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How importers minimize product defects by establishing a golden sample
Posted: June 28, 2017
It's easier to hold suppliers accountable for unacceptable defects when factory staff have a golden sample to use as a model.
What it takes to develop a new electronic product in China – Part 1
Posted: June 26, 2017
There are several steps that need to be followed throughout the development of such a complex system.
8 reasons to register your trademarks in China
Posted: June 23, 2017
If you don't register your trademark, someone else could and probably will
Supercharge your Amazon PPC (Michael Hartman) – Global Sources Summit
Posted: June 22, 2017
Michael Hartmant's Summit presentation covered the importance of PPC, and how to structure and optimize campaigns.
How to Stop Hijackers on Amazon
Posted: June 21, 2017
If you want to protect your brand and income from hijackers on Amazon, you have to start with the basics, that is filing for trademark protection.
4 ways to protect your IP when manufacturing in China
Posted: June 21, 2017
The best strategy to protect your IP is to prioritize IP registration in your major sales market/s.
Prevent quality defects in your products by clarifying requirements
Posted: June 19, 2017
There are a number of ways to clarify your requirements to help you get the product you want while limiting quality defects.
Promo products: Considerations before manufacturing starts
Posted: June 16, 2017
For promo products, use the time prior to mass production for final communication and checking.
China contract templates: The cons and the cons
Posted: June 14, 2017
In drafting contracts, the core agreement is almost always completely unique to the specific client.
Watch all Global Sources Summit sessions when and where you want
Posted: June 13, 2017
If you missed attending the Summit, you can now watch all 18 presentations at your own convenience on your favorite device.
China supplier vetting part 8: Factory testing facilities
Posted: June 12, 2017
A factory missing the necessary testing facilities does not have the capability to make consistent quality products.
Five ways to stop duplicates of your product from being sold on Amazon
Posted: June 09, 2017
Here's how you can reduce the risk of duplicate products appearing on Amazon and better position yourself to remove those products if they do show up.
4 ways to address product defects found during QC inspection
Posted: June 07, 2017
Asking for reinspection and chargebacks is one way of coping with product defects.
Sea freight vs. air freight – The ultimate guide
Posted: June 05, 2017
This guide covers freight methods, container types and sizing, delivery times and weight calculations.
Preventing product defects starts with negotiating with suppliers
Posted: June 02, 2017
Preventing product defects through negotiation saves importers time and money in trying to fix these issues after production.
How to conduct stricter QC inspections, apart from a lower AQL?
Posted: May 31, 2017
Buyers often ask us how to do stricter quality inspections with some of their suppliers in China or Vietnam.
China customs violations and how to avoid jail time
Posted: May 29, 2017
Do not underreport or in any other way lie to China customs.
Why QC professionals use AQL sampling for product inspection
Posted: May 26, 2017
AQL sampling offers certain advantages, including time savings, flexibility and cost effectivity.
So you inspect quality but Chinese suppliers don't improve?
Posted: May 24, 2017
Why isn't quality getting better? There are mainly two reasons for this.
Case study: How my private label product ended up on Oprah's Favorite Things list (KJ Robinson)
Posted: May 22, 2017
A product KJ Robinson first sourced at the Global Sources show was featured on Oprah's Favorite Things list of 2016 and USA Today's 10 must-haves.
3 basic guidelines for garment quality assurance in China
Posted: May 19, 2017
A recent articlelays out nicely the basic guidelines an importer should follow to ensure good garment quality assurance.
Which entity should own your China IP?
Posted: May 17, 2017
Unless you have a really good reason to split ownership and use of your China IP into different entities, just keep it simple and use one company.
How to avoid risks when importing from China
Posted: May 15, 2017
A lot of the potential hassle can be avoided by heeding the following when importing from China.
Is your China contract worthless?
Posted: May 12, 2017
If you are going to do business in China or with a Chinese company, you almost certainly will need a contract that satisfies China's legal requirements.
Global Sources Summit April 2017 recap: Key takeaways from 20+ Amazon experts
Posted: May 11, 2017
The Summit brought together online and Amazon sellers to learn from a wide range of speakers to help grow their eCommerce businesses.
How AQL sampling affects your product inspection results
Posted: May 10, 2017
Let's look at how AQL and other factors to determine the result of your inspections.
5 negotiating lessons from Sec. of State Tillerson's Beijing trip
Posted: May 08, 2017
Tillerson followed western negotiating protocol by focusing on the key negotiating goals. But for Chinese negotiators, there is always a larger agenda.
Pre-production samples: Critical points when confirming
Posted: May 05, 2017
As you're signing-off and confirming pre-production samples, find out from the supplier how mass production is going to differ from the samples.
Three keys to drafting a China contract that works
Posted: May 03, 2017
Giving clients a contract that will both protect them and get the deal done is key in drafting a China contract.
China supplier vetting part 7: Factory process & system audit
Posted: May 01, 2017
The key to a system audit is to evaluate the maturity of the systems and processes of the factory.
How importers use the AQL table for product inspection
Posted: April 28, 2017
Understanding how the AQL table works can go a long way in helping interpret your inspection results and decide how to act on them.
Valuelink's Zack Franklin reveals the strengths and weaknesses of Chinese Amazon sellers
Posted: April 26, 2017
Zack Franklin shares what he's been seeing among Chinese Amazon sellers and what differentiates them from American sellers and those in other markets.
Skubana founder explains why his platform is the best for beginners and pros alike
Posted: April 24, 2017
Skubana is different because it's seamless and handles everything from inventory management to analytics.
Bringing strong closure to your China order
Posted: April 21, 2017
Many a China order goes down the toilet because slackness creeps end towards the end of the process.
China supplier vetting, part 6: On-site social compliance audits
Posted: April 19, 2017
During China supplier vetting, you might also have to check their social & environmental policies.
Learn how to protect your IP from China at the Global Sources Summit
Posted: April 17, 2017
On April 18, China Law Blog's Dan Harris will be speaking on China IP at the Global Sources Summit in Hong Kong.
5 electronic product recalls that QC inspection could have prevented
Posted: April 14, 2017
Look at major tech product recalls in recent news and see how the importer might have avoided them with QC inspection.
Pre-production samples: Critical points when confirming
Posted: April 12, 2017
In order not to over-promise or to have misplaced concepts of mass production, there are critical points to consider.
6 contract-related mistakes importers make in China
Posted: April 07, 2017
Most first-time importers make at least 4 of the following 6 mistakes.
China negotiating lessons
Posted: April 05, 2017
Western negotiating protocol is to focus on the key negotiating goals, but Chinese negotiators "always" have a larger agenda.
The steps FBA sellers should not skip when buying in China [video]
Posted: April 03, 2017
FBA sellers can find a wealth of tutorials on "how to sell on Amazon and get rich in 6 months" but not much on what to do with Chinese suppliers and ensure product quality.
More on sampling process: Once the samples arrive…then what?
Posted: March 31, 2017
Let's look at the sampling process more from the standpoint of once the samples arrive to the buyers' hands. What's next?
5 basic things to remind your supplier
Posted: March 29, 2017
Here are 5 reminders to keep in front of your supplier and…not to mention your own flow chart and sticky-note bulletin.
Why QC inspectors rarely work with Chinese factory staff to fix issues
Posted: March 27, 2017
The belief that a QC inspector's role extends beyond simply finding and reporting problems is one of five misconceptions of QC inspection in China.
Why you need to write contracts with your Chinese suppliers
Posted: March 27, 2017
Misunderstanding, confusion, and uncertainty can definitely plague your entire supply chain when you choose to outsource from abroad, especially when dealing with an alien culture like China.
6 pieces of advice for importers to control quality remotely
Posted: March 24, 2017
Here are six ways to utilize quality control in China so you can avoid defects, delays, partial shipments, and other headaches.
China supplier vetting, part 5: On-site factory quality audits
Posted: March 22, 2017
If you want to move further in the direction of working with them, the next step is generally a factory quality audit.
Walk trade shows like a pro with free eBook
Posted: March 21, 2017
A new eBook from Global Sources offers tips on how to maximize visits to trade shows in Asia.
China IP theft: Why pay for technology?
Posted: March 20, 2017
We are perpetually concerned that the overriding goal of the Chinese side is to walk away with our client's intellectual property without fairly compensating our client for that.
The risks of paying sourcing contractors (employees) in China
Posted: March 17, 2017
One option is to work with a professional sourcing agency. It might cost more in direct fees, but it usually more than pays itself through the lower incidence of serious issues.
10 sampling tips for China sourcing
Posted: March 15, 2017
If sampling is smooth and gives keen insight into the product and type of supplier you're working with, then you're on the right path.
China counterfeiting: 8 common myths
Posted: March 13, 2017
There's no way to protect brands in China against counterfeits is just one of the eight common China counterfeiting myths.
Why product inspection companies can't compel your Chinese suppliers
Posted: March 10, 2017
What are the limitations of an inspection company's authority at the factory? When is more direct involvement from the importer required? And where does an inspection company provide value to the importer?
China employment compliance and audits: THE new big thing
Posted: March 08, 2017
Your job as a China employer is to get out in front on compliance as well. The best way to do this is to have an independent audit conducted on your employer-employee situation.
Power-packed Global Sources Summit Agenda
Posted: March 07, 2017
The Global Sources Summit returns in April packed with sourcing insights and actionable strategies from industry experts.
China supplier vetting, part 4: On-site, subjective evaluations
Posted: March 06, 2017
The key is to not only ask questions and listen to what they say, but also observe. Have your own agenda and you will get a much better idea of how good they are.
Overcoming quality challenges when selling on Amazon FBA
Posted: March 03, 2017
Take note of the six unavoidable quality challenges when selling on Amazon FBA goods sourced in China.
China trademark lawyers and timely renewals
Posted: March 01, 2017
Choose your China IP counsel wisely and consider maintaining your own IP calendaring system as well. And don't be late.
Chinese factories designing, branding, and selling on Amazon: Q&A
Posted: February 27, 2017
I asked Fredrik Gronkvist of China Importal for his opinion on the trend of Chinese factories selling on Amazon.
China and the unpredictable negotiator
Posted: February 24, 2017
Chinese negotiators tend to shift from guanxi-seeking partner to cut-throat competitor mode when confronted with an unpredictable counter-party.
China trademarks: Counterfeit goods and parallel imports
Posted: February 22, 2017
China does not have a clearly articulated position on the legality of parallel imports for trademarked goods, but courts have generally held that selling such goods in China does not constitute trademark infringement.
China supplier vetting, part 3: Evaluating engineering capability
Posted: February 20, 2017
If you want to work with a Chinese manufacturer to develop a new product, you need to evaluate their engineering capability.
Quote & order monitoring around China holiday season
Posted: February 17, 2017
When the factory comes back to work, realize that the quote you have in-hand, is subject to change.
11 common mistakes of DIY importers [VIDEO]
Posted: February 15, 2017
Reduce sourcing risks by taking note of these 11 common mistakes committed by DIY importers, as shared by Guided Imports.
China manufacturing gone bad
Posted: February 15, 2017
Have your manufacturing agreement forbid your China manufacturer from making or selling your product and from using your trade name or your logos.
The 7 major risks you run with your China manufacturers
Posted: February 13, 2017
The major risks that experienced importers run, when working with a new manufacturer in China, are mostly related to issues of motivation and trust.
What is quality control for importers sourcing in China
Posted: February 10, 2017
A robust quality control plan should be used to ensure specifications and quality expectations are met within each and every order.
Six hugely common China law problems AND their solutions
Posted: February 08, 2017
Here are six of the most common problems our China attorneys see, all of which can almost always cost-effectively be avoided by doing "the right thing" early on.
China supplier vetting, part 2: Questions to ask before a visit
Posted: February 06, 2017
The next step is to ask them a number of questions that will disqualify them if they are a poor fit for your needs and that will warn you if you are a poor fit for them.
4 things to consider when your supplier quotes a high price
Posted: February 03, 2017
Before you write off a supplier based on a "high price" here are 4 considerations to ponder.
8 steps to import quality products from China
Posted: February 01, 2017
Pre-production, in-process and pre-shipment inspection are the most effective ways to prevent poor quality products from being shipped.
China supplier vetting, part 1: Background checks
Posted: January 30, 2017
You can check the company's legitimacy and reputation on the internet, in government databases, and through service providers.
5 on-site product tests for garment inspection
Posted: January 27, 2017
Garment inspection is one of the best ways to verify the quality of a clothing item before it leaves the factory.
Conferences in Hong Kong and Shenzhen in 2017
Posted: January 25, 2017
Two trade shows in South China will offer conferences in April that might interest buyers.
Super common China contract mistakes
Posted: January 23, 2017
Translating a contract into Chinese does not make the contract appropriate for China.
How long does a custom product development take in China?
Posted: January 20, 2017
When you are planning, the actual timescale is a least twice as long as the initial estimated timescales for your project plan.
3 mistakes importers make with quality control checklists
Posted: January 18, 2017
QC checklists eliminate ambiguity by providing clear, black and white standards for your product.
Timing before and after the Chinese New Year
Posted: January 16, 2017
Here are some reminders on timing during this time period and what to look out for.
6 steps and 1 key to reduce subcontracting risks in China
Posted: January 13, 2017
You don't want to give so much work to one factory that they can't get it done internally.
Pilar Newman dishes on Amazon success and her new online course
Posted: January 11, 2017
Newman talks with Global Sources about her nine years selling on Amazon and explains why anyone can become successful on the platform.
An innovative approach to stopping China counterfeits!??
Posted: January 11, 2017
Not only must you file for a China trademark for your brands and your logos, but you should also then register your granted China trademark with China customs to stem counterfeits of your products from leaving China.
6 ways to avoid disruption on import business during Chinese New Year
Posted: January 09, 2017
Clearly, the impact of Chinese New Year on any import business is enormous, making it more important than ever to well prepare your order and implement a robust quality control strategy in China.
How to comply with legal requirements for clothing labeling
Posted: January 06, 2017
Without proper labeling, the customs authority of the country you're exporting to might forbid you to distribute there.
