For sneaker enthusiasts worldwide, acquiring authentic models like the New Balance 990 directly from Chinese wholesale sources can offer significant savings. However, navigating platforms like 1688.com, Alibaba's B2B site, presents language, payment, and shipping hurdles for international buyers. This is where a specialized "Fanhe Xiang" (forwarding) purchasing agent like Loongbuy
Understanding the Loongbuy Service Model
Unlike standard agents, Loongbuy operates as a China-based forward purchasing platform. They act as your local proxy in China, handling the complexities of sourcing, communication, payment, quality inspection, and consolidated international shipping. Their expertise is particularly valuable for dealing with 1688 suppliers, where transactions are typically bulk-oriented and conducted in Mandarin.
Step 1: Research and Product Verification
Begin by searching for "New Balance 990" on 1688.com. You will find numerous suppliers offering varying prices. Caution is crucial: meticulously check seller ratings, transaction history, and buyer reviews. To aid in comparison, we have compiled a detailed spreadsheet of reputable suppliers, model variations, and estimated batch prices. You can access this product analysis via: https://findsspreadsheet.com/. This independent resource helps identify the best value and quality options before proceeding.
Step 2: Registering and Using Your Loongbuy Account
Create an account on the Loongbuy website. Upon registration, you will be assigned a personal China-based warehouse address
Step 3: Placing Your Order on 1688
Once you've selected a supplier on 1688, instead of checking out directly (which often requires Chinese payment methods), you will use Loongbuy's "Help You Purchase" service. Copy the product URL from 1688 and paste it into the order form on Loongbuy's site. Here, you must specify details like size, color, quantity, and any special instructions. Loongbuy will then provide a transparent quote including the product cost, their service fee, and the estimated domestic shipping to their warehouse.
Step 4: Payment and Processing
After funding your Loongbuy account via their supported international payment methods (like PayPal or credit card), they will purchase the item on your behalf. You can then track the domestic logistics of your New Balance 990s as they travel from the 1688 seller to the Loongbuy warehouse.
Step 5: Quality Check and International Shipping
A key advantage of using Loongbuy is their optional quality inspection service. Upon arrival at their warehouse, they can inspect the sneakers for authenticity and defects upon your request. Once you are satisfied, you instruct them to proceed with international shipping. You will choose a carrier (e.g., DHL, EMS, FedEx), declare the value, and pay the final shipping fee based on volumetric or actual weight. Loongbuy will handle customs documentation before dispatching your parcel globally.
Pro Tips and Considerations
- Consolidation:
- Communication:
- Patience is Key:
- Communication:
In conclusion, while buying New Balance 990s from 1688 requires navigating several steps, Loongbuy streamlines the process effectively. By leveraging their local expertise and the supplier information available at https://findsspreadsheet.com/, international buyers can access a wider market of products with confidence and potentially considerable cost benefits.