FAQ • Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about getting started, sourcing, quality control, logistics, fees, and our company structure.
Getting Started
How do I get started?+
Book a free consultation through our contact page or reach out directly via WhatsApp, WeChat, email, or video call. Tell us what you need and we will explain how we can help before you make any commitment.
Do I need to know exactly what I want before contacting you?+
Not at all. Many clients come to us with a rough idea. The consultation is designed to help you clarify requirements before any work begins.
What types of products do you source?+
Physical consumer and commercial goods across a wide range of categories. We do not source food, pharmaceuticals, controlled substances, or products requiring specialist regulatory licensing in your destination country.
Which countries do you serve?+
We work with importers and businesses worldwide. Our team is based in China and our operational reach covers all major Chinese and Hong Kong manufacturing regions.
Sourcing
How do you find suppliers?+
We use a combination of our existing supplier network, Chinese manufacturing databases, trade fair contacts, and direct market research. All initial supplier contact is conducted in Mandarin.
How do you verify suppliers are legitimate?+
We verify business registration, assess factory vs trading company status, review certifications, check production capacity, and evaluate response professionalism. Every shortlisted supplier is documented.
Can you source products I have already found on Alibaba?+
Yes. Even for listed products, professional sourcing adds value: Mandarin negotiation, multi-supplier comparison, quality and capability vetting, and risk identification that a listing does not reveal.
How long does sourcing take?+
Timelines depend on product category and complexity and are confirmed in your written scope document before work begins.
Quality Control
What is a pre-shipment inspection?+
Our inspector visits the factory and randomly samples finished goods against your specifications before loading. A written pass, conditional pass, or fail report is delivered within 24 hours.
Do I need an inspection?+
We strongly recommend one for any order above USD $3,000 equivalent. The cost of an inspection is a fraction of what a defective shipment costs to resolve after arrival.
What happens if my goods fail inspection?+
We provide a detailed report and advise your options: reject shipment, require rework before re-inspection, or accept with negotiated reduction. We support you through the conversation with the supplier.
Logistics
Do you handle customs clearance at the destination?+
We coordinate with a licensed customs broker in the destination country. Their fees are passed through at cost. We currently have established broker relationships for Australian import clearance.
How do I know what my total landed cost will be?+
We provide a cost breakdown estimate before booking that covers our coordination fee, estimated freight, and indicative customs duties. Actual freight is confirmed upon forwarder booking.
Fees & Payment
How are fees structured?+
Fixed project fees for sourcing, day rates for inspections, and flat coordination fees for logistics. Every fee is confirmed in your written scope document before you pay anything.
Are there hidden fees?+
No. Our fee model is explained in full on our How Our Fees Work page. We do not accept supplier commissions and never mark up third-party costs.
What currency do you invoice in?+
For most international clients we invoice in USD. Australian clients are invoiced in AUD. Other currencies can be discussed. Contact us to confirm.
Trust & Structure
Are you based in China?+
Yes. Our primary operating entity, Guangdong Tasman Trading Co., Ltd., is registered in China and based in Guangdong province. Our team works in China every day.
What is the Australian company?+
China Sourcing Solutions Pty Ltd is our Australian-registered partner entity. It provides the international contractual and accountability framework for clients who require a Western-registered company counterpart on their agreements.