Online sellers conference is back with new speakers, new topics
Posted: January 04, 2017
At the Global Sources Summit, online and Amazon sellers can learn actionable strategies to grow their online and Amazon business.
Getting China manufacturers to pay certification costs
Posted: January 04, 2017
The big boys' strategy is generally to push testing costs up the supply chain. In other words, to have the manufacturers and their sub-suppliers to pay for testing and certification, but in a way that can be traced and verified.
China etiquette: THE guide
Posted: January 02, 2017
This is a great book (indeed, an almost necessary book) for anyone new or relatively new to doing business in China. It also makes for an excellent refresher for China veterans.
Obstacles in importing promotional products from China
Posted: December 30, 2016
For Western-based companies starting to buy offshore; here's a picture of some of the initial obstacles you may face.
Analyzing differences in measurements with your factory
Posted: December 28, 2016
Finding out the "why" is not easy. One can do a lot of 'armchair' inductive reasoning
Amazon speaks at Global Sources' most recent meetup for online sellers
Posted: December 27, 2016
The objective of these events is to increase awareness of Global Sources among this increasingly important and fast-growing buyer segment, and to engage with them to better understand their needs.
A close look at procurement and procurement services
Posted: December 26, 2016
If procurement does not receive the prominence it deserves in any organization, there are bound to be problems which make it imperative to get insight on the same.
Supplier & buyer communication in China sourcing
Posted: December 23, 2016
When both sides increase understanding, both sides are then working with a higher quality product.
Changes during the sampling phase
Posted: December 21, 2016
These changes, albeit needed, also bring about another wave of phenomena in your China project management that you want to be on guard for.
How Amazon FBA sellers should control quality in China
Posted: December 19, 2016
Buyers should take the right steps to ensure product quality more upstream in their purchasing & development process.
Why most importers don't rely on factory QC staff for inspection
Posted: December 16, 2016
Relying on the factory's own staff to conduct inspection can be a solution for some importers. But for many others, factory staff alone don't provide the clarity and insight they need.
China product development and manufacturing rights
Posted: December 14, 2016
When the Chinese side takes the position that it will retain the rights to the underlying technology in your product, your next step is to try to negotiate a license to that technology.
Top 7 expert tips on shipping from China
Posted: December 12, 2016
Learn what happens, how and who affects the shipping process and where you fit in.
Chinese New Year sourcing best practices from China
Posted: December 09, 2016
If you are an Amazon seller or importer and source from China, then this time of year can be a huge headache because Chinese factories will shut down anywhere from two weeks to a month.
How to classify defects for garment inspection
Posted: December 09, 2016
Understanding the different types of quality defects for garments and how to classify them is the first step to preventing or greatly reducing them.
Product sourcing in China: 8 tricks for small businesses to keep costs down
Posted: December 07, 2016
You know clearly that well begun is half done, and I hope you will also agree with when I say costing down your product sourcing is already half the success for your business.
Trade shows in Hong Kong & Guangzhou – April 2017
Posted: December 06, 2016
Here are dates and key product categories of April 2017 sourcing exhibitions in Hong Kong and Guangzhou.
Why importers must understand the 5 types of suppliers In China
Posted: December 02, 2016
By understanding each category importers can identify which supplier is suited to manufacturing their product in terms of price, risk, and quality.
5 important habits when working with overseas suppliers
Posted: November 30, 2016
When every order becomes painful and mired with the same problems, a little digging will show that person doesn't consistently apply the right habits.
Real-time inspection updates on Wechat/Whatsapp? Really?
Posted: November 28, 2016
That's one of those ideas that sound nice but that are actually bad 99% of the time.
Making changes once mass production starts
Posted: November 25, 2016
Knowing the production path will give you insight on when changes can take place without causing something catastrophic.
Incoterms in plain English: A freight shipping guide
Posted: November 24, 2016
Freight incoterms are the standard contract term used in sales contracts with importing/exporting to define responsibility and liability for shipment of the goods.
Global Sources refines site search experience
Posted: November 23, 2016
Product search now offers two viewing options, thumbnails and image magnification, and easy-to-see price and MOQ information.
Product liability insurance
Posted: November 23, 2016
I'd say anyone importing to the US needs PLI at some point. Be it low risk items or high risk items, it just is better to have as you never know what your customers may do with your product or if there's any fault in manufacturing that you didn't find out during inspection.
T/T payment terms with China factories: Set the right incentives
Posted: November 21, 2016
There is no shortage of payment options. Some are much more favorable to the buyer. And yet, even the most favorable to the buying side include serious risks!
Supplier communication: Look for and give relevant detail
Posted: November 18, 2016
By focusing on relevant detail in your supplier communication you avoid time waste, misunderstanding and even incorrect mass production.
Get better freight service with these ten tips from professionals
Posted: November 16, 2016
There's lots online about selecting a forwarder, less on how to get a better freight service. Instead of relying on blind faith, check out these ten tips on how to get a better freight service.
China manufacturing and how to prevent quality problems
Posted: November 14, 2016
As China makes increasingly more complex products, their ability to engage and get away with quality fade increases as well.
Wire transfer payment terms and China vendors
Posted: November 11, 2016
The more you order with the same vendor, the more you pay invoices on time, the more likely the vendors will extend favorable terms.
How understanding China's manufacturing geography leads to better sourcing results
Posted: November 09, 2016
The information that can be gained through a quick survey of manufacturers and their location is significant and should not be ignored.
Packaging: Think outside (and inside) the box
Posted: November 08, 2016
Sure protecting your shipment is prudent (and boring) but did you know that great packaging can slash costs? Suddenly not so boring, right?
Amazon vendor central vs. seller central
Posted: November 07, 2016
All products sold and fulfilled by Amazon on Amazon are sourced by Vendor Central partners. In this business model you act as a wholesaler to Amazon. Seller Central is a way for third party sellers to sell their products on Amazon. In this business model you sell your product on Amazon.
Sampling is an important part of a random inspection
Posted: November 07, 2016
Skipping sampling might mean not seeing issues that are present on 40% of the goods and declare that defects are below the AQL limits.
Importer or team leader
Posted: November 04, 2016
A safer and more comprehensive view is to see the supplier working for you in the sense of a leader (importer) and production team (supplier).
Why you should (or shouldn't) hire a full-time product inspector
Posted: November 03, 2016
Let's look more closely at why some importers choose to hire full-time staff and others don't to see if this is a viable product QC solution for you.
8 ways to facilitate the quoting process
Posted: November 02, 2016
Here are 8 ways to avoid time loss, misunderstandings and help your supplier be more efficient in the quoting process.
Live Q&A with compliance expert [VIDEO]
Posted: November 02, 2016
Rachel Johnson Greer has over 7 years of Amazon experience where she managed compliance and quality for Amazon's private brands.
How to avoid working with factories that close unexpectedly
Posted: October 28, 2016
Factories that close unexpectedly can leave importers in a serious situation. Not only are they likely to lose the deposit on their order, but they also face a huge setback in finding a new supplier. They basically need to start again from scratch.
Sourcing expert shows best way to walk a trade show [VIDEO]
Posted: October 28, 2016
Meghla Bhardwaj of Global Sources follows Gary around the Global Sources Mobile Electronics show.
Million-dollar Amazon seller on how to build a Private Label brand through wholesale [VIDEO]
Posted: October 28, 2016
Will Tjernlund advised sellers to approach traditional brands and ask to represent them on Amazon.
Top mistakes made when selling an Amazon business [VIDEO]
Posted: October 27, 2016
Coran Woodmass, founder of The FBA Broker, says in order to prepare your business for sale, you need to get accounting in place.
Jewelry & accessories manufacturers in China: A complete guide
Posted: October 26, 2016
Whenever some product attributes can be measured, statistical tools can help understand the situation, prioritize improvement efforts, and even help those improvement efforts.
Promotional item RFQ: Vital components – Part 3
Posted: October 24, 2016
The more accurate the promo item RFQ, the higher the possibility the vendor is able to provide an accurate price quote.
Key takeaways from October 2016 Global Sources Summit for online sellers
Posted: October 21, 2016
Global Sources CIO Peter Zapf shares important takeaways from the October 2016 Global Sources Summit.
Getting your China products through U.S. Customs: The 101
Posted: October 21, 2016
Compliance with U.S. Customs laws and regulations is critical in avoiding your shipments being detained or seized, and/or penalties assessed.
Basic statistics any Chinese factory can understand
Posted: October 19, 2016
Whenever some product attributes can be measured, statistical tools can help understand the situation, prioritize improvement efforts, and even help those improvement efforts.
Stylistic tips for your promo product RFQ – Part 2
Posted: October 17, 2016
From the beginning, work to optimize your promo product RFQ.
Buying in Asia and selling on eBay & Amazon: By Mike Michelini
Posted: October 14, 2016
Learn how Mike built his five figure bar accessory online businesses on Amazon and eBay – from the ground up.
3 reasons to conduct production monitoring
Posted: October 12, 2016
Production monitoring, having an inspector at the factory regularly, gives a fuller picture of what's happening not only at one place, but throughout the factory.
Things to include in your promotional product RFQ – Part 1
Posted: October 10, 2016
An effective RFQ is the start of a successful China sourcing project. As we all know the RFQ is the "request for quotation" and it's basically when you contact the supplier to provide you a quote.
Product labeling regulations in the US, the EU and Australia
Posted: October 07, 2016
Labeling requirements are usually just one of many requirements that importers must fulfill to ensure compliance with certain regulations.
5 keys to successful sourcing from China
Posted: October 05, 2016
If you're going to invest in sourcing products from China, you'd be wise to practice due diligence.
How to scale your (Amazon) business
Posted: October 03, 2016
Don't over optimize your listings – spend the time on developing new products. Build more income streams, especially passive money.
Intellectual property (IP) protection when importing from China
Posted: September 30, 2016
Intellectual Property (IP) theft is a main concern for Startups and Small businesses importing from China, and other Asian countries.
China compliance: A basic checklist
Posted: September 28, 2016
Now seems like the right time to talk about what WFOEs, joint ventures, representative offices should be doing to protect themselves on the compliance front.
How to know if your China factory is good?
Posted: September 26, 2016
At CMC we have developed a self-assessment tool that will help you pinpoint in what areas their performance is good, average, and below average.
Trade shows in Hong Kong 2016: A complete guide
Posted: September 23, 2016
In this article, we explain what you must know about upcoming Hong Kong trade shows during the Fall 2016.
Another batch of possible changes during the China sourcing process
Posted: September 21, 2016
Because the human element is involved, from RFQ to delivery, something is very likely to get off course.
Air shipment for offshore promo orders
Posted: September 19, 2016
Did you know that for a certain type and large portion of promotional orders, air shipment is more economic and efficient than sea freight?
Importing sunglasses & eyewear from China: A complete guide
Posted: September 16, 2016
In this guide, you'll learn what you must know before getting started, including how to select the right eyewear manufacturer.
How to guarantee quality [VIDEO]
Posted: September 15, 2016
Asia Quality Focus quality manager Habib Rhka explained in a presentation how importers can guarantee the quality of products sourced in China.
The danger of choosing a "cheap" Chinese factory
Posted: September 15, 2016
One of the biggest mistakes importers make is to work with a "cheap" factory. The price is good, but you need to revise your expectations way, way down.
5 defects for Bluetooth speakers
Posted: September 14, 2016
Knowing these defects for Bluetooth speakers can help you better understand what problems might affect your order.
The magic triangle: Product specifications, sample reviews, and QC inspections
Posted: September 09, 2016
Aside from supplier selection, there are three steps that I feel are indispensable. Most experienced buyers never skip these steps.
13 experts reveal the No. 1 thing that can improve your online business
Posted: September 07, 2016
Summit speakers answer one simple question: "What is the one thing online and Amazon sellers should be doing to improve their business?"
What cross border eCommerce could be bringing your way
Posted: September 02, 2016
While access to millions of potential new customers across the world presents a huge financial opportunity, cross-border eCommerce poses some challenges for merchants more adept at handling domestic orders.
Agenda announced – Global Sources Summit for online & Amazon sellers
Posted: September 01, 2016
The Summit boasts more than 20 sessions spread across three days. Networking opportunities abound as well.
9 mistakes that can kill your import business
Posted: August 30, 2016
Many startups and first time FBA importers do not survive the first year dye to these nine importing mistakes.
Product inspection in Hangzhou during the G20 summit
Posted: August 26, 2016
To reduce risks, you'll need to adapt your quality control strategy and perform any product inspection in Hangzhou at different stages of production.
Strategies for successful China sourcing [VIDEO]
Posted: August 24, 2016
Mike Bellamy of PassageMaker shares important tips to ensure successful China sourcing.
Bring value & motivate your suppliers
Posted: August 24, 2016
With any business, producer to service provider you want the people you contact to be motivated and value the potential business.
The one thing that can save 25% shipping from China to Amazon FBA
Posted: August 22, 2016
Using a freight forwarder is my "one thing" that can save 25% off shipping, eliminate confusion and help you sleep at night.
Wood warping and how to prevent it
Posted: August 19, 2016
Warped wood can be a serious problem for some products, resulting in customer complaints and returns.
NDAs, agreements and having your own tooling in China
Posted: August 17, 2016
Today I wanted to walk you through the process of placing the order with your factory and which steps you need to take to guarantee safe delivery.
Launching a $40 coffee press on Amazon: Every step I took
Posted: August 15, 2016
In this presentation at the Global Sources Summit, Manuel Becvar describes every step he took in launching a $40 French coffee press on Amazon.
Importing from China to Singapore: A complete guide
Posted: August 15, 2016
Keep reading, and learn more about Singaporean product safety, import duties, required permits and taxes.
More on FOB China port
Posted: August 12, 2016
A deftly executed and skillfully manufactured order can delay at the China port if your logistics and booking are not in order.
How-to-steps when prepping and labeling in China
Posted: August 10, 2016
Today I wanted to walk you through the process of placing the order with your factory and which steps you need to take to guarantee safe delivery.
