- Ask key questions : Ask about shipping, customization, bulk discounts
- Request Samples : Request product samples before placing bulk orders
- Negotiate price : discuss pricing for large quantities
- Clear Shipping : Learn about domestic and international shipping options
Effective communication with 1688 suppliers
⚠️ Communication reality check
- Language barriers : Most suppliers have limited English proficiency – use translation tools
- Cultural differences : Chinese business culture emphasizes relationship building
- Response Time : Expect delays due to time zones and business hours
- Verification is key : always confirm product details, prices, and specifications
Basic Questions to Ask Every Supplier
- Product Verification : “Can you send an actual photo of the product?” (not a stock photo)
- Price confirmation : “What is the exact price for [quantity] pieces (including domestic shipping)?”
- Minimum Order Quantity Instructions : “What is the minimum order quantity? Can you accept smaller orders?”
- Customization options : “Can you customize [specific feature]? What’s the additional cost?”
- Production Time : “How long does production take? When can I expect it to ship?”
- Quality Assurance : “Do you have quality control? Can you provide inspection photos?”
- Shipping details : “Can you ship to [your shipping address]? How much will it cost?”
- Payment Terms : “What payment methods do you accept? Do you offer payment protection?”
Practical Chinese communication phrases
| English | Simplified Chinese | Pinyin |
|---|---|---|
| Can you send me real photos? | Can you send me actual photos? | What does this word mean? |
| What is the best price? | What is the lowest price? | What does this word mean? |
| Can you make a smaller amount? | Can you do small quantity? | Kěyǐ zuò xiǎo shùliàng ma? |
| How long does production take? | How long does production take? | What does the word “shēngchǎn” mean? |
| Can you ship to this address? | Can you ship to this address? | Kěyǐ fāhuò dào zhège dìzhǐ ma? |
Red flags in supplier communications
- Avoiding questions : Suppliers don’t answer specific questions about their products
- Pressure tactics : demanding immediate payment or large orders
- No physical photos : Refuse to provide actual product photos
- Vague Answers : Giving unclear answers about quality, shipping, or specifications
- Off-platform payments : adhere to payment methods outside the scope of 1688 protection
- Too good to be true : Prices significantly below market average
Sample Ordering Strategy
Why samples are crucial to the success of 1688
- Quality Verification : Product photos on 1688 are often misleading or outdated
- Specification confirmation : ensuring the product meets your exact requirements
- Supplier testing : Evaluate supplier reliability and communication quality
- Cost comparison : compare actual quality and prices across multiple suppliers
- Risk Mitigation : Avoid Big Order Disasters by Testing First
Sample Ordering Best Practices
- Order from multiple suppliers : Get samples from 3-5 different suppliers for comparison
- Define your requirements : Clearly communicate your quality standards and specifications
- Document everything : Take photos and record every sample received
- Test thoroughly : Use samples as if they were final products
- Negotiate based on samples : Use sample quality to negotiate price and terms
Sample Ordering Notes
- Sample cost : Expect to pay for sample and shipping (usually $10-50 per sample)
- Shipping time : 1-2 weeks within China
- Quality Difference : Sample quality may differ from mass production
- Customization limitations : Examples may not show all customization options
3Place an order
- Add to Cart : Click “Order Now” or “Add to Cart”
- Select Quantity : Select the quantity of the item you want to purchase
- Select specifications : select size, color, model (if available)
- Review order details : carefully check product, quantity and specifications
- Proceed to Checkout : Click “Place Order Now”
Payment methods for international buyers
Available payment methods
- Alipay : The most common method, requires a Chinese bank account or international card
- Bank transfer : directly transferred to the seller’s Chinese bank account
- Third-party services : Use services such as Superbuy, WeGoBuy or CSSBuy
- Credit Cards : Some sellers accept international credit cards
- PayPal : Limited availability, primarily for verified international sellers
Recommended payment process for international buyers
- Use a purchasing agent : Consider using a purchasing agent to make payment and shipping easier.
