Wholesale · China
How to Buy from 1688 as a Foreigner: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn the full process of buying from 1688, from registration to customs clearance. Discover how to overcome payment and account barriers.
· 4 min read
Overview of the 1688 Buying Process
Foreigners cannot directly purchase from 1688 due to account and payment restrictions. This guide will walk you through the entire process, including registration, supplier selection, communication, payment, domestic logistics, consolidation warehouses, international shipping, and customs clearance.
Registering on 1688
Visit 1688.com and click on the '注册' (Register) button in the top right corner. You can use your email or phone number to register. Note that 1688 is primarily in Chinese, so you may need to use a translation tool like Google Translate or Bing Translator to navigate the site.
After registering, you will need to verify your account. For foreigners, this typically involves providing a passport scan. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the verification process.
Selecting and Communicating with Suppliers
Use the search bar on 1688 to find suppliers for your desired products. Enter the product name in Chinese or English. For better results, use the Chinese name. You can translate product names using Google Translate.
Once you have identified potential suppliers, use the chat function (点击聊天) to communicate with them. Most suppliers speak Chinese, so you may need a translation tool. Ask about minimum order quantities (MOQs), prices, and lead times. It is important to verify the legitimacy of the supplier. Refer to QualityInspection.org's guide for detailed steps on verifying manufacturers.
Payment Methods for Foreign Buyers
1688 requires a Chinese bank account for payments, which is a major barrier for foreign buyers. To overcome this, you can use a third-party service like WorldFirst. Follow WorldFirst's guide to set up an account and make payments through a Chinese bank account.
Alternatively, you can use a Chinese procurement agent. These agents can handle the entire process, including payment, for a commission. Learn more about procurement agents and their services in Cosmo Sourcing's guide.
Domestic Logistics and Consolidation Warehouses
Once the payment is made, the supplier will ship the goods to a consolidation warehouse in China. You will need to provide the address of the consolidation warehouse to the supplier. Use AMap (the map app almost everyone in China uses) from AMap Global to find the exact location of the warehouse. Search for '集运仓' (consolidation warehouse) followed by the city name in Chinese.
The consolidation warehouse will combine your orders from different suppliers into one shipment. They will also handle the international shipping. Ensure you communicate with the warehouse to confirm the shipping details and costs.
International Shipping and Customs Clearance
The consolidation warehouse will ship your goods internationally. You will need to provide the necessary documentation for customs clearance. This includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and any other required documents. The warehouse should assist you with the necessary paperwork.
Customs duties and taxes vary depending on the country of import. Check with your local customs authority for the specific requirements and fees. You can find more information on the customs clearance process in HowToTao's 1688 guide.
What it looks like
Frequently asked
Can I use my foreign credit card to pay on 1688?
No, 1688 requires a Chinese bank account for payments. Use a third-party service like WorldFirst or a Chinese procurement agent to make payments.
How do I find a reliable consolidation warehouse?
Use AMap to search for '集运仓' followed by the city name in Chinese. Verify the warehouse's reputation and services before using them.
What documents are needed for customs clearance?
You will need a commercial invoice, packing list, and any other required documents. The consolidation warehouse should assist you with the necessary paperwork.
How do I verify the legitimacy of a supplier on 1688?
Check the supplier's reviews, ratings, and transaction history. Use QualityInspection.org's guide to verify the manufacturer's legitimacy.
Can I negotiate the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
Yes, you can negotiate the MOQ with the supplier. Refer to QualityInspection.org's guide on how to decrease a minimum order quantity for practical tips.
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About this guide
Written and maintained by the China Unboxed team from Shenzhen. We keep guides current and general on purpose — always verify prices and policies against official sources before booking.
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