The platform 1688.com is best suited for wholesale orders, and we’ll prove it in this article! Many avoid the marketplace because of its Chinese interface and payment difficulties. But DiFFreight will help you get the most out of wholesale purchases from China on 1688.
1688 is the largest B2B (business-to-business) platform, part of the Alibaba Group. It has several key distinctions:
One major barrier is the language. Since the marketplace is for the domestic market, few company representatives speak English well — which complicates negotiations.
However, these specifics don’t scare buyers away. On the contrary, the number of foreigners buying on 1688 keeps growing due to low prices and good quality. This is possible because you buy directly from the factory or first supplier. In terms of direct sourcing, 1688 even surpasses Alibaba.
The simplest way is to check their profile. Open the product listing that interests you. On the right side of the image, you’ll see prices, size charts/specifications, and shipping options. Then scroll down below the product photo.
The store name is highlighted in green. The status is shown in orange. The Bull icon means the supplier has been active for over 5 years and verified by the platform after submitting documents. After the status, you’ll see the main type of goods sold — in this example, men’s clothing.
Next, you’ll see several key metrics:
The next step is to open the menu under the arrow near the store name.
First, analyze the left block. Under the store name (first line), you’ll find (from top to bottom):
Now look at the right block. The number of stars is the seller’s overall rating, including returns, purchase experience, delivery timeliness, dispute resolution, and quality of consultations during procurement.
Bottom block (right to left):
The bottom line of the block shows certification.
Summary — How to Find Reliable Wholesale Suppliers from China on 1688:
We explained how to register on 1688 in another article. Try your hand at verifying wholesalers and manufacturers on the platform!
We recommend this marketplace for several reasons:
However, finding a Chinese supplier on 1688 can turn into a nightmare for beginners — everything is in Chinese, and translators are highly inaccurate. That’s why you can entrust this process to us or simply order product purchasing from China according to your needs.
There are also a few challenges when buying wholesale from 1688:
| Problem | Description |
|---|---|
| Not suitable for dropshipping | No direct delivery to other countries, only within China. |
| Quality issues may occur | It’s best to order control samples and inspection of the first “real” batch. |
| Difficult communication | You can use a translator, but it often causes misunderstandings and inaccuracies. |
| Insufficient packaging for international shipping | Additional packaging is often needed to ensure goods survive sea or air transport. |
| Complex logistics | Delivery from 1688 to Ukraine is only possible through third-party logistics companies. |
| Customs issues due to trademarks | If you order copies or replicas of famous brands, customs may seize them. |
Wholesale purchasing on 1688 helps increase profit margins due to low procurement costs and strengthens business competitiveness through exclusive assortments and product customization.
DiFFreight ensures you get maximum benefits! That’s why we actively work with 1688 — over 1,000 clients order goods through this marketplace. In addition to sourcing and purchasing services, we also handle shipping from China to Ukraine. Place your first import order from 1688 and experience the advantages of the Chinese market for your business!
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