- Start with a small order : Start with a small order to test the seller’s reliability
- Verify Payment Security : Ensure secure payment methods and buyer protection
- Record keeping : Save all transaction details and communications with sellers
Shipping and logistics for international orders
Learn about shipping options
Important Shipping Information
- Domestic shipping only : Most 1688 sellers only ship within China
- Use a forwarding service : You need a Chinese address or a forwarding service
- Consolidation Service : Combine multiple orders to save on international shipping costs
- Customs and Duties : Learn about import duties and customs regulations in your country
Popular transfer services
| Service Name | specialization | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Super Buy | General Purchasing Agent | Quality inspection, consolidation, multiple shipping options |
| WeGoBuy | Fashion and lifestyle products | Photo verification, detailed quality inspection report, fast processing |
| CSS Purchase | Electronics and Gadgets | Technical product expertise, competitive shipping rates |
| Best Tao | Small items and accessories | Low service fee, suitable for small orders |
Order tracking and management
Monitor your orders
- Order Status : Check “My Orders” for current status
- Shipping Updates : Tracking Shipments within China
- Communication : Stay in touch with sellers to get the latest information
- Quality Control : If using an agent, ask for photos or inspection reports
- International Tracking : Monitor international shipments once they leave China
Common order status (Chinese to English)
- Pending Payment
- Pending Shipment
- Shipped
- In Transit
- Signed for = Delivered
- Transaction Complete
6. Seller Evaluation and Selection
⚠️ Important information about 1688 product listings
- Prices are often unreliable : listed prices may be based on large orders or the lowest quality version
- Product photos can be misleading : Many are “concept drawings” showing what the supplier could produce, not the actual product.
- Always verify everything : Assume that all listing information needs to be confirmed with the supplier
Learn about 1688 membership levels
Before contacting a supplier, please check their membership level to avoid choosing a supplier that is obviously of lower quality. 1688 has three main membership levels:
1 Chenxintong (誠) – Basic Member
- Cost : 6,688 yuan (approximately $1,000) per year
- Requirements : Valid business license and annual fee payment
- Meaning : Basic verification, similar to Alibaba Gold Supplier
- Membership Years : More important than the badge itself – looking for members with 3-5+ years
- Risk Level : Medium – Suitable for small orders and testing
2 Strong Merchants (Niutou) – Senior Member
- Cost : $4,000 to $8,000 per year (varies by industry)
- Requirements : Higher registered capital and stricter audit
- Meaning : Serious vendors willing to invest in their platform
- Quality filter : Effectively filter out bad suppliers with high costs
- Risk Level : Low – Suitable for medium to large orders
3 Source Factory (Factory) – Top Member
- Cost : Approximately $120,000 per year
- Requirements : Factory > 1,000 square meters, annual sales > $1.5 million, third-party verification
- Meaning : The best suppliers provided by 1688, experienced operators
- Pros : Easiest to work with, highest quality standards
- Note : Due to the large scale, MOQ may be high
- Risk Level : Very Low – Suitable for large orders and long-term cooperation
Basic steps in supplier verification
Step 1: Check basic company information
- Hover your mouse over a supplier name to see an overview pop-up
- Click on the “Company” or “Factory File” tab to view detailed information
- Verify business registration and contact details
- Check when they became 1688 members
- Look for SGS or Intertek certification reports (including VR factory visits)
Step 2: Analyze service and delivery guarantees
- Looking for a guarantee equivalent to 1688 Trade Assurance
- Check if the supplier deposits funds into an escrow account (usually 3,000 RMB ≈ 400 USD)
- Verification covers: quality, delivery time, service issues
- Note: The guarantee only applies to orders placed through the 1688 platform
- Even if you trade outside of 1688, the guarantee indicates the quality of the supplier
Step 3: Review supplier performance scores
Check the automatically calculated performance indicators in the upper right corner of the factory document page:
- Turnover rate : actually the reorder rate (the most important metric)
- On-time performance : delivery reliability (critical for planning)
- Response rate : How quickly they respond to inquiries
- Quality Score : Based on buyer feedback and returns
- Service Rating : Customer service quality rating
