The Buzz Around 1688
You might have noticed more people talking about 1688.com.
It’s not just another shopping site. It’s where many of the products you see on Amazon, AliExpress, or even in local stores are originally sourced. In fact, some of the hottest trending products on social media can be traced back to suppliers on 1688.
What Is 1688?
1688 is a wholesale platform owned by Alibaba Group, mainly serving the domestic Chinese market.
Here, you’ll find:
- Thousands of factories and suppliers
- Factory-direct prices (often much lower than international platforms)
- An enormous range of products—from fashion and electronics to packaging and raw materials
However, it’s entirely in Chinese, and designed for local buyers who pay in RMB.
1688 vs Alibaba.com – What’s the Difference?
While both belong to Alibaba Group, they serve different markets:
Alibaba.com –For international buyers, with a multi-language interface, multiple payment options, and higher prices to cover export services.
1688.com – For domestic Chinese buyers, with Chinese-only interface, RMB transactions, and true factory-level pricing.
Who Should Use 1688?
1688 can be a goldmine for:
Small businesses & startups testing new products with low budgets. For example, if you want to test the market for a product, you can order as few as 5–10 pieces instead of committing to a large factory order.
E-commerce sellers looking for competitive pricing. For example, Amazon or Shopify sellers searching for trending products can often secure factory-level prices on 1688 to boost their profit margins.
Designers & entrepreneurs wanting custom products without high MOQ (minimum order quantity). Whether it’s a custom sticker label or a printed scarf, some suppliers can produce as few as one piece to bring your idea to life.
Wholesale buyers who can handle their own quality control & logistics. Those with existing inspection processes and shipping arrangements can take full advantage of 1688’s low-cost sourcing.
Who Should Think Twice?
1688 may not be the best choice if you:
- Can’t deal with language barriers (the site is in Chinese)
- Need smooth international payment and shipping
- Don’t have time to vet suppliers or follow up on production
- Are a consumer who just wants to buy a single item
The Difficulties for Foreign Buyers on 1688 (and How I Can Help)
While the low prices are attractive, foreign buyers often face some challenges:
1, The platform is entirely in Chinese, which means you’ll need to translate everything into your language.
2, Communication gaps – Misunderstandings are common without local support.
3, Payment limitations, RMB only, no PayPal or international credit cards. I can help you arrange domestic RMB payments securely if needed.
4, No built-in international shipping. Most suppliers only ship within China. I can consolidate your purchases and arrange international delivery to your door.
Tips for Sourcing on 1688
- Use image search to find products visually
- Click on specific SKUs, prices can vary.
- Factor in local shipping fees within China (usually small, but still part of your cost).
- Don’t rely solely on listed prices, especially for customized products. The listed price is often a “teaser” to draw attention. You’ll need to contact the supplier, confirm the details, and get a custom order link before paying.
- Before purchasing, check with a shipping agent to confirm the product can be shipped internationally and to get an estimated shipping cost. This helps avoid buying items you can’t ship or paying more than you budgeted.
- Commonly restricted or limited items include:
- Chemicals
- Most types of powders
- Liquids and creams
- Powerful magnets
- Certain batteries
- Verify the supplier’s credibility, supplier ratings, years in business, and customer feedback matter. “High quality” in their description might be different from your standards.
- Clarify final terms before payment, agree on quality standards, return/refund conditions, and lead time before paying to avoid disputes later.
Why Work With a Sourcing Agent from the Start
Many international buyers try to handle 1688 orders themselves, only to face delays, hidden costs, or products that don’t meet expectations.
By working with a local sourcing agent from the beginning, you:
- Avoid costly mistakes and misunderstandings.
- Get access to reliable suppliers that don’t appear in a simple search.
- Save time by having someone negotiate, follow up, and inspect for you.
- Receive one consolidated shipment, reducing freight costs.
In short, you focus on your business, and your agent handles everything in China.
Working With a Local Sourcing Agent Makes Things Simpler
I’m based in Guangzhou, China, and I help international buyers source from 1688 safely and efficiently. Here’s what I can do for you:
- Search for products & suppliers in Chinese
- Communicate with suppliers on your behalf
- Arrange domestic payments in RMB
- Consolidate goods from multiple suppliers
- Check quality before shipping
- Arrange international delivery at competitive rates
If you’re curious about buying from 1688 without the headaches, let’s talk!
