The full process of importing goods from China to India — finding suppliers, samples, quotes, payment, inspection, shipping and customs clearance — in plain language.
Importing from China can cut product costs significantly, but mistakes are expensive. This is the process in the order it happens, with the checks that matter at each step.
Write down the specification: materials, dimensions, colours, capacity or power rating, packaging, labelling and quantity. Add reference photos or a sample. A vague brief is the most common reason the goods that arrive differ from what the buyer expected.
Shortlist several manufacturers rather than one. Check the company's business registration, how long it has operated, what it actually produces (factory or trading company), and whether it has exported to India or similar markets. Ask for photos or video of the production line and references where possible.
Order a sample before any bulk order. It confirms quality, finish and packaging, and shows how responsive the supplier is. Samples cost money and take time, but they cost far less than a failed container.
Ask every supplier to quote on the same Incoterm (usually FOB or CIF), the same specification and the same quantity. Check the MOQ, the production lead time and who pays for packaging, inspection and port charges. See our guide to sea vs air freight.
Suppliers commonly ask for a deposit with the balance paid before shipment or against documents. Put the specification, price, quantity, delivery date and payment schedule in a written order or contract, and avoid paying the full amount upfront to a supplier you have not verified.
Have the goods checked against your specification before final payment and before they leave the factory. See our guide to pre-shipment inspection.
Choose sea, air or courier based on volume, urgency and cost. The supplier prepares the commercial invoice, packing list and transport document (bill of lading or air waybill).
To import for business you need an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from the DGFT. A licensed customs house agent (CHA) normally files the Bill of Entry electronically, the assessed duty and taxes are paid, and customs releases the goods for delivery. Some products also need approvals or certifications before import, so check this before you order. See import duty and GST.
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