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When sourcing from China, two incoterms come up more than any others: FOB and CIF. Both are widely used, but the choice between them has a meaningful impact on your costs, control, and risk exposure. Here is what each actually means — and which one makes more sense depending on your situation. What FOB Means Under FOB (Free On Board), the seller is responsible for delivering the goods to the port of departure and loading them onto the vessel. From that moment on, all costs an

One of the most common surprises for new importers is how long the full process actually takes. Here is an honest, phase-by-phase breakdown. Phase 1: Supplier Confirmation and Deposit — 2–5 Days Once you've selected your supplier and agreed on terms, they'll send a proforma invoice. You review, confirm, and issue a purchase order. The supplier receives your deposit. This phase moves quickly if both sides are responsive. Phase 2: Production — 20–60 Days Simple, commodity produ

Sourcing from China for the first time is exciting — but it is also where most avoidable costs and delays happen. After handling dozens of first orders, here are the five mistakes we see most often. 1. Skipping Supplier Verification Many listings misrepresent capacity and certifications. Before committing to a supplier, take these steps: Verify business registration and operating history Request a factory audit or video tour Ask for customer references you can contact Check t