What specs do I give potential Chinese suppliers?

Before importing from China, it is crucial that you do your homework and prepare detailed specifications for your supplier.

Quality products start with your specifications.

The more specifications you provide a potential supplier, the greater the chance you'll receive an accurate:

Do not assume the supplier knows anything about your product, even if he is the number one supplier in the world!

Remember to include the specifications for packaging too, if applicable.

If there's one thing you take out from this, make it 'specify the bleeding obvious'.

The Chinese are master copiers, and they will make whatever you tell them, however, you have to tell them what you want, in detail.

Sometimes it helps to explain to the supplier why it is that you need the product to be produced this way. If you neglect to do this, the Chinese supplier may just assume that you are a "Crazy Westerner", and also conclude that they have a better way of doing it.

Including photos and artwork (if applicable) will significantly increase the chances of getting what you want, and are very powerful tools to utilise when importing.

Non-Disclosure Agreement

$297 USD Non-Disclosure Agreement

Intellectual Property protection is important, and it's recommended you use a Non-Disclosure Agreement that's in English and Chinese.

Sample

The next level of specification is to give the supplier a sample of your product, but bear in mind that this is only required once you've selected your supplier.

Think in great detail, and communicate all expectations clearly with your chosen Chinese supplier.

For a starting point and guide for your specifications, download our Specifications Form.

Next: What does it cost to import from China?