How end-to-end sourcing on Alibaba.com works
Your business can find or create exactly what you’re looking for here on one of the world’s largest wholesale marketplaces. Then pay for it, ensure its quality, and ship it to your final destination.
Step 1:
Find products and sellersWith over 150,000 manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors selling on the platform, you can find or create anything you’re looking for. You can work with sellers to create customized products , or find finished products that already exist that are Ready to Ship from the facility within 15 days of when you place the order.
How to find sellers
- Use the search bar.Enter product or seller keywords, then narrow your choices from there.
- Go to pavilions.Check out themed pavilions ranging from top-ranking products to a specific country’s exports.
- Send a Request for Quotation (RFQ).Specify what you’re looking for and sellers will bid for your business.
How to assess sellers
- Ask the right questions.Assess sellers by looking at the information in their profiles. Dig deeper by sending a message.
- Look at their badges.Badges on a seller’s profile help you know what steps they took to prove they are a trusted partner.
- Gold supplier:Alibaba.com members that have been verified as businesses with commercial or industrial capabilities.
- Verified Seller:A Gold Supplier whose company profile, management, production capabilities, product, and process have been assessed, certified, and/or inspected by third-party institutions.
- Trade Assurance Supplier:Gold suppliers who accept payment through Alibaba.com, enabling Alibaba.com payment and order protection.
Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip
When you’re searching for products or sellers, you can filter for Trade Assurance. This way you’ll know your order is protected.
Step 2:
Connect with sellersUnlike other platforms, you can speak one-on-one with sellers on Alibaba.com to customize your order, negotiate prices or learn more about their business. Once you’ve created a short list of sellers, it’s time to reach out.
How to connect with sellers
- Write a detailed message.Start an inquiry by clicking “Contact Seller” on the product detail page.
- Keep track of conversations.Find all your messages within “My Alibaba” in the Message Center.
- Use the mobile app.Simplify communication with real-time translation and video chat features to simplify communication.
- Attend online trade shows.Save time and money by attending category-specific digital events to network and assess industry trends.
Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip
Keep 100% of your communication within the Message Center - otherwise your Trade Assurance protection may not be upheld.
Step 3:
Place and protect your orderWhen possible, place orders using Alibaba.com Trade Assurance for order protection. Look for the Trade Assurance iconon product listing pages, or ask your seller if it’s offered. Adhere to all Trade Assurance rules , including messaging within the Message Center instead of third-party apps.
Alibaba.com Trade Assurance protections
- Product quality.Ensure your product is made according to your specifications.
- On-time shipping.Have your product shipped by the date you
- Payment security.Trust that your payment is secure and your seller will send you your order.
- Dispute resolution.If you’re not satisfied with your order, file a dispute and Alibaba.com will mediate.
Additional ways you can protect your order
- Detailed purchase orders.Create a purchase order (PO) detailing all aspects of the order and shipping.
- Request a sample.Ensure the product meets your specifications before placing the full order.
- Production monitoring and inspection services.A local team will visit the seller’s location to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Intellectual Property (IP) protection.The security and privacy of our customers and our merchants is a top priority for Alibaba.com, and we pride ourselves as the global leader when it comes to IP protection.
Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip
Always ask if your seller offers Trade Assurance to ensure your order is protected and payment will be secure.
Paying suppliers on Alibaba.com is easy and secure. Once you and the seller agree on payment terms, you’ll typically pay an initial balance. The remainder is due when the items are shipped. Buyers can make secure Alibaba.com Trade Assurance payments through the options shown on the right.
Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip
You must pay for your order on Alibaba.com, not through third parties (exception: wire transfer) for your order to qualify for Trade Assurance protection.
Alibaba.com Logistics has partnered with major players in the industry to provide our customers with reliable and transparent multi-modal shipping solutions.
Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip
Trade Assurance protects your order for 30 days after you receive it.
