This article is in preparation.
We are writing a full, in-depth guide on this topic based on 18 years of on-the-ground experience in China. It covers:
- What a sourcing agent does (and does not do)
- Factory identification and vetting
- Price negotiation — what is realistic
- Sampling management
- Pre-shipment quality control
- CE compliance verification
- Freight coordination
- How sourcing agents charge (commission vs fee)
- Red flags: how to spot a fake sourcing agent
Want to be notified when it's published, or have a specific question in the meantime?
Get in touch →Frequently asked questions
How much does a China sourcing agent charge?
Sourcing agents typically charge either a percentage commission (3–8% of order value) or a fixed service fee per project. Commission-based agents present a conflict of interest — they earn more when order values are higher. Fixed-fee agents are generally preferable for Irish buyers as their incentive is aligned with finding the best supplier, not the most expensive one.
How do I know if a China sourcing agent is legitimate?
Legitimate sourcing agents have a physical presence in China (verifiable address), can provide references from existing clients, are transparent about their fee structure, and do not pressure you into rapid commitments. They will offer to provide a factory visit report with photos and documentation. Agents who cannot visit factories or who redirect you to Alibaba are not sourcing agents.