How to choose products that actually sell on Amazon [VIDEO]
Posted: August 09, 2016
In his presentation at the April 2016 Global Sources Summit, Greg Mercer, founder of JungleScout shares advice on selecting profitable niches.
Fundraising on Kickstarter & making in China: How to NOT fail
Posted: August 08, 2016
Many of the products presented on Kickstarter are meant to be made in China. Getting products made in anywhere is not an easy task, and China is even harder.
10 reasons to visit a sourcing trade show in Asia
Posted: August 04, 2016
The decision to visit a sourcing trade show mainly depends on your business model, scale of business, and availability of financial resources. Here are some benefits of visiting a trade show.
Canton Fair invitation letter: How to get one
Posted: August 04, 2016
While there are various ways to obtain a China visa for Canton fair visitors, an invitation letter is possibly the most straightforward way.
China's move up the industrial value chain
Posted: August 03, 2016
By moving toward more value-added manufacturing, China has found itself the exception to the global decline in manufacturing.
Huaqiangbei in the electronics supply chain
Posted: August 01, 2016
If you have an interest in the electronics industry, you need to know about Huaqiangbei.
China supplier communication: Question & answer tips
Posted: July 29, 2016
When communicating with Chinese vendors, there's a better way to handle question and answer process than if you were talking to someone within your own company or own country.
Global Sources app preps buyers for trade shows
Posted: July 27, 2016
The improved app boasts various features that will help buyers map out their trip to attend Global Sources shows.
Thoughts on FOB price term
Posted: July 27, 2016
The goal of this post isn't to get into the technicality of the Incoterms but to provide some practical tips on the FOB concept when sourcing your promotional merchandise from China.
Importing from China to the UK: A complete guide
Posted: July 22, 2016
Read this guide to learn what you must know about product regulations, labelling requirements, import duties and VAT in the United Kingdom.
How to build a brand on Amazon that outlasts Amazon [VIDEO]
Posted: July 21, 2016
Is it possible to build a Private Label brand on Amazon that outlasts Amazon?
What do suppliers do with rejected products?
Posted: July 20, 2016
It helps to understand how your product can end up in unexpected places and what you can do to make sure they're dealt with the right way.
Choosing a quality control company in China
Posted: July 18, 2016
Choosing the right quality control provider may be quite overwhelming at first. That's why we believe it's useful to have a few key factors in mind when making the decision.
Everything about the pre-shipment inspection
Posted: July 15, 2016
Pre-shipment inspection guards against any nasty surprises, and means you know your goods are in working order long before you take delivery — pretty useful if your supplier is halfway around the world.
Sending a regular survey to your Chinese suppliers
Posted: July 13, 2016
Large companies usually send an annual survey to their suppliers. The feedback helps them see opportunities for improvements and gives them data to justify some of those improvements.
How to save money by asking for a quote in a foreign currency
Posted: July 11, 2016
A good first step to getting your best possible pricing is to ask for prices in the home currency of your partner companies.
VAT on imported goods from China: A complete guide
Posted: July 08, 2016
In this article, we help you navigate the complexities of 'Import VAT' when buying from China.
Why do China trademarks matter anyway?
Posted: July 06, 2016
Maybe one out of fifty of our clients has no IP to protect, but the rest do and it is surprising how many of them do not realize the need for them to do so when dealing with China.
Global Sources Summit returns with more sourcing tips, practices
Posted: July 05, 2016
Sourcing pros will talk about C, compliance, logistics and IP protection, and case studies from Amazon resellers.
China factory audits: What questions should you be asking?
Posted: July 04, 2016
Having a good structure for the information you would like to gather from your China product sourcing missions is essential.
The future of manufacturing in China: 3 big trends
Posted: July 01, 2016
In this article, I explain why, on one hand, China will remain a manufacturing powerhouse – and on the other, why you shouldn't worry about your supplier stealing your market share.
6 common quality defects in shoes and how to address them
Posted: June 29, 2016
Whether you're an importer of shoes that wants to improve quality at your factory in Indonesia or an end-consumer picking out a quality pair from a retail store, it helps to know what to look for.
Buyer sourcing approach: Read my mind and do it right!
Posted: June 27, 2016
It seems the typical buyer, once they're getting their feet wet and before they many importing scars, they are still used to how service and communication is on the home front.
How to make a telegraphic transfer (T/T) to a Chinese supplier
Posted: June 24, 2016
This article explains why a slight misspelling could result in tens of thousands of dollars being withheld by the receiving bank.
Assessing Chinese suppliers. What information should you be recording?
Posted: June 22, 2016
A good chunk of your time needs to be invested in analyzing the information that you gather from suppliers in China.
13 mistakes made by the DIY importer
Posted: June 20, 2016
In an effort to create something a little easier to read with actionable tips, I've put together a list of 13 mistakes the DIY importer is bound to make.
Aligning and calibrating in-line and final inspections
Posted: June 17, 2016
Many companies employ a few inspectors in China and, in parallel, pay third-party quality assurance agencies. It makes a lot of sense but is not always done right.
5 steps to successfully deal with suppliers in Asia
Posted: June 15, 2016
The frenzy of April's trade shows is far away now and you collected many contacts for a potential supplier deal in Asia. What do you do next?
5 habits of successful promotional product importers
Posted: June 13, 2016
Those importers who successfully import, have habits that set them apart from the common promo product importer who "wings it" for lack of a better term.
5 common tablet PC defects and how to address them
Posted: June 10, 2016
Being familiar with some of the common quality issues that can affect tablets, you can avoid purchasing a faulty product that doesn't meet your requirements or quality standards.
How to keep product costs down as a startup importer
Posted: June 08, 2016
As a startup, with limited resources, time and money are working against you. In order to succeed, you must go the most out of the small funds you have.
Top 7 benefits of China factory inspections
Posted: June 06, 2016
There are some really simple things you can do to keep lowering risk.
Before you make the deposit payment in China manufacturing
Posted: June 03, 2016
In China manufacturing, make sure there is a level of assurance before you wire the first deposit payment to your supplier.
China product development: What you NEED to know
Posted: June 01, 2016
If you don't pay your Chinese manufacturer to develop your product, the Chinese manufacturer WILL believe (not just tend to believe) that the product the two of you developed together belongs to the Chinese manufacturer and not to you.
Good visual management changes how internal auditing gets done
Posted: May 30, 2016
The key word in "Visual Management" is "Management". A local leader or manager has to look at visuals, understand what process(es) led to the information displayed, and act to get closer to target.
Reasons your quoted price changes
Posted: May 27, 2016
This should really go without saying. A change in spec likely assumes a change in the quoted price.
Buying private label products in China: A complete guide
Posted: May 26, 2016
How hard can it be to just pick a product, send over a logo file and start selling something on Amazon?
Top 3 tips for Amazon FBA sellers shipping from China
Posted: May 25, 2016
I have been talking about shipping from China a lot recently, today let's focus that a bit more for Amazon FBA sellers. I will run through 3 tips on delivering imports to Amazon correctly.
In China sourcing & order control, a follow-up can be…
Posted: May 20, 2016
During your China project and order control, systematic contact with your supplier, brings a world of results.
How to check 100% of a small production batch before shipment
Posted: May 18, 2016
There are three important conditions to reap the full benefits of a 100% inspection.
Importing from China: An average snapshot of your first order
Posted: May 16, 2016
Once you have had that great idea to start importing from China, it would be good to know what to expect from your ?rst order.
5 common fabric defects and how to prevent them
Posted: May 13, 2016
Where do these kinds of fabric defects come from? And how can you prevent them from negatively impacting the quality of your products?
How 3PL automation can bolster your business's growth
Posted: May 12, 2016
A 3PL is an outsourced warehouse that provides you with most or all logistics services for your online business.
Checking buyer reference when buying from Chinese suppliers
Posted: May 11, 2016
We explain why many Chinese suppliers aren't overly keen on sharing information about their existing buyers, and why you are part of the problem.
6 expert tips on how to source from China
Posted: May 10, 2016
A good beginning really is half the work where choosing wisely is very important in lowering your risk.
Pre-production sample order terms: A complete guide
Posted: May 06, 2016
Developing pre-production samples is the only way to truly test the viability of a new design, and the manufacturers capability to produce it.
Promo item sourcing: Reviewing supplier price quotes
Posted: May 05, 2016
Thoughtfully reviewing supplier price quotes will avoid some of the inefficiencies that plague the importing process.
3 ways to monitor environmental management systems
Posted: May 04, 2016
There are a few widely recognized certifications for environmental management systems that you can use to make sure your suppliers are meeting standards set by your retailers and distributors.
Importing from China to the United States: A complete guide
Posted: May 03, 2016
This article explains what startups and small businesses must know about US product regulations, labelling requirements and transportation restrictions.
Getting production photos from your supplier
Posted: May 03, 2016
When it comes to sample images, images of the facility or production photo, a large portion of suppliers lack concept as to "why" a buyer finds these images of interest.
How to attend a trade show like a pro
Posted: May 02, 2016
Find the right suppliers, ask the right questions, and find the right product at the right price.
Having troubles shipping batteries by plane? Here is why
Posted: May 02, 2016
The culprit is low-cost lithium-ion batteries that are produced by companies with low standards — not by established brands such as Sony or Panasonic.
Supply chain security, beyond QR codes & RFID: Q&A with an expert
Posted: April 29, 2016
I had the opportunity to ask a few questions to Hugo Garcia-Cotte, CEO of Cypheme, a company that helps control what really happens in a company's supply chain.
Trade shows in Hong Kong & Guangzhou October 2016
Posted: April 28, 2016
Plan ahead with the help of this October 2016 Hong Kong/Guangzhou trade show calendar.
How to conquer China payment scams
Posted: April 28, 2016
The bank switch scam is the most common, most pernicious and most difficult to detect.
Establishing a potential China supplier's interest
Posted: April 27, 2016
Learning to gauge a potential China supplier's interest will help you save time and headache in your initial RFQ stages.
3 China sourcing mistakes you don't want to make
Posted: April 26, 2016
China sourcing can be an easy process so long as you avoid some common China sourcing mistakes importers are known to make.
Understanding MOQ — The supplier's perspective
Posted: April 25, 2016
It all comes back to costs and constraints. What additional costs will the supplier incur to support an order? Will any of the upstream component or raw material vendors impose any kind of MOQ requirements?
Product design and manufacturing – Well begun is half done!
Posted: April 22, 2016
In order to reach the final goal (in this case a product that represents what was intended at the beginning), it's necessary that the design is detail-oriented.
What regulatory standards apply to garments?
Posted: April 21, 2016
If you import products from another country, you should be aware of the regulations that apply to those products.
5 qualities of a good supplier
Posted: April 20, 2016
While you'd be hard pressed to find any supplier that's perfect, if you've found one with these five qualities, you can be confident you've found a relatively good one.
Take Aways from the Smart China Sourcing Summit
Posted: April 19, 2016
My take-aways from Day 1 of the Global Sources Smart China Sourcing Summit. Can't get them all in, but here are some of my favorites.
Price quote questions in promotional item sourcing
Posted: April 18, 2016
Some of these questions may be answered inside the other areas of the price quote. Thoroughly read the entire quote sheet before formulating your questions.
3 tips for stronger supplier relationships
Posted: April 15, 2016
Cultivating a healthy partnership with a supplier isn't as hard as it seems. It just takes some familiarity with a few guiding principles.
Sourcing in Asia – 5 critical mistakes to avoid
Posted: April 14, 2016
Protect yourself against delivery delay, scams, money loss or poor quality products by avoiding the following five common mistakes when sourcing in Asia.
China sourcing & importing excuses buyers make
Posted: April 13, 2016
If you find yourself mumbling these curses, button your lip and think about "How am I going to fix it next time?".
What to do after a quality problem with a Chinese factory?
Posted: April 12, 2016
Many importers have the wrong reaction and count on their supplier to get their act together.
Buying LED bulb lights from Chinese manufacturers: A complete guide
Posted: April 11, 2016
Learn more about buying Private label LED bulbs, assessing suppliers and technical specifications.
How to solve your China production problems
Posted: April 08, 2016
Simple tools have been widely known for several decades and can help greatly with improvement.
How to get a 'good' price and other sourcing questions answered [podcast]
Posted: April 07, 2016
Global Sources CIO Peter Zapf gives tips on working out a good price but also reminds listeners of the need to balance price and quality.
Reminders on order documents
Posted: April 07, 2016
When it comes to working with Chinese vendors and being proactive on your order documents, here's some order reminders.
Top 5 on-site tests for watches
Posted: April 06, 2016
It's important for you, as a watch supplier or importer, to ensure that your customers are receiving the level of quality they're paying for.
A pricier China -- Buyers keep faith but smarten strategies
Posted: April 05, 2016
The relationship between buyer and supplier is maturing as the focus expands beyond cost to long-term benefits.
China's new opportunities: Slowdown, what slowdown?
Posted: April 04, 2016
Our law firm has been incredibly busy of late documenting deals, mostly in industries that are flat out booming in China.
Signs that mass production may not go well
Posted: April 01, 2016
If a project doesn't start out with some semblance of smoothness and stride hitting, then it's not going to get any better.
4 powerful tools for China supplier verification
Posted: March 31, 2016
There are many tools out there to verify a potential supplier based in China.
Sourcing smartwatches and wearables in China
Posted: March 30, 2016
It is critical that buyers and importers on record know the factory that makes the products they are selling.
5 ways to assure mass production success
Posted: March 29, 2016
Success in mass production doesn't happen when solely left to the supplier, but it's buyer and supplier working arm-in-arm.
Importing furniture from China in 5 steps
Posted: March 28, 2016
Keep reading, and learn what you must know about finding the right furniture suppliers, relevant trade shows and customization options.
What's the cost to ship a product sample?
Posted: March 23, 2016
What's a reasonable cost to ship a product sample from Asia? There are many courier companies out there in the market, so how do you choose one that's best for you?
Product import budget calculation: A case study
Posted: March 22, 2016
Making a product import budget calculation is far from as easy as simple as counting a profit directly on a quoted FOB price.
