🇨🇳 Should you use a sourcing agent in China?
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🗓️ March 2025
🔍 Introduction: the dilemma between personal sourcing, agent... or turnkey solution
When you want to import products from China, you have several options :
- Do the sourcing yourself : total control, but time-consuming and risky.
- Go through a sourcing agent : saves time, but is often opaque.
- Use a turnkey solution like Born2Succeed : sourcing already done, verified suppliers, maximum transparency.
So, what is the best strategy to secure your imports while maintaining control of your business?
In this article, we compare the benefits, risks and real alternatives , with concrete insights into our approach at Born2Succeed .
1. 🧑💼 What is a sourcing agent?
A sourcing agent , also called a "buying agent", is an intermediary based in China (or Asia) who takes care of:
- Search for suppliers
- Negotiate prices,
- Organize orders,
- Ensure quality control,
- Manage logistics (transport, customs, etc.).
It sounds perfect on paper, but the reality is more nuanced ...
2. ✅ Advantages of sourcing agents
Going through an agent can have its advantages:
✔️ Save time : you no longer spend hours searching on Alibaba.
✔️ Quality control : the agent can check the goods before sending.
✔️ Local negotiation : he speaks Chinese, knows the factories, and can obtain better conditions.
✔️ Useful for small volumes if you are just starting out and don't have a network yet.
3. ⚠️ The major drawbacks
But behind these advantages lie significant risks , especially for beginners:
❌ Loss of control : you never speak with the end supplier.
❌ Chinese call : poorly communicated specifications, errors in products.
❌ Total dependence : if the agent cuts off contact, everything collapses.
❌ Price opacity : you never know if the final price is fair, or if the agent is taking a hidden margin.
4. 💸 Fuzzy pricing vs. clear transparency
There are two main pricing models among agents:
- 📘 Transparent model : you pay a clear commission (e.g. 10%) on the actual cost of the product.
- ⚠️ Opaque model : the price is inflated, and the agent secretly earns money from the difference.
Example: the product costs €5, you pay €9 for it, but you never see the actual invoice from the supplier.
🎯 This is where Born2Succeed changes the game:
At Born2Succeed , we are not agents , but a structured and 100% transparent sourcing service :
✅ You receive real supplier contacts.
✅ The prices you see are the real prices , with no hidden extra costs.
✅ You remain the owner of the supplier relationship.
5. ⚠️ Fake agents & trading companies in disguise
Another common trap: agents disguised as trading companies , who present themselves as "sourcing experts" but actually act as resellers. The result:
❌ Generic products without customization,
❌ No transparency on prices,
❌ Little or no quality monitoring.
Born2Succeed, on the other hand, gives you the keys directly : names, contacts, specialties, and even advice on how to negotiate well.
6. 🤝 The right balance: autonomy + support
The right approach in our opinion?
🔧 Keep control of your business , while relying on reliable tools and partners.
This is exactly the goal of our supplier packs :
💼 You maintain the direct relationship with the supplier ,
📦 But we 'll do the work for you:
- Sorted products,
- Verified suppliers,
- Time and quality tested,
- Launch tips included.
7. 🧠 How to choose a good agent (or a better alternative)?
If you choose an agent, here are the basic criteria :
📍 Physical presence in China,
📋 Ability to visit factories,
💬 Good communication (English/French),
🧾 Complete transparency on costs.
Or... you can save time now with our Born2Succeed packs :
✅ No unnecessary intermediary
✅ No time wasted
✅ No hidden fees
✅ And you are 100% owner of your supplier network
8. 🌏 Negotiating in China: a game of codes
Negotiation in China does not work like in Europe. You must:
✔️ Knowing how not to go straight to the point ,
✔️ Use the human relationship as much as the price ,
✔️ Be able to compare multiple offers locally.
At Born2Succeed , we have already made that cultural connection for you.
The suppliers we offer are ready to work with you , even in small quantities.
✅ Conclusion: the really good strategy
👉 Using a sourcing agent can work , provided that they are competent, transparent, and well-supervised .
But today, if you want to save time, secure your purchases and launch your business quickly , our Born2Succeed supplier packs are a direct, simpler and clearer alternative .
🎯 You get immediate access to tested and reliable suppliers , with fair prices , and without depending on a third party to manage your business.
So, agent or accompanied autonomy?
With Born2Succeed, you stay in control, but without getting bogged down in sourcing.
👉 Discover our packages now and get several months' head start on your project.
💬 Need help choosing your package or asking your suppliers your first questions?
Our team is with you every step of the way. Contact Born2Succeed today.