China is the world's largest exporter, shipping everything from electronics and machinery to textiles and furniture to every corner of the globe. For new exporters, the process can seem daunting — but having guided dozens of first-time importers through their initial shipments at Bofeng Logistics, we can tell you it is a well-trodden path with known steps and known pitfalls.
This guide walks you through exactly how to start exporting from China: the business models, required licenses and documentation, shipping options, logistics process, and common mistakes to avoid.
Three Ways to Export from China
Before diving into processes, you need to decide how you will export. There are three common business models:
1. Direct Export (Self-managed)
Your company directly sources from Chinese suppliers and handles export logistics.
| Pros | Cons |
| Full control over supply chain | Requires Chinese customs registration |
| Better margins (no middleman) | Need logistics expertise |
| Direct supplier relationships | Higher minimum order quantities |
Best for: Established businesses with experienced logistics teams importing regular, large-volume shipments.
2. Using a China Sourcing Agent
A sourcing agent based in China manages supplier selection, quality control, and export logistics on your behalf.
| Pros | Cons |
| Local expertise and language support | Additional cost (typically 3–10% commission) |
| Quality inspection before shipment | Less direct supplier relationship |
| Consolidation services for small orders | Varies widely in quality and reliability |
Best for: Small to medium businesses without a China office who want hands-on support.
3. Using an International Freight Forwarder
Your freight forwarder handles the logistics while you deal with suppliers directly. Many offer door-to-door services including customs clearance.
| Pros | Cons |
| Handles all logistics complexity | Less control over carrier selection |
| Customs brokerage included | Must still manage supplier relationships |
| Flexible for any shipment size | Service levels vary between providers |
Best for: Most importers — this is the most common model for businesses of all sizes.
Step-by-Step: How to Export from China
Step 1: Find and Verify Suppliers
The foundation of successful exporting is finding reliable suppliers. Key platforms and methods:
- Alibaba: Largest B2B platform; use Trade Assurance for protection
- Made-in-China: Strong for industrial products
- Canton Fair: China's largest trade fair, held biannually in Guangzhou
- Industry trade shows: Specialized by product category
Supplier verification checklist with verification depth:
| Check Item | How to Verify | Red Flags | Verification Method |
| Business license (营业执照) | Request scanned copy; verify company name matches your contact | Name mismatch; expired license | Cross-check with China's National Enterprise Credit Information System (国家企业信用信息公示系统) |
| Export qualification (进出口经营权) | Check that their license includes "import/export scope" | License says "domestic trade only" | Verify customs registration number (10-digit) |
| Sample quality | Order samples before any bulk production | Samples arrive late; quality inconsistent with description | Use third-party inspection (SGS/Bureau Veritas) for pre-shipment sample check |
| Factory audit | Physical visit or third-party audit | Factory address differs from license; rented facility with no equipment | Use video call factory tour if physical visit not possible |
| Trade assurance / payment protection | Use Alibaba Trade Assurance or L/C for first orders | Supplier insists on 100% T/T in advance | Start with 30% deposit + 70% against B/L copy |
| Export history | Check if they have exported similar products before | No export record; short company history (<1 year) | Use customs data platforms (Panjiva, ImportGenius) to verify |
Sample order process with specific timeline:
| Step | Timeline | Action | Deliverable |
| 1 | Day 1 | Send inquiry with product spec + quantity + target price | Supplier quotation |
| 2 | Day 3-5 | Compare 3-5 supplier quotes; shortlist 2 | Price comparison sheet |
| 3 | Day 5-7 | Order samples from 2 shortlisted suppliers | Samples delivered by courier (3-7 days) |
| 4 | Day 10-14 | Evaluate samples; select supplier | Sample evaluation report |
| 5 | Day 14-21 | Negotiate and sign contract | Sales contract with Incoterm + payment terms |
| 6 | Day 21-28 | Confirm final specifications and packaging | PI (Proforma Invoice) and packaging spec sheet |
| 7 | Day 28-30 | Place deposit (30% T/T) | Payment receipt |
Step 2: Negotiate and Sign a Contract
A clear contract protects both parties. Essential elements:
- Product specifications, quality standards, and tolerance
- Quantity, unit price, and total value
- Incoterm (FOB is standard for China exports)
- Payment terms (T/T with 30% deposit + 70% balance is standard)
- Delivery timeline and shipping milestones
- Inspection and acceptance procedures
- Dispute resolution mechanism
Step 3: Prepare Goods for Export
Once the order is confirmed, the supplier manufactures the goods. As the buyer/importer, you should:
- Confirm product specifications with samples before mass production
- Arrange quality inspection during production (mid-production) and before shipment (pre-shipment)
- Review packaging — ensure export-grade packaging is used
- Confirm shipping marks — labels should include buyer name, destination port, and carton numbers
- Arrange cargo insurance — protect against loss or damage during transit
Step 4: Arrange Shipping and Documentation
This is where your freight forwarder becomes essential. They will:
- Book cargo space with a carrier based on your timeline and budget
- Arrange container pickup from the carrier's depot
- Coordinate container loading at the supplier's factory
- File the export declaration with China Customs (through their broker)
- Issue the Bill of Lading as the contract of carriage
Documents you will receive:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (original or telex release)
- Certificate of Origin (if requested)
- Inspection Certificate (if inspection was arranged)
Step 5: Ocean or Air Transit
Your cargo is now on its way. Use this time to:
- Prepare import clearance documents at destination
- Arrange destination trucking
- Review duty and tax obligations
- Track cargo progress via carrier's online system
Typical transit times (from China departure):
- US West Coast: 13–18 days (ocean)
- US East Coast: 25–32 days (ocean)
- Europe: 28–35 days (ocean)
- Southeast Asia: 5–10 days (ocean)
Step 6: Import Customs Clearance
When cargo arrives at the destination port or airport, it must clear customs in the destination country.
