Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about China sourcing and our services

🚀 Getting Started

What is a sourcing agent and why do I need one?

A sourcing agent acts as your local representative in China, helping you find reliable suppliers, negotiate prices, ensure quality, and manage logistics. You need one if you want to reduce risks, save time, and get better deals than you could on your own. Learn more about sourcing agents.

How do I start working with Paxport?

Simply contact us with your product requirements. We'll schedule a consultation to understand your needs, then provide a customized sourcing plan and quote. The process typically takes 24-48 hours.

Do you work with small businesses or only large companies?

We work with businesses of all sizes! Whether you need 100 units or 100,000 units, we can help. We tailor our services to match your specific needs and budget.

💰 Pricing & Fees

How much do your services cost?

Our fees typically range from 5-10% of the order value, depending on the complexity and volume. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a custom quote based on your specific needs.

Are there any upfront fees?

We typically charge a small retainer fee to begin the sourcing process, which is credited against your first order. This ensures serious inquiries and covers initial research costs.

How do you save me money compared to sourcing directly?

We save you money through: better negotiation (15-30% lower prices), avoiding scams and bad suppliers, optimizing shipping costs, reducing quality issues and returns, and saving you time (which is money).

📦 Products & Sourcing

What types of products can you source?

We source a wide range of products including textiles, machinery, household goods, electronics, hardware, packaging materials, and more. If it can be manufactured in China, we can help you source it.

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

MOQs vary by product and supplier, typically ranging from 100 to 1000 units. We work to negotiate lower MOQs where possible, especially for trial orders. For very small quantities, we may recommend consolidating with other orders.

Can you help with custom product development?

Yes! We can help you develop custom products from concept to production. This includes finding manufacturers capable of custom work, creating prototypes, and managing the production process.

?Quality Control

How do you ensure product quality?

We implement a 3-stage quality control process: pre-production inspection, during-production monitoring, and pre-shipment inspection. We also verify supplier credentials and factory capabilities before production begins. View our QC checklist.

What happens if the products don't meet quality standards?

If products fail inspection, we work with the supplier to correct the issues or find alternative solutions. We don't release final payment until quality standards are met. In rare cases of irreconcilable issues, we help you find a new supplier.

Can I get samples before placing a large order?

Absolutely! We always recommend ordering samples before mass production. We can coordinate sample production from multiple suppliers so you can compare quality and make an informed decision.

🚢 Shipping & Logistics

How long does shipping take?

Shipping times vary by method: Express (3-7 days), Air freight (7-14 days), Sea freight (25-40 days). We help you choose the best option based on your timeline and budget. Learn about shipping options.

Do you handle customs and import documentation?

Yes, we handle all export documentation from China. For import documentation in your country, we work with freight forwarders who can assist with customs clearance. We ensure all paperwork is correct to avoid delays.

What shipping terms do you offer?

We can arrange shipping under various Incoterms including FOB, CIF, DDP, and EXW. We recommend DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) for beginners as it includes all costs and responsibilities until delivery to your door.

🔒 Safety & Payment

Is it safe to pay suppliers in China?

When working with us, yes. We use secure payment methods and never recommend paying 100% upfront. Standard terms are 30% deposit, 70% before shipping (after quality inspection). We also verify all supplier bank details.

How do I avoid scams when sourcing from China?

Key precautions: verify business licenses, conduct factory audits, never pay to personal accounts, use secure payment methods, start with small trial orders, and work with reputable sourcing agents. Read about common mistakes to avoid.

Do you offer any guarantees?

While we can't guarantee specific outcomes (as we don't control suppliers), we do guarantee our service quality. This includes thorough supplier verification, professional quality control, transparent communication, and dedicated support throughout the process.

⏱️ Timeline & Process

How long does the entire sourcing process take?

Typical timeline: Sourcing (1-2 weeks), Sampling (2-3 weeks), Production (3-6 weeks), Shipping (1-6 weeks). Total: 2-4 months from start to delivery. Rush orders can be accommodated for an additional fee.

Can you handle rush orders?

Yes, we can expedite orders when needed. Rush orders may incur additional fees for expedited production and shipping. Let us know your timeline upfront so we can plan accordingly.

How do I track my order?

We provide regular updates throughout the process. During production, you'll receive weekly progress reports. Once shipped, we provide tracking information for your shipment.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help! Contact us for a free consultation and let's discuss your specific sourcing needs.

Contact Us