5 Things Everyone Should Know About Sourcing Agents in China

Importing from China calls for a responsible and reliable buying or sourcing agent who can serve as your eyes and ears in the ground as you focus on other important things that you need to pay attention to in your business. Here are things you should know when seeking out the services of sourcing agents in China:

• Trust is of paramount importance whenever working with any type of broker or agent. Ideally, you want to hire someone capable and reliable—one that you can trust your business’ life and health with even when you are not looking. It isn’t difficult to find out whether or not a sourcing agent is trustworthy and capable. In this day and age of digital information, al you need to do is go online to find out about a company and see what people are saying about them.
• Verbal commitments are not enough. If you think that an official contract is nothing but a formality, think again. A written contract can protect your and your agent’s interest in many ways. This contract must be complete with all the details a sourcing contract should have, including details that may be unique to your agreement.
• Choose a buying office. Working with a firm specializing in Chinese manufacturing and sourcing is a great way to take advantage of an agent’s experience and expertise. This gives you access to an entire range of resources you might need along the way, as you negotiate with various suppliers.
• Hire a sourcing expert, not a mere secretary. All too many companies make the mistake of hiring just anyone to handle their affairs in China. While this may work for some companies, larger operations may want to invest in expert and professional help.

Competent sourcing agents are not only product experts, they also have a large network of well-established connections and relationships with different professionals, suppliers, and players in the field. This can be extremely advantageous to your business.

• Hire someone you can effectively communicate with. More often the not, communication becomes a problem when dealing with Chinese manufacturers and suppliers. In addition to the huge language barrier, which is a common issue when dealing with Chinese suppliers, there can also be an industry gap, which will likely affect how well they know your product parameters, specifications, and other details that are critical to the success of your import and overseas sourcing transactions.

About the Author

China 2 West is a western owned and managed Manufacturing & Vendor Management, Quality Control and Product Development Company based in mainland China. Established in 2005 as a manufacturing consultancy, we now have businesses in several countries and provide design, production, inspection, and testing and logistics service to companies that need a reliable supply of goods from China. Our dedicated and passionate team work tirelessly across our business sectors as we continue to grow and to seek out new investment opportunities.

China 2 West is a western owned and managed Manufacturing & Vendor Management, Quality Control and Product Development Company based in mainland China. Established in 2005 as a manufacturing consultancy,