How to Import From China: Step by Step Ultimate Guide

Importing from China can significantly reduce your product costs and help scale your business faster. Whether you’re a wholesaler, retailer, or Amazon seller, understanding the full importing process is essential.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through every step—from sourcing products to shipping and customs clearance—so you can import from China with confidence.

Table of Contents

Step-1: Product Supply

Sourcing the right supplier is the foundation of a successful import business. You can find suppliers through online platforms or offline markets.

1.1 Online Sourcing supply

Online sourcing is the fastest and most convenient way to find suppliers.

Popular platforms include:

Alibaba
Made-in-China
Global Sources

How to search effectively:

Use specific keywords (e.g., “plush bear with flag design” instead of just “toy”)
Compare multiple suppliers
Request quotations (RFQ) and samples

Pro Tip: Always verify supplier credibility (certifications, reviews, transaction history).

If you want to save time and reduce risk, working with a sourcing company like TonySourcing can be a better choice.

Access to 5,000+ verified toy manufacturers
One-stop service: sourcing, sampling, production, QC, shipping
No need to deal with multiple suppliers

Send your product requirements and get fast quotations with full support.

1.2 offline sourcing supply

Yiwu market is a great place for you to visit and check the sample then order directly.
for example, Toys section in Yiwu market, there is over 2000 supplier supply plastic toys, electronic toys, inflatable toys, novelty toys…

to get a better view of this market, you can click the below video about it. it is really great for a new business starter.

another place is the Shantou toys showroom,
here you can find more premium quality and package toys. For each kind of toy, you can find over 10 different packages, so you can choose which package is suitable for your selling market.
for more detail, you can go to the below video about the Shantou toys showroom.

Article: 9+ business tips when SOURCING product from China suppliers

Step-2 China Custom Export

Once your order is ready, your supplier will handle the export process.

Key steps:

Transport goods to the export port
Prepare export documents
Submit customs declaration

This process is usually included in your FOB price.

What is Inland Charge?

Inland charge refers to the cost of transporting goods from the factory to the port and handling export procedures.

Typical costs:

20FT container: around $700
40FT / 40HQ container: around $1100

💡 Suppliers usually include this cost in the unit price when quoting FOB.

Step-3: Transportation From China

After customs clearance, your goods are shipped to your destination country.

Shipping Options:

Sea freight (most common for bulk orders)
Air freight (faster but more expensive)
Express (for samples or small orders)

Choosing the Right Port

Select a port close to your final destination to reduce inland costs.

For USA buyers:

West Coast → Los Angeles / Long Beach
East Coast → New York / Houston

A professional freight forwarder can help you choose the best route and save costs.

Step-4 Import & Customs Clearance

When your goods arrive, you need a customs broker to handle the import process.

Required Documents:

Bill of Lading
Packing List
Commercial Invoice
Certificates (if required, e.g., CE, EN71 for toys)

Import Costs Include:

Customs duties
Import taxes
Handling fees
Inland delivery

After clearance, the goods will be delivered to your warehouse.

Pro Tip: Work with a Local Shipping Agent

Before placing an order:

Ask a local freight forwarder for a cost estimate
Calculate total landed cost (not just product price)

This helps you avoid unexpected expenses and protect your profit margin.

Final Thoughts

Importing from China is not complicated if you understand the process. The key is to:

Choose reliable suppliers
Understand pricing terms (FOB, CIF, etc.)
Work with experienced logistics partners

👉 Need Help Importing Toys from China?

At TonySourcing, we help global buyers:

Source high-quality toys
Customize products & packaging
Manage production & quality control
Handle shipping & delivery

Contact us today to get a free quotation and product sourcing support.

How to Import From China: Step by Step Ultimate Guide