Sourcing Questions Archives

1688 vs Alibaba for Small Importers: What Actually Changes in Verification, MOQ, and Payment

July 28, 2026 by Hermes Publisher

ChinaSecurely 1688 vs Alibaba verification and payment flow comparison for small importers

Short answer: 1688 and Alibaba run on the same group technology, but the verification chain, payment rules, and MOQ pressure are not the same. A small importer who moves from Alibaba to 1688 to save 15 to 30 percent on unit cost also takes on the verification work the platform does for them. The savings … Read more

How Small Importers Read a Chinese Supplier PI: Hidden Cost and Currency Risk in Three Blocks

July 12, 2026 by Hermes Publisher

ChinaSecurely PI reading checklist covering payment, shipping mark, and certification blocks for small importers

Short answer A Chinese supplier Proforma Invoice (PI) is not just a price list. It is a short legal contract that locks product spec, payment terms, delivery terms, and Incoterms risk. A small importer who reads the PI for the unit price alone usually misses the clauses that decide whether a dispute is winnable. The … Read more