Red flags to avoid
Immediate disqualification
- No member badge or very new membership (less than 1 year)
- Unbelievably low prices
- Product photos are of poor quality or stolen
- Providing company information or false business details is prohibited
- Negative reviews that mention quality or service issues
- Unwillingness to provide samples or additional product photos
- Pressure to pay outside of secure payment methods
Basic Qualification Assessment
Current status of enterprise certification
Certification Level Assessment:
- Business license certification (basic requirements)
- Tax registration certificate certification
- Organization code certificate certification
- Bank account opening license certification
- Legal person identity certificate
Platform certification badge
- Verified Suppliers : High-quality suppliers that have passed rigorous platform audits
- Factory badge : factory direct sales, obvious price advantage
- Gold Supplier : Long-term stable operation and good reputation
- VIP members : Paid members enjoy more platform services
Business Capacity Assessment
Production capacity assessment
| Evaluation Dimensions | Standards of Excellence | Good standards | Average Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly production capacity | >100,000 pieces | 50,000-100,000 pieces | 10,000-50,000 pieces |
| production line | >5 lines | 3-5 lines | Lines 1-3 |
| Number of employees | >100 people | 50-100 people | 20-50 people |
| Factory area | >5,000 square meters | 2,000-5,000 square meters | 500-2000 square meters |
Service capability assessment
- Response speed : Customer service response time (Excellent: <1 hour, Good: 1-4 hours)
- Expertise : Product knowledge and problem-solving skills
- Language skills : Chinese and English communication level
- Service attitude : Patient and proactive in problem solving
Credit record analysis
Transaction history analysis
- Trading volume trend : Has the trading volume been growing steadily recently?
- Customer Reviews : Buyers’ feedback on quality and service
- Dispute Resolution : Historical Dispute Resolution Methods and Outcomes
- Repeat purchase rate : the proportion of repeat purchases by existing customers
Credit rating system
- AAA : Excellent credit, very low risk
- AA : Good credit, relatively low risk
- A Level : Average credit, manageable risk
- B : Poor credit, cooperation requires caution
- C level : Very poor credit, cooperation is not recommended
5. Quality Control and Validation
Sample application and testing
Application Process Example
Step 1: Define sample requirements
- Product specifications and technical parameters
- Color, size and material requirements
- Packaging and labeling requirements
Step 2: Sample cost negotiation
- Free samples : usually limited to 1-2 pieces, simple products
- Paid samples : complex or customized products
- Shipping costs : Usually borne by the buyer
Step 3: Sample quality test
- Appearance inspection : color, size, workmanship
- Functional testing : performance indicator verification
- Material testing : third-party testing when necessary
Supplier on-site inspection
Preparation before the examination
- Develop an inspection plan : define inspection objectives and focus areas
- Prepare checklists : production equipment, quality control, management systems
- Arrange inspection time : avoid holidays and production off-season
On-site inspection focus
Production environment assessment:
- Factory cleanliness and equipment advancements
- Degree of standardization of production processes
- Employee proficiency
- Completeness of production safety measures
Quality Control System:
- Raw materials incoming inspection system
- Quality control points in the production process
- Finished product factory inspection standards
- Quality problem traceability mechanism
Third-party verification services
Factory Audit Services
| Audit Organization | specialization | Global recognition |
|---|---|---|
| SGS audit | Internationally authoritative third-party auditing agency | Global recognition |
| BV Audit | Bureau Veritas | European and American markets |
| TUV audit | German Technical Inspection Association | German and European standards |
Product testing and certification
- CE certification : EU product safety certification
- FCC certification : Federal Communications Commission certification
- RoHS certification : EU environmental certification
- ISO certification : International Organization for Standardization certification
6. Price negotiation skills
Preparation before negotiation
Effective market research is crucial for successful price negotiations. Professional buyers typically spend 20% to 30% of their preparation time on comprehensive market research, which lays the foundation for developing an intelligent negotiation strategy.
