1688.com is an online marketplace which is popular in China, foreign buyers can seek competitive prices and get a wide range of products from here. However, there are several challenges that international customers may face when using this platform. In this article, we will explore 7 key challenges and provide valuable insights to help foreign buyers overcome them.
1 . Language Barriers:
One of the primary challenges for foreign buyers is the language barrier on 1688 platform. The website is primarily in Mandarin, making it difficult for non-Chinese speakers to navigate and understand.
In order to solve this challenge, you can use translation tools or work with a reliable local agent who can assist in communicating with sellers and understanding product information.
2 .Payment Problem:
1689.com is created for China’s local buyers and suppliers, resulting in limited payment options for international buyers. The platform accepts local payment methods such as Alipay and local bank accounts. Foreign buyers may face challenges in converting their currency to RMB for transactions.
To overcome this obstacle, it is a viable solution to cooperate with a local agent who can facilitate payments on your behalf.
3 .Shipping Method Problem:
The limitation of local shipping is another challenge faced by foreign buyers on 1688.com. Suppliers typically offer shipping within China only, it is difficulty for international deliveries. However, the local agent can solve this problem for you, and the cost is not high.
4 .Product Quality Verification:
It is also important for the product quality verification. As sellers have the freedom to list products without stringent quality checks, it becomes crucial for buyers to conduct their own due diligence. To ensure a satisfactory purchase experience, buyers should thoroughly examine seller profiles, look for quality certifications, check the number of employees, and verify previous order quantities. It is also advisable to buy sample before committing to larger quantities.
5 .Suppliers Usually Do not Have experience to Export:
Usually, suppliers don’t have experience to export, they can’t speak English and don’t know how to handle oversea order, as the market is catering to China’s domestic.
This poses a significant challenge for foreign buyers who need to export the purchased products.
To overcome this obstacle, it is recommended to work with an export agent who can facilitate the necessary documentation and ensure a smooth export process.
6 .Attitude of Larger Manufacturers:
When dealing with larger manufacturers on 1688.com, foreign buyers may experience a difference in attitude compared to smaller companies. Larger manufacturers are accustomed to catering to big companies with substantial order volumes, which can impact their responsiveness and customer service for smaller buyers. It is crucial to manage expectations and communicate clearly to ensure a smooth buying experience.
In a word, there are many advantages for foreign buyers to import on 1688.com, as it is easy to buy directly from manufacturer at low price. Foreign buyers can resell the products on Amazon, Ebay, Aliexpress, etc.
