Alibaba (ali baba, alibaba dropshipping,alibaba online shopping ) and 1688 are both well-known e-commerce platforms, but they serve distinct purposes and target different types of buyers. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your business needs and purchasing goals.
Although both Alibaba and 1688 CHINA are owned by the same parent company and connect buyers with sellers, their focus is quite different. Alibaba is a global B2B platform designed for international buyers and suppliers, whereas 1688 is a domestic wholesale marketplace that primarily serves businesses within China.
Taobao:
Taobao, also owned by Alibaba Group, is a leading Chinese online shopping platform that primarily serves individual consumers and retail customers. Unlike Alibaba and 1688, which focus on bulk purchasing, Taobao specializes in smaller quantities suited for personal use. The platform is especially popular for its vast product selection, ranging from fashion and electronics to household goods and more, making it an ideal choice for everyday shoppers.
Aspect
Alibaba
1688
Taobao
Target Audience
International businesses
Domestic businesses
Consumers (China)
Language
Multilingual
Chinese
Chinese
Product Authenticity
Emphasis on authenticity
May have authenticity issues
Focus on individual sellers
MOQ
Common for larger orders
More flexibility for smaller orders
Primarily for individuals
Payment Options
Various international methods
Alipay
Alipay
Shipping and Logistics
Experience with international shipping
Domestic logistics
Domestic shipping options
Purpose
B2B and B2C
Primarily B2B
Primarily B2C
Supplier Verification
Verification processes
Variable reliability
Less focus on verification
Product Range
Wide range of products
Broad, domestic products
Broad, domestic products
User Interface
Business-oriented
Business-oriented
Consumer-oriented
Target Audience:
Alibaba: Alibaba.com is designed for international trade, connecting buyers worldwide with Chinese manufacturers and suppliers. It’s the go-to platform for global businesses seeking to import or source products from China.
1688: 1688.com, by contrast, is a Chinese-language platform that mainly serves domestic buyers and sellers within China. It is best suited for those operating in the Chinese market who want to purchase products for local use or resale.
Language and Location:
Alibaba: Alibaba places a stronger emphasis on product authenticity and has established multiple verification processes to ensure supplier credibility. While occasional issues may still arise, the platform is generally considered more reliable for international buyers.
1688: 1688 offers a broader product selection, but it carries higher risks regarding product authenticity and quality control. Conducting thorough due diligence is essential, particularly for international buyers using the platform.
Minimum Order Quantities （MOQ)
Alibaba: Alibaba is primarily geared toward businesses purchasing in bulk. Many suppliers on the platform set minimum order quantities (MOQs), which may not be ideal for individuals or smaller businesses.
1688: 1688 often provides more flexibility for smaller orders, as it caters to domestic buyers in China who may not need large quantities.
Payment Options:
Alibaba: Alibabaoffers various payment options, including Alipay and international payment methods, making it easier for international buyers to transact.
1688:1688 com primarily relies on Alipay for payments, which can be challenging for international buyers who do not have access to an Alipay account.
Shipping and Logistics:
Alibaba: Alibaba generally has greater experience handling international shipping and logistics, which can be a significant advantage for overseas buyers.
1688:1688 com english is primarily focused on domestic logistics within China, making international shipping arrangements less straightforward and potentially more complicated for foreign buyers.
In summary, if you are an international buyer looking to source products from China, Alibaba is generally the better choice due to its global focus, multilingual support, and stronger emphasis on product authenticity.On the other hand, if you are a domestic buyer within China, 1688 may offer a wider range of products at more competitive prices. Alternatively, international buyers can consider hiring a 1688 sourcing agent to facilitate purchases from 1688.com.Regardless of which platform you choose, always conduct thorough due diligence when selecting suppliers to ensure product quality and authenticity.
How to Order from 1688?
Step 1: Translate 1688.com into English
1.Choose Google Chrome: Ensure you are using the Google Chrome web browser.
2.Access Google Translate Extension: Visit the Chrome web store and search for the “Google Translate Chrome extension.”
3.Add to Chrome: Once you’ve found the extension, click on “Add to Chrome.”
4.Confirmation: A confirmation window will appear. Click on “Add Extension.”
5.Extension Added: You will receive a confirmation message in the top right corner of your browser window, indicating that “Google Translate has been added to Chrome.”
6.Visit 1688.com: Go to the 1688.com website. You may notice an automatic pop-up message that prompts you to translate the site into English. If this pop-up does not appear, you can manually click on the Google Translate Chrome extension icon within your browser window.
7.Language Selection: Ensure that English is selected as the target language.
More tips: If you find using translation software cumbersome or the ordering process complicated, you can also use a third-party service provider, such as UGGAD.COM. Once you visit their site, you can place orders directly. They have their own logistics warehouses and can ship your orders straight to your designated country or region, making the process very simple and convenient.
