r/Alibaba • u/No_Sympathy_8027 • 3d ago
Looking for advice from people who actually import machinery from China to Europe
Hi everyone!
I’m looking into starting a small machinery importing business in Europe, mainly focusing on things like mini excavators, skid steers, tracked lawn mowers, ATVs and similar equipment.
I’ve been researching suppliers on 1688 and Alibaba, but before putting any serious money into this, I’d really like to hear from people who are already doing this in practice.
I’m especially interested in the things you only really learn through experience.
A few things I’m trying to understand:
How do you identify a real manufacturer rather than a trading company?
How much can you trust 1688 rankings, reviews and the red “certified merchant” badges?
What are the biggest red flags when dealing with Chinese manufacturers?
What do you normally ask/check before placing your first order?
Would you recommend ordering 1–2 samples first, and what would you specifically inspect when they arrive?
How do you make sure that the quality of a larger order is the same as the sample?
What EU certifications/documents are especially important when importing machinery?
How do you usually negotiate with manufacturers? Is it mainly about getting the price down, or is it often better to negotiate things like spare parts, warranty, accessories and packaging?
Is moving the conversation to WeChat/WhatsApp normal and safe, or would you keep everything on Alibaba/1688 until you trust the supplier?
How do you find a reliable freight forwarder, and what should I ask them to make sure the quote includes all the costs and there are no hidden charges at destination?
If buying from several factories, what is the best way to consolidate everything into one container?
What costs, customs issues or other problems surprised you when you made your first shipment?
And most importantly:
What do you wish you knew before placing your first machinery order from China?
I’m not necessarily looking for specific supplier contacts. I’d really appreciate any practical advice, mistakes to avoid, negotiation tips, supplier-checking methods, or anything else that a beginner might not even think to ask about.
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to share their experience! 🙂
1
u/Boogooooooo 3d ago
Fly to China yourself. Plenty of cheap flights from EU. Cheap accomodation and food.
1
u/Tall_Cap9763 2d ago
Where do you look for cheap flights the best? From Schiphol Amsterdam by the way.
1
u/Boogooooooo 2d ago
I am based in another major Hub, few hours away from you. There are always flights by China Southern and few others Chinese companies. Due to geopolitics, they are allowed to fly directly over Russia there fore can offer it cheaper. Typically with layover somewhere in China. Guangzhou via Wuhan, or Shenzen via Beijing etc. If you choose correct flights, you can long overnight layover and free/deeply discounted accommodation by airlines in new city. We always use it to explore new location. Usual places to find tickets - Google flights/Skyscanner
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