Importing Goods from China via 1688, Taobao, and Tmall – A Comprehensive A–Z Guide (2026)

In today's business landscape, importing goods from China remains a top choice due to competitive pricing, diverse product designs, and high profit margins.
However, without a clear understanding of the process, you may encounter various challenges:
❌ Defective or low-quality goods
❌ Scams and fraudulent suppliers
❌ Shipping and logistics hurdles
❌ Complexities in import-export regulations
👉 This article will guide you through the step-by-step process of importing goods from A to Z.
🛒 1. Popular Chinese Sourcing Platforms
✔️ 1688
Lowest wholesale prices
Ideal for bulk procurement
✔️ Taobao
Extensive product variety
Suitable for beginners
✔️ Tmall
Authentic brand-name products
Higher price points
📊 2. Standard Chinese Import Process
✔️ Step 1: Product Sourcing
👉 Search via:
Chinese keywords
Image search
👉 Tips:
Select shops with high ratings
Prioritize shops with high order volumes
✔️ Step 2: Supplier Evaluation
👉 Review:
Ratings
Customer feedback
Actual product photos
✔️ Step 3: Order Placement
👉 Two primary methods:
Direct ordering
Using an intermediary service
✔️ Step 4: Payment
👉 Common obstacles:
Requires a Chinese bank account
Requires a verified Alipay account
✔️ Step 5: Shipping to Vietnam
👉 This is the most critical phase:
Consolidation
Transportation
Customs clearance
⚠️ 3. Risks of Direct Sourcing from China
❌ Language barriers
👉 Leads to incorrect product selection
❌ Products not matching descriptions
👉 Poor quality control
❌ Inability to file complaints
👉 Risk of financial loss
❌ Logistics difficulties
👉 Goods may be seized or delayed
💡 4. Expert Sourcing Tips (Pro)
✔️ Sample testing
👉 Do not place large orders immediately
✔️ Choose reputable suppliers
👉 Prioritize long-standing shops
✔️ Pre-shipment inspection
👉 Mitigates quality risks
✔️ Comprehensive cost calculation
👉 Must include logistics fees and taxes
🚛 5. Solutions from Laso Logistics
👉 Laso Logistics provides end-to-end support:
Sourcing assistance
Ordering on 1688 / Taobao / Tmall
Quality control and inspection
China–Vietnam freight forwarding
Customs declaration services
👉 Specialized route: Lang Son
👉 Lead time: 24–72 hours
📊 6. Comparison: Direct Sourcing vs. Managed Services
| Criteria | Direct Sourcing | Laso Logistics |
| --------- | ------------- | -------------- |
| Difficulty | High | Very Easy |
| Risk | High | Low |
| Lead Time | Unstable | 24–72 hours |
| Costs | Hard to control | Optimized |
🎯 7. Who Should Import from China?
New entrepreneurs
Online shops
Enterprises
📞 Contact Laso Logistics
📞 Hotline: 0986 711 888
🌐 Website: logistics-laso.com
📍 Phu Loc Urban Area, Dong Kinh Ward, Lang Son Province
👉 Message us now for a free sourcing consultation!
