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How to Source Products From China: A DTC Playbook

Portless · portless.com Free Beginner

A DTC-specific playbook that frames the real decision every founder faces: stay on Alibaba, build a direct factory relationship, or hire an agent, and when each makes sense.

  • Choice of sourcing channel depends on your volume and specialisation
  • Specify materials, dimensions and quality standards before outreach
  • China remains the default even for India-first brands on many categories
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It answers 2 questions

  1. How do I actually import a product from China as a small D2C brand with no existing supply chain?
  2. What's actually different between working direct with a factory, buying off Alibaba, and hiring a sourcing agent?

Read with it

  1. A concrete step-by-step for one of the most-imported D2C categories, sequencing IEC, GST, supplier vetting and landed cost... eximpe.com Article Import Electronics from China to India: Step-by-Step Method Eximpe
  2. A DTC-focused sourcing overview that's useful precisely because it treats freight and customs as part of sourcing strategy, not... logisticsff.com Article Product Sourcing in China: Guide for DTC & Dropshipping LogisticsFF
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