Sep 16, 2026Buying Guides
How Buying Agents Work: From Product Link to Shipment
The four steps a buying agent follows: your request, your quote, purchase and inspection, then consolidation and shipment.
Step one: send your request
A buying agent starts with whatever information you have. That can be a product link from Taobao or 1688, a photo of the item, or simply a description. You do not need a supplier list or a technical specification sheet to begin.
Step two: confirm your quote
The agent finds the right supplier and confirms the price, the quantity and the shipping cost, so you can see the full picture before any money changes hands. Commission is charged on goods value, and shipping and payment fees are passed through at cost.
Step three: purchase and inspection
Once you approve, the agent buys from the supplier. When the goods arrive at the warehouse, they are checked for model, quantity and quality, and photos or videos are sent to you. Nothing is packed or shipped until you approve what you see.
Step four: consolidation and shipment
Finally the goods are packed together to reduce volume and weight, then handed to your own freight forwarder. If you do not have one, the agent can help you find a reliable forwarder and get a shipping quote.
When a factory audit helps
Before placing a large order it can be worth checking the factory itself. A factory audit visits the site, reviews production and quality control, and returns photos and a report, so you know who you are really buying from.