Hacking a Chinese trade fair as a buyer (pre-show)
Posted: March 21, 2016
Before you hop on a plane to China, do yourself a favor and take 20 minutes to prepare to save time and headaches so you can maximize your trip.
Timeline in making custom samples
Posted: March 18, 2016
If you're working on a custom project, here is a basic step-by-step guide on some key phases in making custom samples.
5 things a QC company can't control
Posted: March 17, 2016
It's important for you to understand what factors your QC company can't control so that you can address those with your supplier directly
The logistics of exporting from China — air and sea
Posted: March 16, 2016
This time we are writing about the best way to send substantial quantities of products (over 100 kg) out of mainland China.
Doing business in China: Bring your own interpreter
Posted: March 15, 2016
The result of not taking the role of an interpreter seriously is that foreigners often don't know what's going on.
The Chinese New Year and its impact on your business
Posted: March 14, 2016
Let me explain why it is so difficult before and right after Chinese New Year to get factories working on your orders.
How to send small quantities & samples in and out of China
Posted: March 11, 2016
Do you need to send samples to China, or to get small orders out of China? Do you want to avoid headaches and high costs? My colleague Fabien wrote some advice that will probably be helpful.
Stand out from other buyers in your China sourcing
Posted: March 10, 2016
Your competition is not just people in your industry, but it can also be people who work with the same supplier. Here's a few ways to stand out from other buyers.
Trading companies vs. manufacturers in China
Posted: March 09, 2016
When you walk around these factories, you will never know for sure. You're really skillful if you can do that. But you can do a few background checks.
5 reasons offshore promotional product orders fail
Posted: March 08, 2016
If an order starts off bad, chances are it isn't going to get much better. The initial phases of your project are critical to the success of your mass production orders.
Managing the production process in China – Part II: Quality assurance, balance payment & shipment
Posted: March 07, 2016
In this second part, we guide you through the remaining steps of the process.
Global Sources CIO shares key sourcing do's and don'ts [podcast]
Posted: March 04, 2016
Global Sources CIO Peter Zapf talks about what to do and what to avoid during the various stages of the sourcing process.
Changing a spec in your China project? What else changes?
Posted: March 04, 2016
In a China project, if you change one spec during the inquiry and sampling phase, is it a safe assumption that the factory will alert you on the ramifications of the change?
3 ways to handle defective products
Posted: March 03, 2016
The goal here is to get your factory to reduce their frequency of defects and hold them accountable for defects that still occur.
Managing the production process in China – Part I: Sales contract, deposit payment & batch samples
Posted: March 02, 2016
In the first part, we guide you from the negotiation and signing of the sales contract and initial deposit payment, to mass production and batch sample delivery.
Best packaging practice – How to create a great private label packaging!
Posted: March 01, 2016
Here is an overview on how you can improve your packaging and beat the competition.
Engage Chinese suppliers to improve their productivity
Posted: February 26, 2016
Five questions to ask to engage China suppliers in improving productivity.
International payment to Chinese factories: Q&A
Posted: February 24, 2016
I had the opportunity to ask a few questions to Richard Bensberg, an expert in the field of international transactions.
Retro coolers premium merchandise guide
Posted: February 23, 2016
At the change of season, these vintage pieces take on a whole new relevancy. Here is everything you need to know about this exciting line of premium merchandise.
Outdoor wear manufacturers in China: A complete guide
Posted: February 22, 2016
This article gives insights into outdoor wear manufacturing clusters, product specifications and minimum order quantities.
Top 5 on-site tests for porcelain dinnerware
Posted: February 19, 2016
Not only does testing help by verifying supplier claims like "microwave-safe", but it also reveals the true performance and safety of the product.
Finding the right supplier on Global Sources
Posted: February 18, 2016
I have previously written about how to finding the right supplier in China. Today I want to share with you three approaches that you can take when looking through the Global Sources website.
7 soft skills needed for sourcing China suppliers
Posted: February 17, 2016
In sourcing China suppliers, every importer should make use of these tools.
Three keys to spotting a fraudulent Chinese company
Posted: February 16, 2016
I take a look at the annual or quarterly report of the Chinese company and if it meets these three tests, it is virtually certain to be a complete fraud, with no operations, no assets and no funds in the bank.
The ultimate guide to Global Sources Hong Kong exhibition – Free eBook
Posted: February 15, 2016
Tools, tips and strategies to get the most out of your Global Sources show visit.
3 tips for better quality without product inspection
Posted: February 12, 2016
You might be surprised to learn there are other steps you can take to ensure you're getting what you pay for.
QC reporting: How much detail do you need?
Posted: February 11, 2016
Quality inspectors in different companies work in different ways. Some don't report anything in written form, while others spend 2 hours a day doing paperwork.
5 promotional item sourcing tips
Posted: February 10, 2016
I hope these tips shine some light on your offshore buying adventures and help you to avoid pitfalls.
Procurement and purchasing agents in China: A complete guide
Posted: February 09, 2016
This article explains what a procurement agent can be expected to do for your business, and how they differ.
What Chinese factory managers don't understand
Posted: February 05, 2016
Have you ever been in front of a Chinese manager who has misconceived notions, yet won't change his mind? It happens to us all the time.
Suppliers and client emails
Posted: February 04, 2016
The cold fact is that the typical supplier when reading an email, doesn't thoroughly read the message.
Quality control in China ahead of Chinese New Year
Posted: February 03, 2016
Workmanship and product specifications are often neglected and internal Quality Control is no longer ensured
5 common defects in cast iron cookware
Posted: February 02, 2016
Due to its unique properties and the production processes involved compared to other materials, cast iron cookware is vulnerable to more potential defects.
Chinese New Year information
Posted: February 01, 2016
The official holiday, the actual Chinese New Year day, is Monday Feb. 8th. Does that mean everyone works right up until New Year's Eve or Chinese New Year day? Not really…
9 tips for China product sourcing
Posted: January 29, 2016
Sourcing from China can differ from sourcing from the West.
More practicality when reviewing supplier price quotes
Posted: January 28, 2016
Price quotes from China require the buyer (if they want to avoid error) to sit down, think about the project, consider what may go wrong and formulate questions and scenarios in their minds.
Top 5 on-site tests for bags and suitcases
Posted: January 27, 2016
When you receive quotations from Chinese suppliers, do not assume the supplier was precise.
Partners to keep close in China product sourcing & importing
Posted: January 26, 2016
In the world of China product sourcing and importing, partner companies create solid links in your supply chain.
Compliance Q&A with a watch manufacturer: Subcontractors & substance regulations
Posted: January 25, 2016
Learn more about compliance and risks in watch manufacturing – lessons that can be applied to virtually any industry.
How to shape your China procurement strategy
Posted: January 22, 2016
For all those companies that need to source from several Chinese manufacturers, a tradeoff must be made.
How to attend a sourcing show like a pro
Posted: January 21, 2016
Learn the benefits of visiting a trade show, and get tips on making the most out of your trip.
3 key areas of quality control for garments
Posted: January 21, 2016
There are a few specific areas that will be uniquely important to managing garment quality. Here is a breakdown of three of the most important ones.
A practical step in analyzing quotations
Posted: January 20, 2016
When you receive quotations from Chinese suppliers, do not assume the supplier was precise.
What to do when supplier breaks the contract and blackmails your deposit
Posted: January 19, 2016
Don't let them know you suspect anything, find some excuse to delay your formal feedback until you have a chance to better understand the situation.
Product compliance in the LED industry: A case study
Posted: January 18, 2016
Get insider insights into the actual state of EU and US product compliance among LED manufacturers.
Mindset in reviewing China price quotes
Posted: January 15, 2016
Analyze. Dissect. Scrutinize. As a buyer, these words should come to mind whenever you think of China price quotes.
Are your China trademarks dirty?
Posted: January 14, 2016
What a recent LinkedIn post says about domestic companies applies with equal force to foreign companies doing business in China.
How to prevent the factory from swapping the goods after Inspection
Posted: January 13, 2016
There is no perfect solution, unfortunately. But here are eight ideas to reduce the risk.
Tips for beanie sourcing in China
Posted: January 12, 2016
Sending an beanie RFQ to a factory? Here are some tips from our years of manufacturing that I believe will be good reminders.
Importing experts show and tell at Smart China Sourcing summit
Posted: January 11, 2016
Three days of interactive training will enable Amazon and online sellers to source products confidently.
Myth and reality of CE marking when importing from China
Posted: January 08, 2016
Plenty of businesses fail to understand how such documentation is produced, and what it must include.
Setting up a supplier evaluation system that works in China
Posted: January 07, 2016
The supplier evaluation system could be part of a vendor management system IT solution, or it could be in a simple Excel spreadsheet.
3 keys to addressing product quality issues with your supplier
Posted: January 05, 2016
Being specific is one of the keys to addressing product quality issues.
The Chinese New Year: How importers can avoid delays & quality issues
Posted: January 04, 2016
The Chinese New Year of 2016 starts on February 8th. While this is a major event that is still largely unknown outside of Asia, importers are (often painfully) aware of this season.
How to import to the US for international sellers - ship to Amazon directly
Posted: January 04, 2016
Two of the questions I receive the most is: "Can I sell on Amazon US as an international seller" and "Can I send my order directly from the factory directly to Amazon"?
Alarm systems manufacturers in China: A complete guide
Posted: December 31, 2015
Learn more about alarm systems production clusters in Mainland China, and applicable regulations and standards in the EU and the US.
Why can't China make a good ballpoint pen?
Posted: December 30, 2015
If you are doing anything related to manufacturing in China or anywhere else, this is the one article you should read this year.
Managing QC Inspectors, Part 8: QC vs. QA
Posted: December 28, 2015
The QA team tries to make everything go smooth. The QC team keeps the factories and the QA team honest and effective by checking their work. I think it makes a lot of sense.
Eight questions importers need to ask before ordering a hoverboard in China
Posted: December 17, 2015
The list is not intended to cover everything but to provide a starting point for further detailed dialogue with the factory.
5 ways the smartest importers cut inspection costs
Posted: December 16, 2015
You might save a bit of money in the short term by forgoing inspection. But any issues with your finished product after it reaches distribution centers – or worse, your customers – might have you wishing you'd made the relatively small investment in quality control beforehand.
Managing QC Inspectors, Part 7: The quality manager in China
Posted: December 15, 2015
Many companies in China have difficulties finding the right quality manager.
The purpose of your China factory contact person
Posted: December 14, 2015
Visualize and treat your factory contact (the salesperson you frequently deal with) as an extension of your own team.
"Making it" in China – The factory workers that make your products
Posted: December 10, 2015
What kind of life are Chinese factory workers living? What opportunities or challenges does factory life present them?
Managing QC inspectors, Part 6: Planning the inspections
Posted: December 09, 2015
Some companies let factories and inspectors set the planning freely among themselves, and I think that's a big mistake.
Holidays, China mass production scheduling and….quality?
Posted: December 08, 2015
If something is affecting production scheduling, generally, especially in the lower to mid-cost arena, it's only a few degrees away from affecting the quality.
6 must-know facts about Yiwu's wholesale market
Posted: December 07, 2015
If you want to learn about Yiwu, plan to visit the city for business or want to learn more about trading in China in general, then you will find this article quite practical.
A beginners guide to importing electronics from China
Posted: December 03, 2015
You will want to buy from factories that are either compliant already or are willing to work together with you to get the product compliant.
Top 5 common mistakes made during product inspection
Posted: December 03, 2015
Know that there are steps taken to minimize these mistakes.
3 things you must do to hang on to your molds
Posted: December 02, 2015
If you want to position yourself to be able to hang on to your mold, there are some relatively simple and inexpensive steps you should take.
How to negotiate up to a 5% price cut with Chinese suppliers in one email
Posted: December 02, 2015
Now is the time to renegotiate pricing with your suppliers to take advantage of the depreciation and get a price cut.
Managing QC inspectors, Part 5: Avoiding bribery
Posted: December 01, 2015
I touch on the evaluation of quality inspectors, and it naturally brings up the topic of bribery.
4 tips for production launch of an electronic product in China
Posted: November 26, 2015
These days it seems more and more "hardware startups" are coming to Shenzhen and working with Chinese manufacturers to launch production of electronic products.
Overcoming supplier communication obstacles
Posted: November 25, 2015
A primary obstacle, if not the heart of all obstacles, is understanding where your supplier is coming from.
Managing QC inspectors, part 4: Evaluating their performance
Posted: November 24, 2015
You need a method to evaluate their performance in order to know who should receive a bonus and/or a raise… and who should be let go.
Essential dishwasher testing for kitchenware
Posted: November 23, 2015
Product inspections performed at factories to verify quality also typically include dishwasher testing for kitchenware to verify this claim.
Trade shows in Hong Kong & Guangzhou April 2016
Posted: November 13, 2015
Here are dates and key product categories of sourcing exhibitions being held in Hong Kong and Guangzhou in April, 2016.
EU compliance updates: Finger paint recall, and more
Posted: November 13, 2015
Find out why the DVMA ordered the recall of finger paints from consumers and shops in ProductIP's August EU compliance updates.
How to use retailer standards for social compliance
Posted: November 05, 2015
Importers and retailers are often faced with the choice of using lower cost suppliers for manufacturing that follow poor labor practices or higher cost suppliers that are more socially responsible.
How to get clearer confirmations from your China supplier
Posted: November 04, 2015
Confirmations passed down the line from supplier to client should not immediately be taken at face value.
Managing QC inspectors, Part 3: Training, coaching, and auditing
Posted: November 03, 2015
I listed 7 ways inspectors can fail to notice quality problems, which included 4 issues that good training, coaching, and auditing should mostly eradicate.
Chinese supplier got my deposit, now ignores me. What to do?
Posted: November 02, 2015
If you wish to get the order shipped with this supplier, but reduce your risk, you could consider linking the supplier's performance to you payment.
5 simple Chinese phrases for bettering your relationships
Posted: October 29, 2015
A small effort made in learning a bit of your suppliers' native language can go a long way to building rapport and helping you form lasting relationships.
