Sourcing Checklist: 50+ Point China Procurement Checklist

A comprehensive 53-point checklist covering every stage of sourcing products from China. Use this to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

Tip: Check items off as you complete them. This checklist is interactive — your progress is tracked in your browser session.

assignment

Pre-Sourcing Planning

9 items

Define product specifications (dimensions, materials, features, tolerances)Set target FOB price and maximum landed cost per unitDetermine order quantity and reorder frequencyIdentify required certifications (FCC, CE, UL, CPSIA, etc.)Define packaging requirements (retail box, poly bag, FBA-ready)Set project timeline with key milestonesPrepare reference samples or detailed drawingsDefine acceptable quality level (AQL) standardsBudget for tooling, samples, and certification costs

factory

Supplier Selection

9 items

Identify 5–10 potential suppliers (Alibaba, referrals, sourcing agent)Verify business license and registration type (manufacturer vs trader)Request and compare quotations from shortlisted suppliersCheck production capacity and current order loadVerify relevant certifications (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, BSCI)Request reference clients and contact themConduct factory visit or virtual tourEvaluate communication quality and English proficiencyAssess financial stability and years in operation

science

Sample Evaluation

8 items

Request pre-production samples from 2–3 finalized suppliersInspect sample dimensions against your specificationsTest functionality and performance thoroughlyCheck material quality and finish consistencyVerify color accuracy against Pantone or referenceTest packaging durability (drop test, compression test)Confirm compliance markings and label accuracySign off on approved sample with written confirmation

precision_manufacturing

Order & Production

9 items

Issue formal purchase order with all specifications attachedAgree on payment terms (deposit %, balance timing, method)Confirm production timeline with milestone datesRequest first article inspection (FAI) before mass productionSchedule mid-production inspection visitMonitor raw material procurement and qualityTrack production progress against timelineReview packaging and labeling before packing startsConfirm compliance documentation is complete

verified

Quality Control & Inspection

8 items

Schedule pre-shipment inspection (PSI) at AQL 2.5Inspect critical dimensions and functional requirementsCheck appearance — scratches, color consistency, printing qualityVerify labeling, barcodes, and compliance markingsTest product functionality (100% for critical items, sample for others)Inspect packaging — inner box, carton marking, packing quantityReview QC report and approve or reject shipmentDocument and communicate any defects found

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Sourcing Checklist

Pre-Sourcing Planning

Supplier Selection

Sample Evaluation

Order & Production

Quality Control & Inspection

Shipping & Customs

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