Latest Sourcing Guides
Practical guides for one-person ecommerce sellers importing from China — from supplier vetting and tariffs to shipping and quality control.
What to Do When a Bulk Order from China Doesn’t Match the Sample
Learn how to document a bulk-vs-sample mismatch, classify severity, and request a supplier remedy.
Quality ControlHow to Write a QC Checklist for Your Product: A Template for Solo Importers
Learn how to turn product specs into a practical QC checklist for samples and pre-shipment inspections.
Quality ControlPre-Shipment Inspection Guide: How to Check Goods Before They Leave China
Learn when to arrange a pre-shipment inspection, what inspectors check, and what to do if it fails.
Supplier CommunicationHow to Handle Supplier Disputes with Chinese Suppliers
Learn how to handle supplier disputes over quality, delays, or missing items — documentation and resolution steps.
Supplier CommunicationHow to Negotiate Price with a Chinese Supplier: A Beginner’s Guide
Learn proven tactics for negotiating price with Chinese suppliers without damaging the relationship.
Supplier CommunicationHow to Write Your First Supplier Inquiry: Templates for New Importers
Learn how to write a clear first inquiry to a Chinese supplier — specs, quantity, and questions that get real responses.
Logistics & ShippingLCL vs FCL: Which Sea Freight Option Works for Small Importers?
Learn the difference between LCL and FCL sea freight and how to calculate which option saves you money.
Logistics & ShippingHow to Find a Freight Forwarder for China Imports: A Small Importer’s Guide
Learn how to find and compare freight forwarders for China imports, what to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Tariffs & CustomsWhat Section 301 Means for China Importers: A Beginner’s Guide
Learn what Section 301 tariffs mean for your imports and how to factor the extra duty into landed cost.
Tariffs & CustomsHow to Find Your HTS Code: A Beginner’s Guide for Small Importers
Learn how to find your HTS code, check duty rates, and avoid common classification mistakes.
Logistics & ShippingShipping from China: Sea Freight vs Air Freight vs Express for Small Importers
Compare sea, air, and express courier for China imports — cost, speed, and when each option makes sense.
Tariffs & CustomsThe 2026 Tariff Survival Guide for Small Importers
Learn which HTS codes face the highest 2026 tariffs and practical strategies to protect your margins.
1688 MasteryHow to Search for Suppliers on 1688 (Without Reading Chinese)
Learn how to search 1688 with Chinese keywords, filter by ratings, and identify factories worth contacting.