How to keep your China manufacturer motivated and why that matters
Posted: October 28, 2015
I have become convinced that those who put in real time and effort at establishing a good relationship with their China suppliers tend to have far fewer supply problems than those who just phone it in.
Managing QC inspectors, part 2: Checklist and equipment
Posted: October 27, 2015
Without a list of checkpoints to follow, an inspector has to rely too much on his/her memory and tends to lack a proper structure to follow.
How often should you visit your suppliers?
Posted: October 26, 2015
How often should you visit your suppliers? The short answer: Not very often.
"Not enough time" for product inspection?
Posted: October 22, 2015
Maintaining an open line of communication with regular following-up between the supplier contact and you, the buyer, is vital after production has begun.
8 red flags your RFQ tells supplier to "Work for Free"
Posted: October 21, 2015
Here are eight flags importers and buyers frequently wave that tell the supplier to "work for free," quenching the fire of the supplier motivation.
The effective China contract: Liquidated damages
Posted: October 20, 2015
Writing a liquidated damages provision for a China contract is two parts art and eight parts experience.
Managing QC inspectors, part 1: The hiring process
Posted: October 19, 2015
Part 1 is about hiring a team of inspectors. What profiles should you look for, how should you evaluate them, and who should manage them?
How to protect against copies when you manufacture in China
Posted: October 15, 2015
One of China's major weaknesses is its lack of respect of intellectual property rights. It means many importers have to face a challenge: the emergence of copies of their proprietary products.
Product inspection and lab testing to verify quality of materials
Posted: October 14, 2015
By performing regular checks throughout production, or by working with a trusted third-party QC company, you can be sure the materials used in your product meet specifications.
Purchase orders and the promotional product buyer
Posted: October 07, 2015
For the promotional product buyer the PO should simply be a green light that shows you are ready to start the order. The document probably serves more purposes internally in your own company than it does with the vendor.
What to sell on Amazon: Advice from a successful private label seller
Posted: October 05, 2015
First determine if an Amazon market is suitable, then find and determine if the product ticks all of the boxes in the checklist so you can maximize your profits.
Podcast: Go inside China manufacturing with Global Sources CIO Peter Zapf
Posted: October 02, 2015
In a recent Seller Dojo podcast, Global Sources CIO Peter Zapf shared his insights on how to pick the right supplier, why visiting trade shows is good for buyers and the future of private labeling on Amazon.
Social compliance audits – 4 key areas they unveil
Posted: September 30, 2015
Social compliance audits are one of the most powerful tools used to ensure a factory is abiding by local laws and following an ethical and moral business culture.
How to pack goods for transit
Posted: September 28, 2015
It's worth taking the time to get the packaging right in order to make your customers happy and, ultimately, save your business money.
How to prevent your Chinese suppliers from subcontracting
Posted: September 23, 2015
The vast majority of Chinese manufacturers routinely subcontract some orders. The problem is, they usually do it without disclosing the reality to their customer.
Tips & tricks for using GlobalSources.com from an importer with 10 years' experience
Posted: September 21, 2015
In his webcast, ImportDojo's Manuel Becvar gives tips on how he uses Global Sources.
PayPal payments & general payment terms
Posted: September 16, 2015
Many factories won't accept PayPal payments mostly because of the fees and because it is difficult to withdraw money in China from PayPal.
5 tips for visiting factories in China
Posted: September 14, 2015
This is the time to get a real feel for the people you might be working with in the near future. However, if you're not prepared for your visit, you could miss out on making the most of your trip.
What not to do when negotiating with Chinese businesses
Posted: September 09, 2015
People who want to do business in China would do well to remember that the country has a different culture and rules of etiquette.
Not necessarily signs of a bad supplier
Posted: September 07, 2015
Here is a brief list of signs, that although may look concerning, are not necessarily indications of a bad supplier.
10 industries China favors
Posted: September 03, 2015
Here's why each of these industries will do well over the next 10 years.
5 misconceptions about QC in China
Posted: September 01, 2015
By learning about these errors in thought, you'll be better prepared to manufacture in China, achieve consistent product quality, and encounter fewer surprises.
Food safety standards: ISO 22001, HACCP, GMP
Posted: August 27, 2015
For a food factory, there are 3 steps in a logical progress, from GMP to HACCP and finally to ISO 22001.
The case for single source procurement
Posted: August 19, 2015
The new mindset is to find a good supplier and keep a consistent, conflict-free, mutually beneficial, and long term cooperation between the two companies.
Start-ups, here's what you need to go into manufacturing
Posted: August 17, 2015
Having a great idea for a new product is exciting! When you believe you've stumbled onto something truly unique, you'll be eager to get started turning it into a real product.
Tablets for QC inspection: iPad, Android, or Windows?
Posted: August 14, 2015
A comparison of the three big alternatives would be interesting.
Register your trademark In China: Now. Just ask Mike
Posted: August 12, 2015
China is a first to file country, which means that, with very few exceptions, whoever files for a particular trademark in a particular category gets it.
Manufacturing in India vs. China
Posted: August 10, 2015
This article will give you a clearer idea of whether or not manufacturing in India is the right move for you and your unique situation.
Production & lead time in Asia: A complete guide
Posted: August 07, 2015
This blog post will guide you through the four phases of production, quality assurance and delivery.
Amazon does not tolerate low quality Chinese products
Posted: August 05, 2015
Buy products in China and selling them on Amazon as a Third Party Seller can form the basis of a strong, profitable business. But there is very little tolerance for quality issues.
Air freight & courier from China – Basics, strategies & issues
Posted: August 05, 2015
New importers often do not understand the difference between"couriers" & "air freight."
Timing control in China manufacturing wrap up
Posted: August 04, 2015
Did you know that timing blunders can also hurt the quality of production?
Payment methods when importing from China – Complete guide
Posted: July 31, 2015
The payment method and the process can spell the difference between success and failure when buying from overseas suppliers.
What's a "chop" and why is it important for contracts in China when sourcing?
Posted: July 29, 2015
Every company in China has a company chop. It's a physical ink stamp that is used on a frequent basis to authorize documents.
Color fastness test on dyed yarn fabric
Posted: July 27, 2015
The color fastness test is one of the most popular, in the textile industry, during a first article inspection, production inspection or pre-shipment inspection.
Buying in China and selling on Amazon - Part 3: Product guidelines
Posted: July 24, 2015
In this third part, we guide you through Amazon's Product Guidelines, which are part of Amazon's Seller Policy.
5 uncommon reasons for sea shipping delays from China
Posted: July 22, 2015
Here are 5 less-common reasons that can lead to delays with your shipments. Many of these are factors that can't really be planned for.
8 questions for doing business in China
Posted: July 20, 2015
The China lawyers at my firm are often asked what foreign companies should know and do to stay out of legal trouble in China.
Buying in China and selling on Amazon – Part 2: Meeting seller performance targets
Posted: July 17, 2015
Your success, or failure, in meeting these Seller Performance Targets is directly dependent on how you manage your purchasing strategy.
Top 5 tests for mobile phones (slideshow)
Posted: July 15, 2015
Display, touch panel and Wi-Fi tests are three of the five tests you need to do on your next mobile phones inspection.
Australia's import trade with China
Posted: July 15, 2015
According to the Queensland Government Statistician's Office, Australia's total imports from other countries stands at $251.6 billion per year. Out of this, $49.3 billion comes from China, or 19.8 percent of total imports.
"Well, we've got time…"
Posted: July 13, 2015
This line of thinking and usual accompanying casualness actually CAUSE mass production delays. There are projects where timing looks to be sufficiently on your side.
Buying in China and Selling on Amazon – Part 1: Shipping & Logistics
Posted: July 10, 2015
This article explains what importers must know about shipping and logistics, when buying in China and selling on Amazon.com.
Warning: inspection of goods with sealed packaging
Posted: July 08, 2015
Waiting until the very last minute, before shipping, to inspect goods packed in a sealed packaging is taking the risk of having to inspect a smaller sample size than the one required.
Are there many fake ISO 9001 certifications in China?
Posted: July 06, 2015
While I know there are many fake product certificates, I don't think there are many fake ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or ISO/TS16949 certificates.
How to get suppliers in China to respond to your e-mails?
Posted: July 03, 2015
Five ways to improve your response rate when contacting suppliers with requests for quotations.
How to protect your brand in Vietnam; China too
Posted: July 01, 2015
Tips that provide protection for your brands in Vietnam apply with equal force to China.
Product testing costs when buying from Asia – A complete guide
Posted: June 29, 2015
This article guides you through the different types of compliance test and their respective cost structure.
Indonesia's fashion industry continues to be top contributor among the country's creative sectors
Posted: June 25, 2015
The fashion accessory sector in Indonesia remains to be a top contributor to the country's fashion industry.
Furniture suppliers in Indonesia investing in marketing amid stiff industry competition
Posted: June 25, 2015
Indonesia furniture makers are trying to expand their market reach by participating in more trade shows and online marketing.
Responsibility in China manufacturing
Posted: June 24, 2015
Responsibility in China manufacturing is primarily an on-going, over-arching thought pattern and motivation behind your decisions.
Home decor suppliers in India explore marketing venues to remain competitive
Posted: June 23, 2015
The home decor suppliers in India are exploring other venues to expand their clientele due to increasingly tough competition from other sourcing hubs in Asia.
REACH compliance & restricted chemicals when importing from China
Posted: June 22, 2015
This article explains how you can determine if REACH testing is necessary, and how you can ensure compliance.
Product labeling regulations in the US, EU and Australia
Posted: June 19, 2015
Neglecting labeling regulations can result in your products being refused entry by the customs authorities, or subject to a forced recall.
Price change shock in China sourcing
Posted: June 18, 2015
Make it you duty to hover over that price. Watch over your quote, question your quote, make sure what was quoted is what's being implemented.
Product testing and certification when buying from China
Posted: June 17, 2015
This article explains why testing is critical when importing from China, when the time is right to test your product and how you should manage a failed test.
China signs of fraud
Posted: June 05, 2015
We see so much fraud/attempted fraud in our practice that we can usually (but not always) spot a fraud within minutes just by looking at the documents the victim or potential victim has been provided.
CE marking when importing from China: A complete guide
Posted: June 04, 2015
In this article, we explain the basics of CE marking, including documentation, labeling requirements, regulated products and major EN/EC directives.
Restricted substances: 5 challenges when buying from China
Posted: May 29, 2015
In this article, we explain how your business is affected by substance restrictions, and how you can migrate your risks when buying from China and other Asian countries.
Factory role during an inspection
Posted: May 28, 2015
The Quality Inspector needs manpower in order to proceed with the inspection within the limited amount of time available.
WEEE directive: What EU electronics importers must know
Posted: May 27, 2015
The WEEE directive requires products to be designed in a way that simplifies the dismantling, for either recycling or further usage.
Three steps to staying profitable as China labor rates increase
Posted: May 25, 2015
Stop counting individual worker productivity and start counting overall output.
10 causes of shipping delays from China
Posted: May 22, 2015
Some of these causes are avoidable and we look at what we can do to avoid or minimise the risk of these delays while others are simply unavoidable.
5 alternatives to sourcing from China
Posted: May 21, 2015
The real question is which country is best – or, more to the point, which country is best for you?
All you need to know about the new BIS regulation on importing LED lights to India
Posted: May 20, 2015
The BIS product certificate scheme provides QA certification and the use of ISI marks to producers who conform to the quality standards mandated by BIS.
Build of pre-production tooling – Part 11
Posted: May 18, 2015
In many cases, manufacturing a new product necessitates the preparation of custom tooling. This is an important step.
Importing commercial goods into Canada
Posted: May 15, 2015
Canada has strict rules and procedures that you must adhere to when importing commercial goods. Here we will outline the key aspects to consider when importing into Canada.
8 phrases to eliminate in your China sourcing
Posted: May 13, 2015
These phrases are reflective of problematic patterns from buyers that hurt the success of an import project.
Design review iterations (New product development) – Part 10
Posted: May 11, 2015
An iterative cycle would include a design review where all the test data are presented and analyzed.
Minimizing risk through payment terms negotiation with Chinese suppliers
Posted: May 08, 2015
Ideally, in every transaction there would be a 50-50 sharing of risk but in practice, that is hardly the case.
China consultant or all knowing China expert
Posted: May 06, 2015
Many China consultants are falling dangerously short in various other legal aspects of their business as well.
Product functional testing before China production – Part 9
Posted: May 04, 2015
Functional testing should be carried out at a sub-system level that tests the functionality of the small bits and a full system test for the entire product functionality.
China IP: Is your barn door open?
Posted: May 01, 2015
The initial meetings when the US company is euphoric about its China opportunities is where my firm's China lawyers most often see IP go out the window.
Quality of ceramic products: grade A, B, C
Posted: April 29, 2015
The quality of ceramic products is difficult to gauge because there will almost certainly be defects.
The importance of prototype build before production – Part 8
Posted: April 27, 2015
Having a prototype produced will allow the Engineering and the Design teams to review best practice techniques
5 top tests for tablet PCs (slideshow)
Posted: April 24, 2015
To compete with big industry brands such as Apple, Samsung and Lenovo, tablet PC suppliers must have a solid plan that hinges on high product quality.
Case study: Dealing with MOQ barriers when sourcing customized electronics from China
Posted: April 24, 2015
A China direct option isn't always economically feasible on small order runs.
Beware of brand name scam from China
Posted: April 23, 2015
If you are finding pricing from China that is below what you can find back home, be very careful. Scam artists on the Internet prey on foreign buyers who think they are getting a great deal on genuine products.
China contracts, but with whom?
Posted: April 23, 2015
One of the most important things to determine before entering into a contract with a Chinese company is to make sure that you are contracting with the right company.
Designing physical mechanical parts for China production – Part 7
Posted: April 22, 2015
When it comes to developing hard goods, there are often mechanical parts. They need to be designed before prototypes start to be made.
