Before paying a China sourcing agent, ask exactly what the fee covers, how it is calculated, and what stays outside the scope. A clear written agreement protects both sides and prevents surprise charges later.
Common fee models
| Model | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | A percentage of product value or order amount | Ongoing purchasing across suppliers |
| Fixed project fee | One price for a defined scope (e.g., a sourcing project) | Single, well-defined project |
| Hourly / retainer | Time-based for coordination and management | Long-term supplier management |
Questions to ask before you pay
- What exactly is included — sourcing, samples, inspection, consolidation, shipping?
- Are freight, inspection and sample costs separate?
- How are conflicts of interest handled if the agent also earns from a supplier?
- What are the payment terms (for example T/T) and when is each stage billed?
- Who keeps control of supplier relationships and contracts?
What a good agreement should make clear
The scope of work, the fee basis, excluded costs, the communication cadence, and which decisions remain yours. We discuss your requirements first and propose a written structure before any work begins. There are no vague promises or hidden markups.
If you have a network of clients who need China sourcing, our Partner Program explains how collaboration works without commission promises we cannot keep.
Red flags to avoid
- Refusal to put the scope in writing
- Guarantees of unrealistically low MOQs or "tax-included, zero-risk" shipping
- Pressure to pay before the service is defined
When the scope is clear, the fee is easy to evaluate. Send your requirements and we will outline a structure that fits your project.