Market Research
| field of study | Main Activities | Expected Results |
|---|---|---|
| Price research of similar products | Collect quotes from at least 5-10 suppliers | Understand the market price range |
| Price difference analysis | Analyze the reasons for price changes | Quality and price correlation |
| Average market price level | Calculate weighted average market price | Realistic price expectations |
Understanding your supplier’s cost structure is crucial for effective negotiation. This framework helps identify cost optimization opportunities and negotiating margins, fostering more strategic pricing discussions.
Cost structure analysis
| Cost structure | Typical percentage | Negotiation potential |
|---|---|---|
| Raw material costs | 40-60% | Low (market driven) |
| labor costs | 15-25% | Medium (efficiency improvement) |
| Manufacturing overhead | 10-20% | Medium (volume discounts) |
| Profit Margin | 10-25% | High (negotiable) |
Negotiation strategy development
- Target price setting : ideal price, acceptable price, maximum price
- Negotiation chips preparation : order volume, payment terms, long-term cooperation
- Alternative solutions : backup suppliers and product substitutes
Calculate Your Service Fees Effortlessly
Our fee calculator is designed to help you understand service costs quickly and accurately. No more guesswork—get precise estimates tailored to your needs.
Start Calculating Now →
Effective negotiation skills
Successful negotiations in 1688 required a strategic approach that balanced assertiveness with relationship building. A staged negotiation strategy was often more effective than a single, adversarial negotiation.
Opening Strategy
1. Build trust
- Expressing intention for long-term cooperation
- Demonstrate company strength and procurement plans
- Respect the professionalism of suppliers
2. Clarify procurement requirements
- Detailed product specification requirements
- Expected order volume and frequency
- Delivery time and quality standards
Different negotiation techniques are appropriate for different situations. Combining multiple techniques often yields the best results, allowing for flexible adaptation to varying supplier responses and market conditions.
Price negotiation skills
| technology | Application Scenario | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Anchoring Effect | First negotiation | High – Set negotiation bottom line |
| Phased negotiations | Complex product discussions | High – Build momentum |
| Bundling Negotiation | Multiple product/service demands | Medium-sized – creating a win-win situation |
| Time pressure | Supplier sales pressure period | Medium – requires time |
| Competitive pressure | Multiple supplier options | High – but use with caution |
Confirmation of negotiation results
Price confirmation factors
- Basic price : unit price + total price
- Price validity period : Quotation validity period
- Payment terms : payment methods and credit periods
- Delivery terms : FOB, CIF and other trade terms
Negotiation of contract terms
- Quality standards : clear quality requirements and inspection standards
- Delivery deadline : Specific delivery time and liability for delays
- Packaging requirements : packaging methods and labeling requirements
- After-sales service : quality problem handling process
7. Order Management and Payment
Order creation process
Order information confirmation
1. Product information verification
- Product name, model, specifications
- Quantity, unit price, total price
- Color, size and other detailed parameters
2. Shipping information confirmation
- Shipping address and contact person
- Delivery time requirements
- Logistics method selection
Order Modification and Cancellation
- Modification time limit : Usually can be modified before supplier confirmation
- Cancellation conditions : Understand the order cancellation conditions and fees
- Communication confirmation : important changes need to be confirmed with the supplier by phone
Payment method selection
Alipay escrow transactions
- Security : Funds are held by Alipay to ensure transaction security
- Operation process : Place order → Pay via Alipay → Confirm receipt → Release payment
- Applicable scenarios : first cooperation or small orders
Bank transfer
- Applicable conditions : large orders or long-term partners
- Risk control : comprehensive contract and credit assessment is required
- Transaction fees : relatively low fees
installment
| Payment Plan | structure | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Plan A | 30% advance payment + 70% before shipment | Medium |
| Plan B | 50% advance payment + 50% cash on delivery | Low |
| Plan C | 100% cash on delivery | Very low (good credit required) |
Logistics and distribution management
Logistics method selection
- Express delivery : suitable for small items, fast speed
- Logistics dedicated line : suitable for large items, low cost
- Self-pickup : Nearby suppliers, saving shipping costs
Logistics Tracking
- Get Tracking Number : Request a tracking number from the supplier immediately
- Online tracking : Use the logistics company’s official website or a third-party platform
- Exception handling : timely handling of abnormal situations during transportation
Looking for Efficient Logistics and Shipping Services?