Unrealistic requests in China sourcing
Posted: April 15, 2015
In China sourcing, a good way to hurt your credibility with factories and potential supplier partners is to make unrealistic requests.
Developing the PCB for a product made in China – Part 6
Posted: April 13, 2015
Let's keep going with the series of articles on new product development. This sub-step is dedicated to products that contain electronics.
Don't make these common mistakes when sourcing from China [Infographic]
Posted: April 10, 2015
You can take advantage of the many opportunities in China and ensure a profitable business relationship with prospective suppliers by managing the risks involved. China sourcing expert Adam Guilbourne lists five common mistakes to avoid when sourcing from China.
Reliability of the tension test for toys
Posted: April 10, 2015
The tension test for toys is part of the EN 71 regulation. It is one of the most commonly performed test during a product inspection and at a laboratory. How reliable are those tests? Is one better than the other?
China factory problems: Always YOUR fault?
Posted: April 08, 2015
What about where the Chinese company just up and suddenly shuts down. How can the American or European buyer be blamed for that?
Developing the product – Part 5
Posted: April 06, 2015
During the product development phase the product is designed, built, tested and finalized ready for mass production.
My factory does the QC - Trust the cat to keep the cream?
Posted: April 01, 2015
Most manufacturers in China are ISO 9001 certified and should have trustworthy QA systems in place, including final QC. But in the end, the question remains: When can we trust the cat to keep the cream?
Testing the concept (new product development) – Part 4
Posted: March 30, 2015
This installment in the series of articles helping you through the New Product Development process will focus on concept testing.
How the ChAFTA will affect imports from China to Australia
Posted: March 27, 2015
Importing Chinese goods into Australia has just got a whole lot easier with the implementation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia and China.
China's golden age for foreign companies is over
Posted: March 25, 2015
China today is just not nearly as favorable or easy for foreign companies as it was ten years ago. It just isn't.
The stage 'gate' review meeting in the NPD process – Part 3
Posted: March 23, 2015
In the previous article we mentioned that there should be a Stage Gate Review meeting between each of the development phases. Here we will look at the guidelines for these Stage Gate Reviews.
How to control color fastness on garments
Posted: March 20, 2015
It is compulsory to identify any potential risks of color fastness prior to the production. To do so, the buyer should check the samples received for approval.
Sourcing from Cambodia: Settling trade disputes
Posted: March 20, 2015
This article provides information on resolving disagreements that may arise when purchasing from Cambodia.
Sourcing from Cambodia: Banking, payments & export documentation
Posted: March 20, 2015
This article provides information on Cambodia's banking system and the necessary procedures in purchasing and export documentation.
Sourcing from Cambodia: Finding the right supplier
Posted: March 19, 2015
This article provides information on how to qualify and select suitable export manufacturers in Cambodia.
Sourcing from Cambodia: Industries and products
Posted: March 19, 2015
This article provides information on Cambodia's major export industries.
Sourcing from Myanmar: Settling trade disputes
Posted: March 18, 2015
This article provides information on resolving disagreements that may arise when purchasing from Myanmar.
Sourcing from Myanmar: Banking, payments & export documentation
Posted: March 18, 2015
This article provides information on Myanmar's banking system and the necessary procedures in purchasing and export documentation.
Question your quotes from China
Posted: March 18, 2015
If the buyer starts out from the assumption that their supplier is human and prone to mistakes, this would cause the buyer to proceed with caution in sourcing and buying, leading to fewer quoting (and eventual) quality errors.
Sourcing from Myanmar: Finding the right supplier
Posted: March 17, 2015
This article provides information on how to qualify and select suitable export manufacturers in Myanmar.
Sourcing from Myanmar: Industries and manufacturing centers
Posted: March 17, 2015
This article provides information on Myanmar's major export industries and most important production hubs.
Screening ideas for new product launch – Part 2
Posted: March 16, 2015
The goal is to identify one or two solid potential ideas that can move into Phase 3 and eventually made in China and sold on your target market.
Sourcing from Nepal: Settling trade disputes
Posted: March 16, 2015
This article provides information on resolving disagreements that may arise when purchasing from Nepal.
Sourcing from Nepal: Banking, payments & export documentation
Posted: March 16, 2015
This article provides information on Nepal's banking system and the necessary procedures in purchasing and export documentation.
Sourcing from Nepal: Finding the right supplier
Posted: March 13, 2015
This article provides information on how to qualify and select suitable export manufacturers in Nepal.
Sourcing from Nepal: Industries and manufacturing centers
Posted: March 13, 2015
This article provides information on Nepal's major export industries and most important production hubs.
Don't buy from China if you fit this description
Posted: March 13, 2015
Buying direct from China is not for everybody. This Q&A helps manage expectations.
Developing your own product and getting it to market – Part 1
Posted: March 11, 2015
We are kicking off a series of articles that will take us though each phase and highlight the key aspects and what you should be doing to ensure your product successfully gets to market.
Helping the supplier in improving the quality of goods: Production monitoring
Posted: March 09, 2015
Production monitoring is probably the best solution if the supplier is unable to implement the right corrective actions in order to improve the quality of the manufactured goods.
Drop test of loaded containers (cartons), ASTM D5276
Posted: March 06, 2015
General guidelines exist but the importer is usually asked to define what is acceptable – and what is not.
Sourcing from India: Settling trade disputes
Posted: March 4, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: India, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
8 Chinese New Year resolutions
Posted: March 04, 2015
If you frequently source and import from China, here are 8 Chinese New Year Resolutions to consider.
China contracts: Calling a table a chair is not clever
Posted: March 02, 2015
No government, including the one in China, is going to treat a table as a chair just because you call it that, and the same holds true for contracts.
Sourcing from India: Banking, payments & export documentation
Posted: March 3, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: India, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Sourcing from India: Finding the right supplier
Posted: March 2, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: India, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
3 signs your man in China might be on the take and what you can do about it now
Posted: February 27, 2015
Innumerable pitfalls await the unwary in China. But there are ways to safeguard yourself and your company.
Sourcing from India: Industries and manufacturing centers
Posted: February 27, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: India, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Sourcing from Vietnam: Settling trade disputes
Posted: February 26, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: Vietnam, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Sourcing from Vietnam: Banking, payments & export documentation
Posted: February 25, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: Vietnam, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Comparing wages across Asia to make sourcing decisions
Posted: February 25, 2015
Most companies that want to compare Asian countries tend to do so on the basis of easy-to-find numbers: minimum wage levels.
Polybag packaging for goods produced in China, is it enough?
Posted: February 23, 2015
The polybag packaging for goods produced in China is the most commonly used; however, is it actually enough to protect the goods?
Sourcing from Vietnam: Finding the right supplier
Posted: February 23, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: Vietnam, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
A high price from your China supplier may mean…
Posted: February 20, 2015
Many importers miss out on opportunities to work with quality suppliers because the buyer perceives their quote to be a high price.
Basic China compliance rules For SMEs
Posted: February 18, 2015
The full article is worth a read, but the "money" section is the following bullet point list of what every small company doing in business should be doing by way of a China compliance program.
Sourcing from Vietnam: Industries and manufacturing centers
Posted: February 18, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: Vietnam, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Tempered glass protection: The hot new product in China
Posted: February 16, 2015
Any Chinese manufacturers are starting to make this product, which is fast replacing regular plastic protection.
Responsible sourcing in China
Posted: February 13, 2015
International brands and retailers understand that responsibility has a price and there are high risks in buying without carefully checking who the supplier is and the working conditions it offers.
How to avoid logistical delays to your shipment during the Chinese New Year?
Posted: February 12, 2015
In this part of the series on Chinese New Year, we look at the logistics situation in China during this period & how it impacts the entire supply chain, especially in regard to "delivery times" & "logistics costs".
Challenges in managing quality inspectors in China
Posted: February 04, 2015
It seems at least half the companies that employ their own inspectors in China are unhappy about the behavior and/or their working methods of some of their QC staff.
Sourcing from the Philippines: Industries and manufacturing centers
Posted: February 04, 2015
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: the Philippines, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
How does the Chinese New Year impact product quality and production time?
Posted: February 02, 2015
"Production timings" are often longer during the Chinese New Year period, especially after the holiday due to the pile up of orders during the holidays.
What happens in Chinese factories during the Chinese New Year?
Posted: January 30, 2015
We are once again at that time of the year where we have to try & convince new importers & sometimes existing importers to speed up their decision making due to the approaching Chinese New year holiday.
How to draft a contract for China
Posted: January 28, 2015
It is a much deeper issue than language. Chinese courts, Chinese lawyers, and Chinese business people are not going to agree to legal provisions that have no meaning under Chinese law.
The advanced product quality planning process
Posted: January 26, 2015
The objective is to maximize the probability that the new product will fulfill the customer's requirements.
4 telltale signs of a bad supplier
Posted: January 23, 2015
No supplier relationship is perfect, and there will always be hiccups along the way. However, you may want to think twice if you repeatedly encounter one or more "red" flags.
Writing down measurement findings during an inspection
Posted: January 16, 2015
At the end of the day, the question is: how much time can be saved by not writing all the details? And would that time be more wisely spent on other tasks?
China WFOEs: Don't let this happen to you
Posted: January 14, 2015
Form your WFOE correctly or don't bother forming one at all. If your WFOE is not living up to its registration requirements/promises, you are at risk and you should act now to clean up.
Problem solving with the eight disciplines
Posted: January 09, 2015
This article provides a step-by-step approach to solving and preventing quality problems with 8D.
Importing your China product: Its own special mess
Posted: January 07, 2015
About once a month my law firm gets a call from someone whose product is being held up at the U.S. border for one problem or another.
ISO and SAI standards for inspection and audit companies
Posted: January 05, 2015
In essence, a standard is an agreed way of doing something. It could be about making a product, managing a process, delivering a service or supplying materials.
Tips for doing business in China
Posted: December 29, 2014
The biggest mistake is believing that China has no laws. American companies that believe China has no laws fail to take the legal steps necessary to protect themselves in China.
8 top tips for successful product development
Posted: December 26, 2014
Just because it is difficult, doesn't mean that new product development should be impossible. Here are a few tips that can make a difference when it comes to the successful development of a product.
Sourcing from the Philippines: Settling trade disputes
Posted: December 24, 2014
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: the Philippines, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Inspecting during production vs monitoring production
Posted: December 22, 2014
Some buyers realize that they need to keep a close eye on production is important, and that catching problems earlier is far cheaper than later.
Sourcing from the Philippines: Banking, payments & export documentation
Posted: December 22, 2014
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: the Philippines, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
Risks when reworking or replacing goods
Posted: December 19, 2014
Time is precious and when inspecting the goods only at the end via the pre-shipment inspection, some issues can't be solved so easily, specially if the goods should be reworked or replaced.
Sourcing from the Philippines: Finding the right supplier
Posted: December 18, 2014
This article is an excerpt from Sourcing From: the Philippines, a series of reports that provides buyers sourcing information from alternative manufacturing hubs in Asia.
A guide to business etiquette in China
Posted: December 17, 2014
With Chinese business representing an increasingly large, if not dominant, portion of the world's trade, it is necessary that business travellers learn the appropriate etiquette before conducting business in China.
China manufacturing: How to hang on to your molds
Posted: December 15, 2014
Make sure you require the manufacture to sign and seal a contract preferably in Chinese that makes clear to whom the molds belong to you.
Lack of understanding magnifies product problems
Posted: December 12, 2014
Understand your product and the manufacturing processes. Normal variations become perceived problems, when in actuality, no problem exists.
WEEE regulation for importers and manufacturers in China
Posted: December 10, 2014
The WEEE regulation is represented by the black and white crossed bin, which means that the product should be subject to a separate collection at the end of life.
What does quality mean to Chinese manufacturers?
Posted: December 08, 2014
Unfortunately, most Chinese companies are still at the micro level. Producing a quality product means complying with rules imposed by a customer.
Social compliance audits in factories: What you need to know
Posted: December 03, 2014
The audits are conducted by experienced professionals and are conducted in line with the SA8000 standard, which is an international benchmark.
How to terminate your China supplier: Very carefully
Posted: December 01, 2014
You should always plan ahead for pulling your production from your Chinese manufacturer.
Negotiate like a boss in China
Posted: November 28, 2014
Tailored advice is needed when working in a place with a completely different business culture.
Inspection limitation for glued products
Posted: November 26, 2014
The on-site test for glued products is usually related to the abuse test. This means that the QC inspector will put the product into the condition of an "angry" customer, using with force and sometimes violence on the product on a special level sample size based on the AQL table.
Best practices for choosing the right Chinese factory
Posted: November 24, 2014
Maybe you are looking for a new Chinese factory and you are not sure how to find a good one. You'd like to get inspiration from those companies that have the best supplier screening process.
Don't make these common mistakes when sourcing from China
Posted: November 21, 2014
Much of the risk can be managed and this article will outline some of the most common mistakes that people make when sourcing products, so that you can avoid making them.
Why this supplier won't accept a letter of credit?
Posted: November 19, 2014
If it is the first order, the supplier may not yet have a handle on the expected lead time. If their production delays cause the shipment to miss the target dates specified in the L/C, the buy side has the right to refuse payment and cancel the order.
Want good China product? Use a good China spec sheet
Posted: November 17, 2014
There are all sorts of things you should be doing to increase your odds of securing good products from China and that includes having a good specs sheet.
Negotiating in a slowing China
Posted: November 14, 2014
International negotiators who believe that a slowing Chinese economy gives foreigners more leverage are, however, over-optimistic at best.
Your supplier didn't sign up for this
Posted: November 12, 2014
China suppliers view the order as more of a mutual partnership, whereas the Western importer views the supplier as having more of a 1-sided responsibility.
Tips for sourcing toys in China – Q&A with an expert
Posted: November 10, 2014
I had the chance to ask Michael Blanc a few questions. Michael is the Regional Manager at Supply Chain Analysis Centre, Tradegood. He offers free sourcing services for buyers. He focuses on the toys and furniture industries.
