Why 1688
1688 is Alibaba’s domestic B2B platform with lower prices and more factory-direct listings, but it assumes Chinese-language buyers. You must compensate with tighter verification and stronger logistics control to avoid bait-and-switch from trading companies.
Translation & Search
- Use Chrome translate plus Chinese keywords (translate your product spec terms) to unlock deeper results.
- Filter by 经营模式: 生产厂家 (manufacturer) and 实地认证 (onsite verified).
- Check ratings, response time, and repeat buyers; avoid listings with stock photos or wildly low prices.
- Capture product links in a spreadsheet with notes on MOQ, lead time, and certs.
Payments & Escrow
1688 favors Alipay escrow; if you do not have a China entity, pay via a trusted sourcing partner or freight forwarder that can issue a domestic payment and re-invoice you. Never pay via personal QR codes. Use milestone payments (sample, 30% deposit, 70% pre-ship) and keep all terms in writing.
Logistics & QA
Plan to ship through a forwarder who can consolidate, inspect, and export. Require:
- Photos of production and packing
- Pre-shipment inspection using AQL
- Export carton labels and HS codes for clearance
- Clear Incoterm (FOB/CIF/DDP) with responsibility split
Keep two suppliers in play until you confirm quality and communication over one full order cycle.