How Long Does it Take to Import from China?
In this video, I will share with you about the timing involved in importing from China.
By this I mean, ‘what stages do I go through, and how long does each stage take?”
Find below our tried and proven system to get the right product delivered on time and at the agreed price.
Stage 1 Research & Tender
The action we will take is:
- Research, locate and qualify suitable suppliers for the product
- Prepare Request For Quote
- Contact suppliers
- Obtain quotes and evaluate offers
- Shortlist appropriate suppliers
- Prepare reports
The client will get the following 3 reports:
- Supplier Summary report
- Quote Comparison report
- Landed Investment Analysis report
And all email correspondence between ChinaDirect and suppliers
The time for stage 1 usually take about 6 weeks
Stage 2a. Sampling
The action we will take is:
- Send your samples to suppliers
- Arrange samples
- Send supplier samples to you
The client will get:
- Samples from selected suppliers
The time for stage 2a will take a minimum of 3 weeks, and it really depends on what feedback you have, and what improvement you require, and how many rounds of sampling you may want to go.
Stage 2b. Purchase Order Negotiation
The action we will take is:
- Negotiate the price, terms and conditions with the final supplier for purchase order
- Arrange branding (if any)
- Draft purchase order
The client will get:
- Best possible price, terms, and conditions
- Brand on product
- Purchase order drafted for your approval
The time for stage 2B will take about 2 weeks.
Stage 3. Production & Delivery Management
The action we will take is:
- Place purchase order
- Arrange supplier payment
- Monitor purchase order progress
- Supplier Self Assessment
- Organize delivery
- Organize customs clearance
The client will get:
- Order placed for you
- Supplier Self Assessment report
- Products arrive at your door
The time for Production will take 4 – 8 wks. And shipping usually take about 3 weeks
Customs clearance will take 1 week, and local delivery will take 3 days.
The timings above are realistic. Sometimes projects are quicker, sometimes longer, particularly if the product requires custom manufacturing.
Generally, you should allow 4 months from starting your project to receiving your goods.
Guide to Importing from China videos:
Importing Building Materials: Quality Assurance & Logistics with Lindy Chen
Inspect Before Shipment, or Not?
How do I Choose an Importing Agent?
Should I Get a Sample from the Chinese Supplier?
How do I negotiate with my Chinese supplier?