China company indemnification from product defects. Yeah, whatever
Posted: November 07, 2014
Foreign judges generally, and China judges in particular, think US courts are out of control with the damages they impose in product liability cases.
6 questions to answer before buying anything from a Chinese supplier
Posted: November 05, 2014
Many of these questions need to be asked face to face. Because when you're trying to attain detailed information, the salesperson is not usually the best one to answer.
Supplier requirements for a corporate social audit based on SA 8000
Posted: November 03, 2014
The purpose of the CSA is to check the factory's social accountability management system based on the standard SA 8000 and local laws requirements.
Timing considerations in China manufacturing
Posted: October 29, 2014
Here are some things for you to ponder whenever you are mapping out the timing aspects of your offshore order.
Do Chinese factories really migrate to inland provinces?
Posted: October 27, 2014
In many industries, it makes more sense to be located within the existing cluster of competitors rather than far away from them.
Is it still worth it to do business in China? Conclusion
Posted: October 24, 2014
The answer depends on who you are and what you want from the market – and that's a problem.
7 reasons it's difficult to start small when buying from China
Posted: October 22, 2014
For one, if your order is small the factory will never give you its full attention, time and resources.
Preventing China counterfeiting: The basics
Posted: October 20, 2014
The real trick to reduce counterfeiting is to do the things earlier in the year that can help to prevent it.
Solve your production issues In 24 hours With QRQC
Posted: October 17, 2014
QRQC focuses on quality control to ensure that any problem is identified and isolated and that a solution is found and implemented quickly and effectively.
Supplier requirements for a factory audit based on ISO 9001
Posted: October 15, 2014
For the success of the audit, the supplier requirements for a factory audit should be clearly defined, as well as the audit scope.
3 types of factory evaluations for purchasing in China
Posted: October 13, 2014
More and more importers discover that they can appoint an auditing agency to evaluate factories before they issue an order. But not all these evaluation services are equally helpful.
Can my China supplier's liability insurance cover me if there is a recall in USA?
Posted: October 10, 2014
It's hard for a Chinese company to get overseas coverage in the first place, let alone for a product they manufacture but didn't design or brand.nt.
When it helps to have a China lawyer: China trademarks
Posted: October 08, 2014
Securing a US trademark registration is more complicated than most people realize and that is even truer of China trademark registrations. You really should use the right China lawyer for China trademarks.
Quality Assurance vs. Quality Control
Posted: October 03, 2014
Many suppliers in Asia want to work independently, so the importer has to strike the right balance in the equation: quality assurance vs. quality control.
China business cross-talk: Two views on doing business in today's China
Posted: October 01, 2014
Mario Cavolo and Andrew Hupert take two different views on China's emerging business environment.
What QC tools to use for problem resolution?
Posted: September 29, 2014
How does one integrate the seven basic quality tools in a problem resolution method that follows the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) logic?
Don't be suckered in by the lowest price offer
Posted: September 26, 2014
If you get unbelievably good pricing (relative to all other suppliers & material costs) it's normally a big red flag.
Changing your China factory? Be careful
Posted: September 24, 2014
Bad things nearly always happen when Chinese manufacturers discover that their American product buyers will soon be ceasing to buy product from it.
China factory production before Chinese national holiday 2014
Posted: September 22, 2014
In an instant, it becomes difficult to reach factory representatives, products are ready early (or not), and the ratio of passed vs. failed pre-shipment inspections drops quickly.
Beware of China factories' pre-Christmas rush
Posted: September 19, 2014
Products typically need to be in stores by November, which means they need to be produced in a period spanning from June to September.
Toys standards and the EN 71 regulation part 1-2-3 of 13
Posted: September 17, 2014
The EN 71 regulation for the safety of toys made or imported into the European Union specifies the safety standards for toys.
Is it still worth it to do business in China? Part 4 -- Different earnings models, different bureaucratic challenges
Posted: September 15, 2014
The Chinese bureaucracy is much more tolerant of overseas companies that spend than of overseas companies that earn in China. That means integrated MNCs must adjust their business models – and their approach to regulators – when they are selling.
Compliance in China -- Challenges of transparency, interpretation & enforcement
Posted: September 12, 2014
Compliance is one of the biggest challenges facing foreign companies operating in China.
Is it still worth it to do business in China? Part 3 -- Myths about the new China economy
Posted: September 10, 2014
China bears and the Chinapologists are spreading myths that lead to terrible business decisions. The truth lies somewhere between these two extreme – and dangerous viewpoints.
China Joint Ventures: A Warning
Posted: September 08, 2014
Many foreign investors still wish to enter the Chinese market through equity joint ventures, and the particular risks involved with this type of arrangement require careful planning.
Suppliers ignoring the seemingly obvious
Posted: September 05, 2014
The biggest hurdle is not necessarily the language barriers but differences in thinking and mindset.
Why does making a mold in China take a month?
Posted: September 03, 2014
Primarily, the more complex the part, the longer it takes to manufacture the mold.
Is it still worth it to do business in China? Part 2 – Myths and realities
Posted: September 01, 2014
China business reality check – It's not fair and isn't getting better. Deal with it.
Is it still worth it to do business in China? (Part 1)
Posted: August 29, 2014
Guanxi-building gifts, premium pricing for prestige brands, and closely guarded trade secrets used to be the hallmarks of a savvy international management team in China – now they are prosecutable offenses.
How to return defective merchandise to China
Posted: August 27, 2014
Audit suppliers before placing the order and inspect products before the goods ship out and before final payment is made. Have clear terms in your contracts about how defective merchandise is to be handled.
How to get legal in China. Now
Posted: August 26, 2014
The first thing to do is to figure out how the foreign SMEs are currently operating in China (illegally) then fnd out the best way to get them operating legally.
How factory audits, inspections and lab tests fit together
Posted: August 22, 2014
What is the difference between audits and inspections? Why are lab tests necessary if you send an inspector? This article will show how these three types of services fit together.
Factory audits on China trader suppliers: their reluctance
Posted: August 20, 2014
Factory audits on China trader suppliers can be difficult to arrange because traders are reluctant. Here are some arguments to convince them.
Tips for e-mailing Chinese suppliers
Posted: August 19, 2014
As an importer, you want to assure your emails are effective. Written communication can make or break the order.
In Chinese negotiation, don't confuse polite rhetoric with concerted strategy
Posted: August 15, 2014
American and European negotiators treat their Chinese counterparties' "general principles" discussion like the "terms and conditions" screen – we just check the box and look for the real content. Big mistake.
China due diligence: The most basic things to do
Posted: August 13, 2014
The odds of having problems with a Chinese company will be substantially lower if you are dealing with a "legitimate" Chinese company.
Why excessive stock is a big problem in a factory
Posted: August 11, 2014
A factory with large amounts of stock on the shop floor probably needs a long time to ship finished products.
What to do after a failed inspection
Posted: August 08, 2014
Buyers can reject lots before they are shipped but there are other alternatives to take into consideration.
How to select Chinese electronic manufacturing services
Posted: August 07, 2014
Here are a few hints on where Chinese EMS are competitive and some tips on how to select them depending on your specific situation.
Jewelry QC: Stone placement and setting
Posted: August 04, 2014
A ring with the best casting work and the most highly-prized gemstones can really take a tumble in terms of quality if those gemstones are not properly set.
Mr. Chen said…
Posted: August 01, 2014
The best vendors to work with are those that know their trade and don't require you to wait for a response from down the supply chain.
When buying in China becomes both cheaper and more expensive
Posted: July 31, 2014
Prosperous China is in the news again with a sustained high inflation rate, rising incomes and stronger regulations. Surprisingly, as a consequence, producer prices are decreasing while consumer prices are rising.
Reset your mental models when buying in China
Posted: July 30, 2014
The key to successful China sourcing is not a set of tools — it is primarily a change in mental models.
When does it make sense to process Chinese VAT rebates in-house?
Posted: July 25, 2014
Once a company running a business in China achieves normal tax payer status, it can get registered to process the VAT rebate in-house.
Negotiating in China means talking about the relationship
Posted: July 23, 2014
To us Westerners, "relationships" are emotional. In China, relationships are more like a due diligence investigation – and you definitely have to negotiate for access and openness.
China IP protection is possible
Posted: July 22, 2014
Far too many companies treat their IP in China as optional or secondary when it really should be one of the first issues they consider.
Tips for selecting Chinese suppliers of injection molded products
Posted: July 16, 2014
When it comes to purchasing injection or rubber injection-molded products, buyers generally want to qualify potential suppliers before sharing confidential information and requesting quotations.
Why suppliers in China quote incorrectly
Posted: July 14, 2014
The mindset is that the initial quote is not something that is going to make or break the project. It is viewed as sort of the starting point of discussion.
Knowledge-based sourcing
Posted: July 11, 2014
Published by Booz & Co, Knowledge-Based Sourcing describes how buyers will get the most our of their Chinese supplier base when they commit themselves to understanding most aspects of their suppliers.
Official CE logo and fake laboratory CE certificate
Posted: July 09, 2014
The rumor saying there are two CE logos, one for the EU and one for "China Export" is wrong. Only one CE logo exists.
Jewelry QC: Casting, soldering and glue assembly
Posted: July 07, 2014
Have you ever spent a significant amount of money on an item of jewelry only to be ripped off by poor quality materials or workmanship?
3 essential steps to protect yourself when buying from China
Posted: July 04, 2014
Put simply, if buyers take the following three actions, they will avoid 90 percent of the common China sourcing problems.
New China; new Vietnam
Posted: July 02, 2014
China is not bad these days, it is just different. Those who pretend it is not different are going to get killed financially.
Difficulties of relocating production in the US
Posted: July 01, 2014
Rebuilding manufacturing capabilities and a network of component suppliers will take many years.
How to source when there is a lack of trust and ethics
Posted: June 27, 2014
On one hand, there is so much competition in China that sales people will say just about anything to get your business. On the other hand, buyers need to take some of the blame.
Red flags buyers wave in China sourcing
Posted: June 25, 2014
In China sourcing and manufacturing endeavors, buyers also wave big red, ominous banners that scream alert! danger! time and money loss lurking around the corner!
Global trade evolution and China
Posted: June 24, 2014
Standard Chartered Bank's "Global trade unbundled" gives views on how global trade will evolve after the great financial crisis, and interesting data and views on China trade itself.
What information do I need to file my trademark application In China?
Posted: June 20, 2014
Generally there are six requirements that the client must provide to the firm, including the logo, and the English and Chinese text of the trademark.
Make it easy for your supplier in China to contact you
Posted: June 19, 2014
This goes without saying, but you need to make it easy for your supplier to receive email responses and confirmations from you, especially if you have open projects.
China price inflation: Where are cost reduction opportunities?
Posted: June 18, 2014
When sourcing in China, price increases are often presented as a law of nature. Fortunately, there are solutions to this challenge.
Exclusivity negotiation cheat sheet
Posted: June 13, 2014
Before negotiating for product exclusivity, you need to ask yourself a few questions.
Overview of China's electronic assembly industry
Posted: June 11, 2014
China is where most EMS companies of CEMs have large production capabilities.
Western strategies and tactics in Chinese negotiation
Posted: June 09, 2014
Western negotiators in China shouldn't try to decide on tactical issues before they develop workable strategies.
Reasons for non-compliance and recalls of products made in China
Posted: June 06, 2014
RAPEX and other sources publish long lists of products that are found unsafe and need to be recalled. Here are the most common reasons for non-compliance and recalls of products made in China.
Chairs: 6 essential quality assurance tests and checks
Posted: June 05, 2014
Quality Wars is bringing you the six essential chair QA tests and checks that you can perform anywhere, even on-site at the factory.
Keeping your wits about you on China supplier visits: Another story
Posted: June 02, 2014
The story goes to show that basic language skills and a little bit of China knowledge can go a long way. Also, just about anything can happen, so it pays to be on your toes.
China sourcing requires a different way of thinking
Posted: May 30, 2014
You have to change your thought process when dealing with China and in turn Chinese vendors.
China WFOE Formation: The 'new' rules on minimum capital
Posted: May 29, 2014
Registered capital is an initial investment intended to be immediately used in operating the China-based WFOE. It need not just sit in a bank and never be touched.
An update on the 'China Plus One' sourcing strategy for SMEs
Posted: May 28, 2014
Is China real estate overvalued? Sure. Would it be easy for China to slip into a serious economic crisis? Yes. But are China manufacturers losing competitiveness across the board? Certainly not.
Quality inspection report: Draft or final version?
Posted: May 23, 2014
After a quality inspection, an inspector prepares a draft report on-site and reviews it with the factory manager. This draft report is a first overview of the goods' quality and should not be confused with the final report.
3 pillars to getting quality goods from China
Posted: May 21, 2014
In order to secure on time delivery of quality goods from China suppliers, you will need to consider 3 areas: Select the right supplier; Take control of quality control; and Put in place the right inspection plan.
7 common mistakes revealed by factory org charts
Posted: May 20, 2014
One of the first things to look at during factory audits is the organization chart, which can often point to serious operational dysfunctions.
7 red flags in China manufacturing
Posted: May 16, 2014
Watch out for these red flags during sampling and mass production.
A China manufacturing term sheet
Posted: May 15, 2014
Here is a term sheet template that lists the bulk of the terms most companies should be concerning themselves with when outsourcing their manufacturing to China.
Is it normal for buying agents to be paid by Chinese factories?
Posted: May 13, 2014
The problem with agents getting a commission from suppliers is that it distorts the agent's incentives. When things go wrong, the agent will naturally tend to defend the current relationship at the expense of the buyer's interests.
Cultural caveats: On wining and dining
Posted: April 25, 2014
Have you ever been in the position of a guest who tries graciously to refuse a lavish gift or over-generous act of kindness from a host? How about the sometimes awkward task of declining an invitation?
4 common China law mistakes to avoid
Posted: April 24, 2014
Here are four common and egregious mistakes American domestic lawyers make when representing their clients in doing business with or in China.
Auditing assembly and packing operations in China
Posted: April 23, 2014
The subject of 'product assembly' is a complex one with many different methods and techniques required for different products.
