1688 Dropshipping: The Ultimate Guide in 2025

If you’re looking to source products at the lowest possible prices, chances are you’ve already heard of 1688.com, China’s go-to wholesale platform that even many AliExpress and Alibaba sellers use behind the scenes.

But can you actually dropship from 1688? And if so, how do you deal with the language barrier, local payment methods, and lack of international shipping?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to start dropshipping with 1688 in 2025, from how the platform works and how to find suppliers, to using dropshipping agents, placing orders, and avoiding common mistakes.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to cut product costs and improve margins, this guide will help you make the most of 1688, even if you don’t speak Chinese or have a warehouse in China.

What Is 1688?

1688.com is one of China’s largest online wholesale marketplaces, owned by Alibaba Group. While Alibaba focuses on international buyers, 1688 is designed for the Chinese domestic market, offering much lower prices and access to a broader range of local suppliers and manufacturers.

Think of it as the Chinese version of Alibaba, but with factory-direct pricing, more product variety, and local trade tools built for Chinese businesses.

That’s why many Chinese sellers on Alibaba, AliExpress, or Amazon actually source their products from 1688.

However, because 1688 is meant for use within China:

• The platform is entirely in Chinese
• Most sellers don’t ship internationally
• Payment options are limited (no PayPal or international cards)

Despite these challenges, 1688 is a powerful resource for dropshippers and ecommerce businesses, especially when paired with a sourcing or dropshipping agent who can help you navigate the platform.

Can We Dropship from 1688?

Yes, you can dropship from 1688, but not directly. Since 1688 is built for the Chinese market, most sellers don’t support international shipping or dropshipping in the way global sellers might on platforms like AliExpress.

However, with the help of a 1688 dropshipping agent or a third-party fulfillment service, you can absolutely use 1688 to source products for your online store.

We’ve covered how to do it in detail later in this article but here’s a brief overview of how it works in practice:

• You find a product on 1688
• Your agent or service provider purchases it for you
• They inspect the item, repackage it, and ship it to your customer
• You never have to hold inventory or speak directly with the supplier

Dropshipping from 1688 is often lucrative for sellers due to the very low prices, so the profit margins are great.

For example, let’s take a look at the following screenshots below to compare the pricing of the same product on 1688 vs another wholesale sourcing website, Global Sources:

In 1688, this dog bed is listed for 52 to 82 Chinese Yuan per piece, which is equivalent to $7.17 – $11.31 only.

Whereas in Global Sources, the same pet bed is listed for $12.95 to $14.10 per piece.

So while you can’t dropship directly through 1688 on your own, it’s a highly effective platform when used with the right support.

The Pros and Cons of 1688 Dropshipping

Pros

• Factory-level pricing: Products on 1688 are often cheaper than on AliExpress or Alibaba because you’re buying directly from Chinese manufacturers.
• Wide product selection: 1688 offers access to thousands of suppliers across almost every category, many of which are not listed on global platforms.
• Better profit margins: Lower sourcing costs mean you can set higher markups and still remain competitive.
• Private label opportunities: Many 1688 suppliers allow for custom logos, packaging, and branding, ideal if you’re building your own brand.
• Reliable stock availability: Since many AliExpress sellers source from 1688, going direct gives you quicker access to in-demand products.

Cons

• Language barrier: The 1688 website is primarily in Chinese, which can be challenging if you don’t speak the language. Translation tools can help, but they are not always perfect, which might lead to misunderstandings.
• No international shipping: Most 1688 suppliers only ship within China. You’ll need a local agent or fulfillment center to forward orders overseas.
• Limited payment options: International payment methods like PayPal and credit cards are not supported. Transactions usually require local payment channels or a dropshipping agent.
• Lack of automation tools: 1688 doesn’t integrate directly with dropshipping platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, so processes are more manual.
• Risk of unreliable suppliers: As with any large marketplace, some suppliers may offer poor quality or inconsistent service. It’s important to vet suppliers or work with someone who can.

How to Do Dropshipping with 1688?

Dropshipping with 1688.com opens the door to factory-level pricing and a huge variety of products, but it also requires a different approach than using AliExpress or Alibaba.

Since 1688 is built for the Chinese domestic market, the process can seem intimidating at first. Here’s how to make it work, step by step.

Step 1. Set Up an Account

To start dropshipping with 1688, first create an account on 1688.com. Use Google Chrome for automatic translation. Click the registration button and fill out the required details. Verify your email and phone number to complete the process.

You can find the registration button here (red box):

When clicked, you will be redirected to the sign-up page where you will choose to register for either a corporate account or a personal account.

Step 2. Product Research

Before diving into 1688, start with product research. Look for items that are trending on platforms like TikTok, Amazon, or even AliExpress, and then check if they’re available at lower prices on 1688.

Since the platform is in Chinese, using image search is one of the easiest ways to find a product. You can upload a screenshot or photo, and 1688 will show visually similar listings.

Focus on high-demand, low-competition products to maximize profit margins. Once you find a product that matches your niche and budget, you’re ready to move forward.