Step 2: Search Your Desired Product on 1688.com
1. Image Upload on 1688.com:
Click the camera icon in the search bar to upload an image of the product you are looking for.
The site’s image recognition feature will try to match your uploaded image with products based on their shape and design.
Note that searching for certain items, like a toaster, may sometimes return similar-shaped products, such as microwave ovens.
Keep in mind that this method requires you to have a 1688 account.
To register an account, you must have a valid ID from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Japan, or South Korea.
Using a VPN will not allow you to bypass this ID requirement.
Search Using English Keywords:
Type your desired keyword in English into the search bar and click “Search” (搜索). For example, entering “golf bag” will display relevant results.
However, there is a limitation: searching in English may yield only a limited number of results—such as 291 for “golf bag”—which does not cover the full range of suppliers available on 1688. To access a more comprehensive selection, it is recommended to conduct your search using Chinese keywords.
Search Using the Chinese Translation of Your Keyword:
Use Google Translate or Google Chrome to obtain the Chinese translation of your main keyword. For example, you can type “translate golf bag to Chinese” in Google Chrome to get the translation.
Then, copy and paste the Chinese translation into the 1688 search bar and click the search button.
You will notice that this method generates a much larger pool of results. For instance, searching for “golf bag” in Chinese can yield 3,725 results, offering thousands more options compared to an English search.
More tips: Alternatively, you can use the free instant online translation tool provided by BSA GROUP. There’s no need to rely on Google Translate—you can translate directly on the page, saving you a lot of time. You can click here to download it.
Step 3: Assessing the 1688.com Listing
It’s essential to understand how 1688.com differs from consumer-focused platforms like Amazon and other sourcing websites such as Alibaba. Operations on 1688.com follow slightly different rules:
Listed Price Accuracy:
The price displayed on a listing often does not reflect the final cost.
Many suppliers intentionally advertise lower prices to attract attention, creating enticing but sometimes unrealistic expectations.
While some listed prices may be accurate, they usually apply only when ordering very large quantities.
Never accept a listing price at face value; always communicate with the supplier to confirm the actual cost
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ):
The MOQ indicated in a listing is generally reliable.
MOQ refers to the minimum number of units a supplier requires for an order to be accepted.
For context, 250 units might be considered a small MOQ, while a large MOQ could be 5,000 units or more.
Typically, higher-priced products (over $25) have smaller MOQs, whereas lower-priced items (under $25) often require larger MOQs.
Ordering quantities above the MOQ can often provide room to negotiate lower unit prices.
Product Availability:
A product image in a supplier’s listing does not guarantee that the item is in stock.
Some listings act as “holding spots” and may remain visible even if the product isn’t available.
The images may represent products currently in stock or items the supplier can manufacture upon request.
Always confirm product availability directly with the supplier before placing an order.
Step 4: Scrutinize the 1688.com Supplier
Verify the Following Criteria:
A longer establishment period generally indicates a lower risk of fraudulent activity. Scammers often appear and disappear quickly, whereas legitimate businesses demonstrate longevity and steady growth.
You can find this information by scrolling down the supplier’s profile or using the search function (Command + F on Mac, Control + F on PC) to look for the term “Established.”
It’s advisable to verify that the supplier has been in operation for at least three years.
Employee Count:
Ensure that the supplier reports a workforce of 50–500 employees.Suppliers with fewer than 50 employees may indicate a trading company, as a full-scale factory typically requires more staff to handle high-volume production.
Suppliers with over 500 employees are likely engaged in large-scale wholesale production, which may offer less flexibility for smaller initial orders.
You can locate this information by searching the supplier’s page using Command + F on Mac or Control + F on PC.
Office Space Size:
For reference, 200 square meters is approximately 2,157 square feet, or roughly half the size of a standard basketball court.
Suppliers with larger facilities are generally less likely to operate as secretive trading companies.
Delivery Guarantee:
If you see a “Delivery Guarantee” badge on the supplier’s page, it means that when you place an order, the supplier deposits 3,000 RMB into a third-party escrow account.
The supplier cannot access these funds until you confirm that the ordered products have been successfully delivered.
Step 5: Connect with the Supplier and Negotiate
Engaging with suppliers and negotiating effectively is crucial when sourcing from 1688.com. Here’s how to do it:
Primary Communication Method:
The most commonly used communication platform on 1688.com is Alitalk.
If you have a 1688 account, you can access Alitalk by clicking the small blue raindrop icon. Alitalk works similarly to chat applications such as WhatsApp or WeChat.
The Challenge:
It’s important to note that most 1688 suppliers on Alitalk may expect conversations to be conducted in Chinese, as they typically assume you are a local retailer.
However, instead of acquiring a Chinese passport or learning a new language, there is a much simpler solution:
Contact Suppliers Directly on WeChat:
WeChat is one of the most widely used messaging applications in China.
Key advantage: WeChat includes built-in translation features, making communication between Chinese and English users much easier.
