How to pay a 1688 supplier
1688 has the best factory prices in China, but it is built for domestic buyers. Here is how to actually order and pay from outside China, safely and cheaply.
Find the product and supplier
Search 1688 with Chinese keywords. Compare a few suppliers on price, MOQ and reviews.
Use a sourcing agent or buying account
1688 is built for the domestic market. Most foreign buyers pay through an agent who places the order in CNY on their behalf.
Confirm the all-in price
Goods + agent fee + domestic China shipping. Then add international freight, duty and VAT.
Pay through a low-cost rail
Fund the agent or supplier via a B2B provider for the best rate and a paper trail. Avoid sending cash to unknown personal accounts.
Inspect before final payment
For larger orders, arrange a quality check at the warehouse before goods ship. Hold leverage until you are satisfied.
Ship, clear and reconcile
Choose air or sea, clear customs through your agent, and reconcile the final landed cost against your estimate.
Import cost
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Frequently asked questions
Can I pay a 1688 supplier directly?
Usually not directly, because 1688 expects a Chinese payment method. Most foreign buyers use an agent who pays the supplier in CNY, then you reimburse the agent through a B2B provider.
What fees should I expect?
A sourcing agent typically charges 3-8% of goods value. On top of that you pay the provider spread (around 1-3%) plus freight, duty and VAT on import.
How do I avoid 1688 scams?
Use an agent with protection, pay through traceable channels, never send to random personal accounts, and inspect goods before final payment.
1688 or Alibaba for importing?
1688 is the domestic Chinese marketplace with lower prices but Chinese-only, domestic payment. Alibaba is export-facing with English support. Many importers source on 1688 via an agent for price.