Our logistics solutions streamline your shipping needs, ensuring timely and reliable delivery. Tailored to meet commercial demands, we handle everything from storage to transportation with care.
Explore Our Logistics Services →
8. Risk Control Measures
Supplier risk identification
Common risk types
| Risk Category | Specific risks | Impact level |
|---|---|---|
| Quality Risk | Product quality is unstable and differs greatly from the sample | senior management |
| Delivery Risk | Delayed delivery, shortage of quantity, improper packaging | Medium |
| credit risk | No delivery after payment, false advertising, lack of after-sales service | Very high |
Identifying high-risk signals
- The price is significantly lower than the market average
- Require full upfront payment and reject escrow transactions
- Unable to provide valid business certificate
- Unprofessional customer service responses or evasive answers
- Refuse to provide samples or on-site inspections
- Historical transaction records show a large number of disputes
Risk prevention strategies
Diversified procurement risks
- Multi-supplier strategy : Find 2-3 alternative suppliers for the same product
- Small batch trial order : First cooperation, start with a small batch
- Gradually increase the order volume : Gradually increase the order volume based on the performance of cooperation
Contract risk control
1. Specific terms of the contract
- Clear product specifications and quality standards
- Specific delivery time and location
- Clarify the liability for breach of contract and compensation clauses
2. Margin System
- Require suppliers to pay performance bonds
- Set a quality deposit retention period
- Establish supplier credit files
Dispute Resolution Mechanism
Platform complaint channels
- Online customer service : 1688 platform official customer service
- Complaint hotline : 400 customer service telephone
- Email complaint : Official complaint mailbox
Legal channels for rights protection
- Negotiated solution : direct communication and negotiation with suppliers
- Platform arbitration : Apply for platform intervention in mediation
- Legal proceedings : resolving major disputes through the courts
9. Long-term cooperation maintenance
Supplier Relationship Management
Regular communication mechanism
- Monthly Business Review : Summarize the monthly cooperation situation
- Quarterly strategic discussions : exploring future collaboration directions
- Annual Supplier Conference : Honoring Outstanding Suppliers
Incentive mechanism design
Supplier incentive system:
- 🏆 Excellent supplier selection
- 💰 Order volume growth reward
- ⭐Priority cooperation rights
- 🎯 New product development cooperation
- 📈 Long-term contract signing
Supplier performance evaluation
Evaluation index system
| Evaluation Dimensions | weight | Specific indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Quality Performance | 40% | Qualification rate, customer complaint rate, quality improvement |
| Delivery Performance | 30% | On-time delivery rate and quantity accuracy |
| Service Performance | 20% | Response speed and problem-solving ability |
| Cost Performance | 10% | Price competitiveness, cost optimization |
Application for assessment results
- A-level suppliers : Increase order share and prioritize cooperation
- B-level suppliers : Maintain existing cooperation and make continuous improvements
- C-level suppliers : Reduce orders and require rectification
- D-level suppliers : Terminate cooperation and seek alternatives
Supply Chain Optimization
Supplier Consolidation
- Reduce the number of suppliers : Centralize procurement and improve bargaining power
- Deepening the partnership : Transforming from a transactional partnership to a strategic partnership
- Collaborative development : joint product development and technological innovation
Digital management
- ERP system integration : realize integrated management of orders, inventory and finance
- Data analysis applications : using big data to optimize procurement decisions
- Mobile office : Use the 1688 mobile app to manage purchases anytime, anywhere
[Supplier selection strategy]
10. Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ for beginners
Q1: What is the difference between 1688 and Taobao?