Step 3. Communicate with Suppliers

Language barriers can be challenging. Use tools like Google Translate to communicate with suppliers. Start conversations with simple and clear questions. Building a good relationship can help in negotiating better prices and terms.

Step 4. Place Orders

After finding a reliable supplier, place your dropshipping orders. Understand the minimum order quantity (MOQ) requirements.

We recommend starting with a test order. This lets you check the product’s quality, packaging, and delivery time before listing it in your store. If the sample meets your standards, you can confidently add it to your product catalog.

Some suppliers might be flexible if you explain your dropshipping model. Always double-check product details and shipping costs before confirming the order.

Step 5. Shipping and Logistics

1688 mainly ships within China. Use third-party agents to handle international shipping. Options like ePacket, China Post, and DHL are available through agents. Make sure the agent can provide reliable tracking and timely delivery.

Follow these steps to start dropshipping with 1688 and leverage the benefits of a large wholesale platform with competitive prices.

How to Select Reliable 1688 Suppliers for Dropshipping?

You need to consider several factors to find the best suppliers on 1688 for dropshipping. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Supplier Ratings and Reviews

Start by checking the suppliers’ ratings and reviews. High ratings and positive feedback from other dropshippers can help you identify reliable suppliers. This information is usually available on the supplier’s page.

Let’s take this supplier on 1688 for an example:

Enclosed in the red box are the details about the supplier–their star ratings, business tenure in years in 1688, return rate, and more. You can access this pop-up box by placing your cursor onto the supplier name.

Length of Time in Business

Look at how long a supplier has been in business. Suppliers with longer track records are generally more reliable. You can often find this information on their profiles on 1688.

Product Quality and Variety

Evaluate the quality and variety of products the supplier offers. It’s important to ensure that the products meet your quality standards. Ordering samples can be an excellent way to verify this.

Communication Responsiveness

Effective communication is crucial in dropshipping. Contact potential suppliers to see how quickly and effectively they respond to your inquiries. Good suppliers typically respond within 24-48 hours.

Third-Party Verification Services

Use third-party verification services such as Alibaba Trade Assurance. These services can help you verify the legitimacy of suppliers and protect your transactions.

Expert Guides

Refer to expert guides for evaluating suppliers. Many websites offer detailed tips on selecting reliable suppliers on 1688.

What Is a 1688 Dropshipping Agent and Why Use One?

A 1688 dropshipping agent is a third-party service provider who helps you source, purchase, and ship products from 1688.com. Since the platform is built for domestic Chinese sellers, most suppliers don’t support international buyers or dropshipping by default. That’s where agents come in.

These agents act as a bridge between you and the Chinese supplier. They handle communication in Chinese, place orders using local payment methods, inspect the products for quality, and then repackage and ship them directly to your customer.

Some also offer additional services like photo shoots, branding, and bulk storage.

Using a 1688 agent is especially helpful if:

• You don’t speak Chinese
• You can’t pay using Alipay or WeChat Pay
• You want to avoid buying in bulk upfront
• You need someone to consolidate products from multiple suppliers

Without an agent, dropshipping from 1688 can be risky and time-consuming. But with the right partner, it becomes a powerful way to access factory-direct pricing while keeping your operations lean.

Sourcing Agents for 1688 vs. Doing It Yourself

When it comes to dropshipping from 1688, you have two main options: work with a sourcing agent or try to handle everything on your own.

Each approach has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your experience level, budget, and how much time you’re willing to invest.

Working with a Sourcing Agent

As discussed above, sourcing agents act as your local partner in China. They’ll search for suppliers based on your product requirements, communicate in Chinese, negotiate prices, and place orders for you.

Most agents also inspect the products, handle repackaging, and ship them directly to your customers. Some even provide private label services or offer real-time dashboards to manage your orders.

For most beginners and growing stores, working with an agent is the easiest and most reliable option. It saves time, reduces mistakes, and gives you access to better supplier relationships and pricing.

Doing It Yourself

If you’re fluent in Chinese and familiar with cross-border logistics, it’s possible to handle sourcing directly.

You can browse 1688 using translation tools, contact suppliers via Aliwangwang (1688’s messaging app), and use a freight forwarder to manage shipping.

However, this DIY approach comes with challenges. Communication can be tricky, payment options are limited, and managing fulfillment takes a lot of time.

It may be more cost-effective if you’re placing large, repeated orders, but for small dropshipping businesses, it can slow you down and introduce unnecessary risk.

Professional Advice

If you’re just starting out or scaling a store, working with a sourcing agent is the more practical path.

They help you avoid common pitfalls and let you focus on growing your business instead of managing suppliers and shipping details.

Once you’ve gained more experience (and volume), you can decide if going direct makes sense.

How to Pay 1688 Suppliers for Dropship or Wholesale?

Paying suppliers on 1688 can be different from other platforms. Here are the main payment methods you’ll encounter:

Payment Methods

1. Alipay
2. Bank Transfers
3. Third-Party Payment Processors

Pros and Cons

Alipay

• Pros: Widely accepted, fast, secure.
• Cons: You need a Chinese bank account to link.

