What is 1688?
1688 is a Chinese e-commerce platform owned by Alibaba Group. It was launched in 2010 and is mainly intended for wholesale buyers, but it’s also possible for individuals to make purchases on the platform. 1688 allows users to buy and sell a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, furniture, and raw materials. The platform is popular among Chinese manufacturers and suppliers who use it to sell their products to domestic and international buyers. 1688 is a major competitor to other Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Taobao and JD.com, and it’s widely used by businesses and individuals in China and around the world.
how to buy from 1688 as a foreigner？
1688 is a Chinese e-commerce platform that is mainly intended for wholesale buyers, but it’s also possible for individuals to make purchases on the platform.
Here are the steps to buy from 1688 as a foreigner:
- Create a 1688 account: Visit the 1688 website and click on the “Register” button. You will need to provide your mobile number to receive a verification code and complete the registration process.
2. Use a translation tool: 1688 is a Chinese website, so it’s recommended to use a browser extension like Google Translate to translate the website into your preferred language.
3. Search for the products you want to buy: Use the search bar to find the products you want to purchase. Make sure to use specific keywords to narrow down your search.
4. Check the seller’s reputation: Look for sellers with a good reputation and positive reviews from previous buyers. You can find this information on the product page under the seller’s name.
5. Contact the seller: Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to contact the seller to confirm the product details, price, and shipping information. You can use the 1688 messaging system or a chat app like WeChat to communicate with the seller.
6. Place your order: Once you have confirmed the details with the seller, you can place your order by adding the products to your cart and proceeding to checkout.
7. Pay for your order: 1688 accepts various payment methods, including Alipay, WeChat Pay, and bank transfer. Follow the instructions to complete your payment.
8. Arrange for shipping: 1688 does not offer international shipping, so you will need to use a third-party shipping service like a freight forwarder to have your purchases shipped to your address.
9. Receive your order: Once your order is shipped, you should receive a tracking number to track your package’s progress. Depending on your location and the shipping method you choose, it may take several days to several weeks to receive your order.
Note that buying from 1688 can be a complex process, especially if you don’t speak Chinese or have little experience with international shipping. It’s recommended to use a reputable 1688 agent or a freight forwarder to help you navigate the process and ensure a smooth buying experience.