The art of finding the right sampling plan [Infographic]
Posted: April 11, 2014
Inspections that involve one or two products can be conducted easily in one man-day. But when there are multiple products to check, creating a sampling plan can be complicated.
Footwear: 10 essential quality assurance tests and checks
Posted: April 10, 2014
From size measurements check to needle detection and rocking tests, here are the 10 essential QA tests and checks for footwear.
How to negotiate for slower price increases with your China factory
Posted: April 8, 2014
Here are a few tips on what to say when your China manufacturer asks for a price increase.
How to avoid fake test certificates from your China manufacturer
Posted: April 4, 2014
By getting a product certified themselves, buyers can reduce the chances of fake approvals.
Are Chinese negotiators long-term or short-term? Yes
Posted: April 3, 2014
Chinese negotiators can be chess-match slow, or lightning fast. The pace of your Chinese counterparty says a lot about your deal and relationship.
What a social auditor should check in China factories
Posted: April 2, 2014
Social auditors should focus on the worst practices that are common in China.
The unintended results of order control
Posted: March 21, 2014
With a constant barrage of emotional-filled emails, skype calls, an overload of repetitious detail to sift through and unprofessional threats, buyers can be overbearing in giving feedback to their Chinese supplier.
Auditing a plastic injection molding process in China
Posted: March 20, 2014
Injection mold machines have become sophisticated pieces of equipment with closed loop control systems monitoring every aspect of the process you can think of.
8 key inspection tests for leather bags
Posted: March 19, 2014
Here are 8 essential inspection tests that are carried out on leather bags made from real leather or imitations, such as PU.
10 warning signs your China deal is too complicated
Posted: March 14, 2014
Deals in China can go off the rails easily and early. The key to success in China is to walk away from bad deals and find good ones.
Cheated by China. Check your insurance
Posted: March 13, 2014
If you have been a victim of the "new bank account to pay us" scam, you should check your insurance policy and call an insurance coverage lawyer because all may not be lost.
Auditing a die casting process in China
Posted: March 12, 2014
The basic principle of die casting is the process of injecting molten metal under high pressure into a mold called a die. Learn how to evaluate a factory's die casting process.
Do sourcing agents have a future in China?
Posted: March 7, 2014
How will agents conduct their business in the future? Many still act as traders these days, and some of them pretend to own factories.
Cookware: 11 essential QA tests and checks
Posted: March 7, 2014
Hot out of the frying pan, Quality Wars is serving up eleven essential QA tests and checks for cookware.
How to avoid a sourcing disaster
Posted: March 6, 2014
Do your due diligence and audits on potential suppliers before you send money and make sure you check the quality before the goods ship out of China.
Key factors impacting the duration of an inspection
Posted: March 4, 2014
While the inspection scope, product type and order quantity may be similar, the hours spent on an inspection can fluctuate dramatically due to a range of factors.
Color confusion in China manufacturing
Posted: February 21, 2014
"But I gave the factory the Pantone number!" In the trials and tribulations of China manufacturing when a buyer finds out the color of their sample, or, even worse their production is "off", this is a common exclamation.
A new approach to preparing for a Chinese negotiation
Posted: February 20, 2014
In the West, negotiation is the prelude to business. In China, negotiation is the business.
What to do when a supplier can't provide product certificates?
Posted: February 18, 2014
How buyers can get a real and legitimate product certificate if the supplier has not already obtained it
Supplier quality management system: Selection criteria
Posted: February 13, 2014
Today most companies in the world are implementing quality management systems based on the globally recognized international standard ISO 9001.
Built-in unreliability: Our special award
Posted: February 10, 2014
If you wanted to make sure your system failed quickly, you would do exactly like the supplier where we took these photos.
Importing from China to sell online? Things you need to know
Posted: February 6, 2014
Online selling is big and only getting bigger. Every day people want to "import from China" and sell online – particularly on Ebay & Amazon.
The dangers of miscommunication: 4 examples to learn from
Posted: February 3, 2014
Here are four real-life examples of how things can go wrong when the supplier misunderstands instructions.
Do importers need trading companies to buy in China?
Posted: January 30, 2014
The trend over the past 20 years has been more direct trade between the manufacturer and importer.
How to sell in China
Posted: January 28, 2014
Many international companies -- whether they are multinational corporations or small- to medium-sized enterprises -- see China as a sales market that offers great potential.
China's courts compile first ever blacklist
Posted: January 24, 2014
Courts in China are now allowed to make public the names of companies and individuals who have defaulted on court-ordered payments. Avoid doing business with this group.
Giving feedback to China suppliers
Posted: January 22, 2014
In your importing and manufacturing sagas, there is a right way and wrong way in giving feedback to China suppliers.
10 common China negotiating mistakes
Posted: January 20, 2014
This list of common negotiating mistakes will help both newcomers and experienced China hands adjust their negotiating practices to be more successful and effective.
What are laboratory certifications worth in China?
Posted: January 17, 2014
As an importer, you take responsibility for the safety of the products you sell in your market. In many countries, you hold the same liability as if you had manufactured the products yourself.
Levels of China sourcing [Infographic]
Posted: January 16, 2014
This infographic summarizes four levels of sourcing, based on its scope, commitment of the organization to it and the return that can be expected.
Preparing for the Chinese New Year production stoppage
Posted: January 15, 2014
It is this time of year again when factories don't know how long their employees will stay, and when all buyers say "you must ship my order before the holiday."
10 safe assumptions in China sourcing
Posted: January 10, 2014
Here are 10 safe assumptions to make during your China manufacturing and sourcing projects. These assumptions help you stay on top of surprises, avoid pitfalls and keep a piece of your sanity.
Where to locate in China? Or why Weifang isn't Suzhou
Posted: January 8, 2014
I am constantly telling our clients that just because something happens one way in Shanghai does not mean it is going to happen the same way in Datong. It is more than cliché to say that China is a big and diverse country.
Using the high-speed train network to move inside China
Posted: January 7, 2014
I just took the newly opened high-speed train (gaotie / ??) line between Shenzhen and Xiamen. And I have been riding other lines regularly, around Guangzhou and around Shanghai/Ningbo. I thought I should write about my experiences.
Packaging: How to protect your shipment effectively?
Posted: January 3, 2014
Many importers forget to specify how their products should be packed. And, every year, tons of products arriving from China are thrown away because they were not adequately protected.
Purchase Agreements vs. Purchase Orders
Posted: January 2, 2014
More than once, when I review Purchase Agreements that buyers have already signed with his or her supplier, I have found that actually what he signed is a Purchase Order. What are the differences between a PO and a PA?
Tightened intellectual property related border measures by Chinese Customs
Posted: January 2, 2014
The border measures taken by the Chinese Customs has been ever increasing. Recently starting in late October, export shipments involving UL, HDMI, Bluetooth, SD marks were heavily inspected by customs officials.
The art of giving business cards in China
Posted: December 27, 2013
In order to better communicate with your Chinese supplier or Chinese vendor, you should know how to give and receive business cards in China.
My China factory has gone bankrupt: How to get my deposit back?
Posted: December 26, 2013
If the factory is really bankrupt, consult the lawyer who drafted the contract used for this purchase. If you did not do business with a contract, forget about this deal and move on.
What is the main thing learned in 10 years trading with the Chinese?
Posted: December 23, 2013
Focus a large amount of initial energy on finding the right factory
The four major steps of product sourcing
Posted: December 19, 2013
Procurement from China is not a job for a lazy person. It is time consuming and requires experience to do effectively. Here are 4 steps to get better results when procuring product from China:
Difference between audit and inspection
Posted: December 18, 2013
A buyer needs to evaluate the capacity of a supplier to fulfill his requirements.
Is it safe to send payments to a Hong Kong company for China productions?
Posted: December 17, 2013
Many small importers wonder if sending money to a Hong Kong company is safe.
Timing your China trademark
Posted: December 12, 2013
A client wanted to know if it should register a China trademark for the brand name and the logo even though there is a good chance that China will not allow that product into China for some time, if ever.
Negotiating online with Chinese counterparts (part 3 of 3)
Posted: December 11, 2013
Chinese negotiators value relationships more highly than western negotiators do, which presents a unique set of challenges when deals are being discussed long distance.
Quality procedure for your orders in China – a practical guide
Posted: December 10, 2013
Define in professional words and numbers what the supplier and the customer should agree upon, assure compliance and deal with breaches.
Doing business in China. Not that bad.
Posted: December 05, 2013
Back in April last year, I spoke at an Economist Magazine Business Without Borders event on China. I mostly spoke about intellectual property protections in China, but my introduction dealt with China's legal system as a whole.
Negotiating online with Chinese counterparts (part 2 of 3)
Posted: December 04, 2013
Chinese negotiation often requires Americans to engage in long distance, online and email communication. These methods can work just fine – but the rules of distance negotiation are different from face-to-face communicating.
Is it safe to produce children's apparel in China?
Posted: December 03, 2013
Yes, but not just any factory will do.
Safety compliance: Major risks for European importers
Posted: November 28, 2013
Most importers in Europe and in the US under-estimate the risks they are running, when it comes to compliance to safety standards.
Negotiating online with Chinese counterparts (part 1 of 3)
Posted: November 27, 2013
Whether you are based in New York, Shanghai or Frankfort, you are probably conducting much of your negotiation online – particularly email, but also via SMS, fax, video-chat, and conference calls.
Why am I paying 6% for VAT?
Posted: November 26, 2013
As of 1st August, we (in Australia) are being charged 6% VAT for all export clearance formalities and freights prepaid in China.
Inspections of moulds and tools in China
Posted: November 21, 2013
Many buyers want to have a Chinese manufacturer work on their own designs. And, very often, it means mould(s) need to be created for each new product design.
Suing a Chinese company for breach of contract
Posted: November 20, 2013
Got the following email the other day (which email I have modified so as to strip it of any identifiers):
Fake suppliers in China: Scammers within the law
Posted: November 19, 2013
The typical fake supplier in China registers a company, draws up documents under some peasant's name, creates a website with a professional look and hires a few English speaking sales people (unaware their employer is a scam).
What an unmotivated contact tells you about a Chinese supplier
Posted: November 14, 2013
Have you ever worked with a Chinese supplier contact who seems to be very unresponsive to your concerns? He might be causing you a lot of headaches but you had to continue working with him.
Tips for China sourcing trade shows
Posted: November 13, 2013
China sourcing trade shows such as Global sources, MEGA SHOW, Canton fair… connect millions of buyers with dozens of thousands of suppliers at the same place at the same time.
China fraud season starts early this year
Posted: November 12, 2013
Last December, in a post entitled, Payment Fraud In China. This Season's Edition, we wrote of how it has "become somewhat of a December tradition to write about China payment scams in December because history shows this is the biggest month for those.
3 protections registering your trademark in China will grant you
Posted: November 7, 2013
We all know we must register our trademark in China to get any legal protection. But what specific protection can be expected? According to the revised Trademark Law, there are three protections:
The five types of product testing laboratories in China
Posted: November 6, 2013
A few months ago, I wrote a list of testing labs that has proven helpful to many importers.
How to conduct China due diligence. Just ask.
Posted: November 5, 2013
Buying a Chinese company? Looking to do a China Joint Venture? Looking to use a Chinese company to distribute your product in China? Licensing your technology? Just want some good widgets from a reliable China supplier?
Supplier evaluation: What should I look for during my visit?
Posted: October 31, 2013
It is probably clear to most now that we strongly recommend on-site supplier evaluation prior to any purchase from a Chinese factory.
Sourcing in China more securely: The purchase order role
Posted: October 30, 2013
We all know that sourcing in China starts by selecting the right supplier. However, even the best supplier is able to manufacture the wrong product quality with an incomplete purchase order.
10 China management risks you can eliminate by training
Posted: October 29, 2013
Doing business in China is hard enough when you get everything right. Western managers often end up repeating the mistakes that others have made before. The bad news is that any one of these can undermine your efforts in China.
Best practices for management of China inspectors
Posted: October 23, 2013
A few weeks ago, we held a seminar about the best way to hire, train, and manage inspectors.
China reality check. Please.
Posted: October 22, 2013
Got an email today in response to our post, When NOT To Fire Your "China Guy." The email was from my friend and China hand, Kurt Braybrook, owner of Fatwater Consultancy.
How to stay on top of your production in China
Posted: October 17, 2013
Many importers negotiate a shipment date (ETD) with their Chinese suppliers before orders are issued, and then fail to follow up on the production schedule.
Tips from a Chinese lawyer about contract and PO
Posted: October 16, 2013
Sometimes buyers sign a PO instead of a written contract. It is very risky. I strongly recommend that a bilingual contract must be signed before any PO is placed and in the contract make the responsibilities, rights and remedy for breach of contract very clear.
The one time China product purchase. No.
Posted: October 15, 2013
I am tired of feeling bad for people/companies who call or email me to say that they just bought this or that from China and they did not receive it or what they received is not even close to what they ordered and paid for.
Naughty tactics some suppliers use to maximize profits
Posted: October 10, 2013
Stephen Ashcroft, from the procurement and supply chain consultancy Brian Farrington, has written an interesting post listing naughty tactics some Western suppliers are using to maximize their profits:
Can I get compensation for a missed delivery?
Posted: October 09, 2013
We were told the delivery of the shipment on our order was 30 days and it made 60 days. Are we allowed any compensation? How can we claim it? Of course the supplier is unwilling saying he is not the shipping company. our contract was clear buy and deliver from the supplier side.
The problem with auditing factories in China
Posted: October 08, 2013
Here you go, straight from a China Social Accountability Expert with 12 years experience (in China):
Beware of MANAGER inflation in your China buying office
Posted: October 03, 2013
Sometimes I visit a buying office with a dozen people, and most of them have "manager" somewhere in their title.
Sampling for inspection: Packed, unpacked goods
Posted: October 02, 2013
We already learned about the production level limits during a pre-shipment inspection to ensure its reliability: "Pre-shipment inspection: production level". There is another important condition to take into consideration: the way the sampling for inspection is done.