Bank Transfers

• Pros: Direct payment, no intermediary fees.
• Cons: Longer processing time, may incur higher fees.

Third-Party Payment Processors

• Pros: Convenient for international buyers, support multiple currencies.
• Cons: Additional fees, might take longer to process.

Setting Up and Using Payment Methods

Alipay

1. Create an Alipay account: Go to the Alipay website and sign up.
2. Link your bank account: Follow the instructions to connect your Chinese bank account.
3. Verify your identity: Complete the necessary verification steps.
4. Make payments: Use Alipay at checkout on 1688.

Bank Transfers

1. Contact your bank: Initiate an international wire transfer.
2. Details needed: Provide the supplier’s bank details and the exact payment amount.
3. Confirmation: Wait for the bank to confirm the transfer.

Third-Party Payment Processors

1. Choose a processor: Popular choices include PayPal and Western Union.
2. Set up an account: Register and link your bank or credit card.
3. Payment: Use the third-party service to transfer funds to the supplier.

Using these methods, you can manage your payments on 1688 efficiently and securely.

Tips for Successful 1688 Dropshipping

1. Effective Communication with Suppliers.

Regularly chat with your supplier to ensure product quality and timely shipping. Good relations can help in negotiating better deals and resolving issues faster.

2. Streamline Inventory Management.

Always keep track of your stock levels and stay informed about popular products. Use tools to automate inventory tracking to avoid running out of stock.

3. Stay Updated with 1688 Platform Changes and Promotions.

Knowing about new features and discounts can give you an edge. Follow relevant blogs and official announcements.

4. Work with Agents.

Many experienced dropshippers suggest working with 1688 agents to handle tasks like quality control and dealing with language barriers. This can help save time and trouble.

5. Offer Free Shipping Options.

Free shipping options can attract more customers to your online store. Look for suppliers offering free or low-cost shipping solutions to enhance your profit margins.

6. Verify Your Suppliers.

Always verify your suppliers. Check their ratings and reviews. A reliable supplier means fewer headaches and happier customers. Use trusted methods to authenticate their credibility.

7. Consider Sourcing a Wide Range of Products.

1688 has numerous suppliers with varied offerings, allowing you to diversify your store’s inventory. This can help you meet different customer needs and increase sales.

FAQs about 1688 Dropshipping

Dropshipping from 1688.com involves understanding its legitimacy, comparing it with Alibaba, knowing shipping options, and determining product availability. Learn how to integrate 1688 with Shopify for a smooth dropshipping experience.

Is 1688 Legit?

Yes, 1688 is a legitimate platform. It is operated by the Alibaba Group, which is well-known globally. The platform has gained trust for providing quality products and reliable services.

Many eCommerce experts and industry reviews support its credibility as a trusted dropshipping source.

Can I Use PayPal with 1688?

No, 1688 does not accept PayPal. The platform is built for domestic Chinese buyers, so it only supports local payment methods like Alipay, WeChat Pay, and bank transfers within China.

If you’re an international buyer, the easiest workaround is to use a 1688 dropshipping or sourcing agent. Your agent can make the payment to the supplier on your behalf using accepted methods, while you pay the agent using PayPal, Wise, Payoneer, or another international service.

So while you can’t pay suppliers on 1688 directly with PayPal, you can still use it indirectly by working through an agent.

Is Alibaba the Same as 1688?

No, Alibaba and 1688 are not the same. Both are owned by the Alibaba Group but serve different purposes.

Alibaba.com targets global businesses, while 1688.com caters primarily to the Chinese market. 1688 often offers lower prices than Alibaba and focuses on domestic transactions within China.

Can 1688 Ship to the USA?

Yes, 1688 can ship to the USA. However, direct shipping is not always available. You may need third-party logistics providers to facilitate the shipping.

Using these services can ensure your products reach international destinations efficiently.

What Products Can Be Purchased from 1688.com?

1688.com offers a wide variety of products. You can find electronics, clothing, home goods, beauty products, and more.

The platform supports numerous categories, allowing you to source almost any item you need for dropshipping.

Examples include wholesale apparel, consumer electronics, and home essentials, showcasing the vast range of products.

How Do I Import from 1688 to Shopify?

To import from 1688 to Shopify, follow these steps:

1. Use a tool or app designed for 1688 and Shopify integration.
2. Install apps like Oberlo or Importify.
3. Search for products on 1688.com.
4. Add desired products to your Shopify store using the app.
5. Manage orders and customer service through your Shopify dashboard.

You can find step-by-step guidance through Shopify’s own resources and third-party app documentation to streamline the process.

Final Thoughts

Dropshipping from 1688 can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re new to the platform or don’t speak Chinese.

But with the right strategy, and the right support, it can be one of the most cost-effective and scalable ways to grow your ecommerce business.

From finding reliable suppliers and using dropshipping agents to navigating payments and fulfillment, each step becomes easier with the right guidance.

Taking advantage of these tips can streamline your dropshipping experience and help you avoid costly mistakes.

If you’re ready to start sourcing from 1688, submit a free sourcing request and let NicheDropshipping help you find the right products, suppliers, and solutions, tailored to your business.