Found a product on 1688 but unsure what to send a buying agent? Start with a clear purchase brief. A listing image is a useful reference, but a reliable quotation also needs the exact option, quantity and delivery destination.
This guide explains how to prepare a first order with SinoSeekers, what to confirm before purchasing, and how to keep product and shipping costs easy to compare.
1. Send the exact listing and selected options
Share the product URL rather than a screenshot alone whenever possible. Include the seller name, model, color, size, material and quantity for each option. If the listing offers several price tiers, ask which tier applies to your proposed order.
For example, “20 storage baskets” leaves room for interpretation. “20 baskets from this URL, large size, natural color, with lids, no substitutions without approval” is a more useful starting point. This is an illustrative brief, not a product offer.
2. Identify what must match
Explain which details are essential and which are flexible. Measurements, material thickness, finish, packaging and accessories can matter more than a similar-looking photograph. Include a reference drawing or size table if the product must fit another item.
- Exact dimensions and acceptable tolerance, if relevant.
- Required materials, finish and included parts.
- Quantity per variant and any sample request.
- Whether you will accept an alternative seller or product.
3. Request an itemized quotation
Ask for the product cost, delivery within China, buying service fee, receiving and handling, packaging, and international freight to be shown separately. Ask what remains an estimate and how long the quotation is valid. Destination charges should be identified as included or excluded rather than assumed.
SinoSeekers offers a free initial request review and preliminary quotation. Procurement or separately agreed paid research begins after the scope and costs have been approved. Read our fee and quotation guide for more detail.
4. Agree on checks before placing the order
Confirm what receiving checks will cover. Quantity checks and photographs of visible condition can help identify obvious discrepancies. They do not establish every material property, hidden defect or performance characteristic. If your order requires samples, testing or a specialist inspection, discuss that work before purchasing.
5. Review shipping after the goods and packaging are defined
Provide your destination country and postal code at the start. Tell us about fragile items, batteries, liquids or unusually large products so that shipping feasibility can be reviewed. Final freight depends on the goods, packed dimensions, weight and delivery requirements.
If you are buying from several sellers, consider our order consolidation service. Combining eligible purchases may simplify shipping, but it does not guarantee a lower total cost.
What to send for your first quote
Copy this brief into your inquiry: product links; chosen variants; quantity per variant; required specifications; sample needs; destination country and postal code; target budget; preferred timing; and any packaging instructions.
Ready to check your list? Explore our 1688 buying agent service or request a free initial quote. We will review the request and clarify missing details before you commit to procurement.