Answer: 1688 is a B2B wholesale platform, mainly for corporate procurement, with a larger minimum order quantity and more favorable prices; Taobao is a B2C retail platform, aimed at individual consumers, and can purchase single items.
Q2: Can individuals purchase on 1688?
A: Yes, but it is recommended to register a business account to enjoy more services and more favorable prices. Personal accounts are limited in some functions.
Q3: How to judge whether the supplier is reliable?
A: The following aspects are mainly considered:
- Enterprise certification status and level
- Historical transaction records and buyer reviews
- Response speed and professionalism
- Whether on-site inspection is supported
- Sample quality and consistency
Procurement operations issues
Q4: What if the minimum order quantity is too large?
A: Please try the following:
- Negotiate with suppliers to reduce minimum order quantities
- Find suppliers who support small batches
- Group buy with other buyers
- Choose stock products instead of custom ones
Q5: How to ensure product quality?
A: Recommended measures:
- Request samples from suppliers
- Conduct third-party quality testing
- On-site inspection of production environment
- Sign a detailed quality agreement
- Establish a quality feedback mechanism
Q6: How to ensure payment security?
A: Recommended safety measures:
- Prioritize Alipay escrow transactions
- Avoid direct bank transfers to new suppliers
- Use installment payments to reduce risk
- Keep all transaction records
Price negotiation issues
Q7: What should I do if the supplier’s quotation is too high?
A: Use the following strategies:
- Collect multiple quotes for comparison
- Analyze cost structure to find room for price reduction
- Increase your order quantity to get a better price
- Adjust product specifications or packaging requirements
- Consider long-term cooperation to obtain discounts
Q8: How to avoid price traps?
A: Note:
- Clarify what the quote includes
- Confirm whether taxes and shipping are included
- Understand the validity period of the quotation
- Be wary of offers that are significantly below market price
- Sign a price protection agreement
Logistics and delivery issues
Q9: How to choose the appropriate logistics method?
Answer: Selection basis:
- Cargo weight and volume
- Time requirements
- Transportation cost budget
- Distance to destination
- Value and fragility of goods
Q10: How to deal with damaged or lost goods?
A: Processing steps:
- Contact the logistics company immediately to report
- Keep photos of the damaged goods as evidence
- Contact suppliers to negotiate solutions
- File an insurance claim if necessary
- Summarize experience and improve packaging requirements
in conclusion
Finding high-quality suppliers on the 1688 platform is a systematic project that requires full preparation in all aspects, from account setup, search strategy, supplier evaluation, quality control, price negotiation to long-term cooperation maintenance.
Key Success Factors
- Adequate preliminary preparation : clarify needs, understand the market, and formulate strategies
- Scientific evaluation system : multi-dimensional evaluation of supplier capabilities and credit
- Effective risk control : identifying risks, preventing risks, and responding to risks
- Continuous maintenance of relationships : upgrading from transactional relationships to strategic partnerships
Future development trends
With the development of digital technology, the 1688 platform will continue to optimize the user experience and provide more intelligent search and matching services. Procurement personnel need to constantly learn new tools and methods to improve procurement efficiency and quality.
By following the advice and best practices in this guide, you will be able to find high-quality suppliers on the 1688 platform, establish a stable supply chain, and lay a solid foundation for your business development.
This guide is compiled based on the latest 1688 platform rules and market practices as of 2025. It is recommended to regularly monitor platform updates and industry trends and continuously optimize procurement strategies.
