The China Sourcing Blog
Practical breakdowns on sourcing directly from Chinese factories: suppliers, quality control, logistics and project outfitting.
Toilet Types: Wall-Hung, In-Wall Cisterns, and Rimless Design
Close-coupled, back-to-wall, wall-hung toilets and in-wall cisterns, rimless flush: how to pick the right type when sourcing bathroom fixtures from China.
Faucet Types: Cartridges, Ceramic Discs, and Body Materials
Ceramic vs ball cartridges, brass, zinc alloy and stainless steel, PVD finishes: how to choose a kitchen or bathroom faucet when sourcing from China.
China's building-material markets: a city-by-city map — tile, sanitary ware, lighting, stone
Where to buy building materials in China: Foshan (tile, sanitary ware, furniture), Guzhen (lighting), Shuitou and Yunfu (stone), Yongkang (hardware). Cluster map, price tiers, and how a market differs from a factory.
Custom Walk-In Closets and Sliding Wardrobes from China: Sourcing Guide 2026
How to source a walk-in closet or sliding wardrobe from China: sliding door systems, E1-grade board, mirrored doors, HS codes. Save up to 80% vs local.
Drywall vs Gypsum Fiber Board: Differences and Where to Use Each
Drywall (GKL) and gypsum fiber board (GVL) differ in composition, strength, moisture and fire resistance. Where to use each — walls, ceilings, dry floor screed.
Container Fleet Starts Returning to the Red Sea: What It Means for Freight Rates from China
On July 6, 2026, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd shifted a service back to the Suez Canal route for the first time since 2024. We break down what it means for China freight rates.
Types of Paints and Varnishes for Finishing: How to Choose When Sourcing From China
Acrylic, alkyd, polyurethane and epoxy paints and varnishes: composition, durability, VOC levels and where to use them when sourcing furniture from China.
Types of Interior Doors: Solid Wood, Veneer, Enamel, Eco-Veneer
Solid wood, natural veneer, eco-veneer, enamel and PVC film: how interior doors differ by finish and core construction, and where to use each type.
Wall Panels: Slat, 3D, MDF, PVC — Types and How to Choose
Slat, 3D, MDF, PVC and acoustic wall panels: thickness, moisture-resistance class, clip-on mounting, and what to lock into the factory spec.
Natural and Engineered Stone: Types and Where to Use Them
Marble, granite, onyx, engineered quartz, porcelain slabs and acrylic solid surface: how they differ, where to use each, and how to choose.
Sourcing Doors and Windows from China: Interior, Entry, Aluminum
How to source doors and windows from China direct from factories: interior, steel entry and aluminum systems, glazing, HS codes and logistics. Save 30%+.
FCL or LCL: full container or consolidated cargo from China
FCL vs LCL shipping from China: 20/40/40HQ container volumes, the breakeven point by cubic meters, consolidation lead times, and the real risks of LCL cargo.