Resources · Sourcing in China
Practical tips for the Yiwu and Guangzhou wholesale markets: browsing, negotiating and consolidating
Category layout of Yiwu International Trade City and Guangzhou's main wholesale markets, the sample-to-order process, deposit and delivery habits, and how to consolidate goods from several vendors into one container.
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Yiwu International Trade City focuses on household goods and small commodities, suited to many categories in small volumes; Guangzhou is strong in clothing, shoes and bags, beauty and electronic accessories. Both usually follow "see samples, order, pay deposit, deliver to a designated warehouse, ship as a consolidated container". The key is getting clear paperwork from every vendor.
Information updated: 2026-10-03
What each market offers
| Market | Main categories | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Yiwu International Trade City | Jewellery, toys, household goods, hardware, stationery, festive goods | Many vendors and categories; well suited to multi-category consolidation |
| Guangzhou (Baima, Shahe, Zhanxi, etc.) | Clothing, shoes | Styles update fast; mostly wholesalers and traders |
| Guangzhou (Meibo City, etc.) | Beauty, personal care | Mind the registration and labelling needed to import cosmetics |
| Guangzhou / Shenzhen electronics markets | Phone accessories, small electronics | Battery-powered products need battery documents for export |
Ordering process
- See samples: note the shop number, item number, unit price and minimum order.
- Order: get an order sheet stating item number, quantity, unit price and lead time.
- Pay the deposit: usually about 30%; keep the receipt.
- Delivery: have the vendor deliver to the logistics warehouse you designate, with your shipping marks on the cartons.
- Check on receipt: the warehouse counts against the order sheet, and you pay the balance once it's confirmed.
Consolidation tips
- Every vendor's goods need a packing list with specific descriptions, not just "general goods".
- When mixing categories, the declaration must list each description and quantity item by item.
- Tell your forwarder separately about sensitive goods (battery-powered, liquids, powders, counterfeit-brand risk).