The China Sourcing Blog
Practical breakdowns on sourcing directly from Chinese factories: suppliers, quality control, logistics and project outfitting.
Guangzhou Sourcing Markets: What to Find and Where
A guide to Guangzhou markets for sourcing: the Canton Fair, Zhongda fabric market, Yide Road decor district, and Panyu solid-wood furniture — plus what to buy in Foshan instead.
CE, RoHS, TISI, ESMA Certificates: What You Need to Import from China
CE, RoHS, TISI and ESMA explained simply: what each certificate covers, which products need it, and how to avoid customs delays when importing from China.
The Foshan Lecong Furniture Market: How It Actually Works
How the Lecong furniture market in Foshan is organized: the Louvre, Sunlink, Red Star Macalline complexes, floor logic, a visit plan, and market vs. factory pricing.
Mirrors, Glass and Shower Enclosures from China: a Sourcing Guide
How to source mirrors, architectural glass and shower enclosures from China: tempering, laminated glass, silvering, HS codes, crating and quality control.
AQL Explained Simply: How to Read a China Inspection Report
What AQL means, how sample size is calculated, the difference between critical and major defects, and how to read a China inspection report in 5 minutes.
What "Made in PRC" and "Made in China" mean — and whether it matters
Made in PRC means made in the People's Republic of China — i.e. China. Why factories write PRC instead of Made in China and what it means for quality and customs.
Gross, Net and Volumetric Weight: How Cargo From China Is Actually Charged
Gross, net and volumetric weight explained: the difference, how the volumetric weight formula changes shipping cost, and what to check in a China packing list.
How to verify a factory in China remotely: video audits and inspections
How to verify a Chinese factory without visiting: live video inspection, third-party audits, registries and digital tools. Checklist and case study.
HS codes explained: how customs classification works for China imports
HS codes explained in plain terms: how the code is structured, why it sets your duty rate and VAT, and how to avoid misclassification importing from China.
OEM or ODM: what is the difference when sourcing from China
OEM vs ODM sourcing from China: who owns the design and the mold, typical MOQ, and when to bring your own drawing vs use a factory catalog design.
Types of Curtains and Curtain Tracks: Fabrics, Weight, and Hanging Mechanisms
Curtain fabric types: sheer, blackout, dimout, jacquard. Track types: rod, channel, motorized. Fabric weight, pleats, and how to choose for a project.
Sourcing Carpets and Rugs from China: Types, Density, HS Codes
How to source carpets and textile floor coverings from China: hand-knotted, tufted, density, fire safety, HS codes. Save up to 60% vs local suppliers.