You can download WeChat for free from the App Store or Google Play Store and create an account.
Once your account is set up:
1.Tap the “Contacts” button at the bottom of the screen.
2.To obtain the supplier’s mobile number on 1688, go to the top menu and click “Contact.”
3.In WeChat, tap the human outline icon with a “+” in the upper right corner to add the supplier.
How to Contact a Supplier on 1688.com without an Account:
Confirm Product Capability: First, verify whether the supplier can manufacture your specific product. Provide detailed specifications, including exact measurements and material types, rather than vague descriptions such as “made of steel.”
Negotiate Strategically: When discussing pricing, avoid focusing on samples, as Chinese suppliers may perceive this as a sign of inexperience. Instead, prioritize negotiating terms for larger order quantities. This strategy not only helps you save more money in the long run but also earns the supplier’s respect.
Step 6: Secure Payment and Manage Your Order
Managing payments and ensuring the integrity of your order is a critical step when dealing with suppliers on 1688.com. Here’s a detailed guide:
Payment Options on 1688:
1688 offers a range of payment options; however, these options are only accessible with an account. To create an account, you must possess a government-issued ID from one of the eligible Southeast Asian countries.
Alternate Approach:
If you don’t have a 1688 account, you can still manage your transactions outside the platform.
Request a Proforma Invoice (P.I.):
Start by determining the total cost of your order, then request a proforma invoice (P.I.) from your supplier or 1688 agent. This document serves as a price quote and outlines the quantity, product details, and purchase terms.
The 30/70 Deal:
Propose the “30/70 deal” to your supplier. Under this arrangement, you pay 30% of the total cost upfront and the remaining 70% upon completion.
Wire Transfer:
Initiate an international wire transfer to your supplier to cover the 30% payment. Keep in mind that this transfer usually incurs fees ranging from $30 to $40 through your banking service.
While wire transfers can be intimidating because the funds are not retrievable, remember that you still have leverage, as you haven’t released the full payment.
Product Inspection:
After your supplier completes the manufacturing process, it is highly recommended to hire a product inspection company in China. You can ask your private members’ community for recommendations to find reputable inspection services.
Provide the inspector with the same detailed specifications you shared with your supplier. Any terms outlined in your contract with the supplier are enforceable during the inspection.
For example, if your product is advertised as a leak-proof water bottle, ensure the inspector tests it for leaks. If durability is a key feature, have the inspector drop the product from shoulder height. Be thorough in checking moving parts and potential points of failure.
Expect the inspector to document the inspection extensively, including dozens of photos and possibly videos. Inspection reports are often very comprehensive and can span 25 pages or more.
The inspection process typically costs between $200 and $500, a small investment compared to the potential loss from a batch of faulty products. Learn from past mistakes—never skip this crucial step.
Negotiate Fixes if Needed:
If the product inspection reveals issues that require correction, approach your supplier. Maintain a firm yet courteous stance. Remember, you hold leverage since 70% of the payment remains pending.
Request a Commercial Invoice:
Request a commercial invoice from your supplier, which is different from a proforma invoice. This document serves as official proof of your purchase for international transactions and contains more detailed information than a proforma invoice.
The responsibility for issuing the commercial invoice lies with the exporter—your supplier.
A commercial invoice is especially valuable in the event of audits by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), as it can be used to substantiate business expenses, particularly when claiming tax deductions. Additionally, platforms like Amazon may require a commercial invoice if there are concerns about product authenticity or if you are applying for access to gated product categories or programs such as Brand Transparency.
The ideal time to request a commercial invoice is just before making the final 70% payment.
Translation and Payment:
Your supplier will provide the commercial invoice in Chinese. Translate it using Google Translate or similar tools to have both Chinese and English versions.
In the end, proceed to wire the remaining 70% of the funds to your supplier. Request a tracking number from your supplier or freight forwarder to monitor the shipment’s progress from China to Amazon’s fulfillment center(s).
Summary of the 1688.com vs Alibaba:
In summary, if you are an international buyer looking to source products from China, Alibaba is usually the better choice due to its international focus, language support, and emphasis on product authenticity.
However, if you are a domestic buyer within China, 1688 might offer a broader range of products at competitive prices. Or, you can consider hire a 1688 sourcing agent to help you buy from 1688.com.
Based on our experience, if you are looking for a wide variety of products with a small Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ), 1688 is undoubtedly an excellent choice.
Simply add the products you are interested in to the links provided in the table, and let an agent handle the subsequent steps of the process for you.
Regardless of which platform you choose, always perform thorough due diligence when selecting suppliers to ensure product quality and authenticity.
jackie
Hi, I’m Jackie, China Sourcing & Shipping Expert. With 20+ years of hands-on experience in China product sourcing, we’ve helped 5000+ clients get the best deals and import from Alibaba, 1688, Taobao to Amazon FBA, Etsy, Ebay, and Shopify