Your freight forwarder or a destination customs broker will:
- File the import declaration with destination customs
- Pay applicable duties and taxes
- Arrange any required inspections
- Obtain customs release
Timeframe: 1–5 days for standard clearance; longer if inspections are required.
Step 7: Final Delivery
After customs release, cargo is trucked to your warehouse or final destination. For FCL shipments, this involves picking up the full container and returning it empty after unloading.
Essential Documents for Exporting from China
| Document | Purpose | Issued By |
| Commercial Invoice | Describes goods and their value | Supplier |
| Packing List | Details quantities and weights | Supplier |
| Bill of Lading | Contract of carriage and title document | Carrier |
| Certificate of Origin | Proof of where goods were manufactured | Chamber of Commerce or CIQ |
| Export Customs Declaration | Official filing with China Customs | Customs broker |
| Insurance Certificate | Proof of cargo insurance coverage | Insurance company |
Export Models by Product Type
Different products suit different export models. Here is how the three models compare across product categories:
| Product Type | Direct Export | Sourcing Agent | Freight Forwarder | Key Consideration |
| Consumer electronics | ⭐⭐⭐ Volume buyers | ⭐⭐⭐ Small orders | ⭐⭐⭐ Any volume | QC is critical — defect rates vary by factory |
| Furniture / home goods | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Consolidation savings with agent for mixed containers |
| Industrial machinery | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Technical specs require direct supplier communication |
| Food / agricultural | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Compliance and certification complexity favors forwarder |
| Apparel / textiles | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | QC is essential; agent helps with factory audits |
| Chemicals | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Dangerous goods handling requires specialized forwarders |
| Auto parts | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Brand restrictions and certification may limit options |
Small vs Large Shipment Strategies
| Shipment Size | Recommended Approach | Cost-Optimal Logistics |
| Sample / < 1 CBM | Agent or forwarder | Express courier (DHL/FedEx) or LCL |
| 1-10 CBM (LCL) | Forwarder | LCL consolidation |
| 10-15 CBM | Compare FCL vs LCL | Calculate both — tipping point varies by route |
| 1-5 FCL containers/month | Direct export with forwarder | Standard FCL with spot or short-term contract rates |
| 5+ FCL containers/month | Direct export with annual contract | Negotiate annual carrier contract via freight forwarder |
Common First-Time Exporter Mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid |
| Skipping quality inspection | Receiving defective goods | Always arrange pre-shipment inspection |
| Incorrect HS code | Customs delays and penalties | Have broker verify HS code before shipping |
| Underinsuring cargo | Financial loss if cargo is damaged | Insure for 110% of CIF value |
| Choosing the cheapest freight | Delays, poor service, hidden fees | Compare service quality, not just price |
| Not checking supplier credentials | Fraud or poor quality | Order samples; conduct factory audit |
| Inadequate packaging | Goods arrive damaged | Specify export-grade packaging in contract |
FAQ
Q: Do I need a license to export from China?
A: Your Chinese supplier needs an export license (进出口经营权). As the foreign buyer, you do not need a Chinese license.
Q: What is the minimum quantity for exporting from China?
A: There is no legal minimum. For LCL shipping, 1 CBM is the typical minimum. For FCL, a full container (20GP or 40GP) is required.
Q: How do I pay Chinese suppliers?
A: Common payment methods include T/T (wire transfer), L/C (letter of credit), and Alibaba Trade Assurance. T/T with a 30% deposit is most common.
Q: How long does it take to export from China?
A: From order confirmation to delivery at a US port: approximately 6–10 weeks (2–4 weeks production + 2–3 weeks shipping + 1–2 weeks customs clearance).
Q: Can I visit the factory before ordering?
A: Yes — factory visits are strongly recommended for first orders. Guangzhou and Shenzhen are major manufacturing hubs accessible from Hong Kong International Airport.
Ready to start exporting from China? Bofeng Logistics provides end-to-end freight forwarding, customs clearance, and logistics consulting. Contact us for a free consultation.
Bofeng Logistics
Phone/WhatsApp: 13075678958
Email: info@zhbfwl.com
Contact us for a personalized shipping solution.
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