How to Import Directly from China to Argentina Online?
How to import products from China to Argentina or South America? Many businesses throughout the world depend on Chinese imports to fulfill their inventory requirements.
Unfortunately, anyone new to importing items from China might find the process rather complicated and expensive.
How to Import Directly from China to Argentina Online?
1. Understand Your Role in the Process
You are an importer whenever you purchase products from foreign countries, such as China. All you need to do is give the supplier your address information, and they will do the rest. The shipment will likely come via air or ocean shipping.
Smaller packages with a lesser value will be delivered right to your door. Then you won’t have to pick up your packages from the nearest shipping store.
2. Find the Products You Want Import
Chinese factories make a lot of excellent products but also make a lot of bad products.
There are a lot of Chinese suppliers who sell cheap, low-quality products. You must avoid these products, especially if you’re going to resell them to your customers.
So you should know how to identify good and bad products according to two critical differences between China and Western countries:
- China has Different quality standards from the West countries.
- China has Different norms around intellectual property, and there are a lot of counterfeit products
The best way is to increase the value of the product you wish to import from China. Generally, it comes down to ensuring a differentiated and defensible offer.
In other words, if you control the key products you sell, if no other company sells the same product, and if your customers recognize the difference from your competitors, you are in good shape.
3. Check the Argentina Import Laws
The customs declaration process in Argentina is complex, requiring detailed import documentation. Any mistakes can result in fines or be considered smuggling, so accuracy is crucial. Shipping documents must be precise, and involving customs brokers or registered agents may be necessary. Since 2007, Argentine customs have imposed strict regulations to combat under-invoicing, including standard import value measures for various products.
Key Points for Importers:
- Import Restrictions: Generally, there are no restrictions except for certain used goods. However, specific items like cottonseed, fresh fish, and pharmaceuticals require prior government approval.
- Import Licenses: Argentina abolished the pre-declaration system in 2015 but introduced the Comprehensive Import Monitoring System (SIMI), where over 1,400 products require non-automatic licensing. As of January 2020, 300+ products, including vehicles and electronics, are subject to non-automatic licensing, with the license validity reduced from 180 to 90 days.
- Import Quotas: Temporary quotas exist for certain items like pulp and paper.
- Certificates of Origin: Required in one original and three copies. For specific goods like textiles, consulate authentication is necessary.
- Tariff System: Argentina imposes both general and special tariffs, with special tariffs applied to imports from Mercosur members.
Additional Considerations:
- Customs Clearance Time: Be aware that the clearance process can be slow, especially during peak periods.
- Tax Compliance: Ensure compliance with VAT and other tax requirements to avoid penalties or delays.
- Cargo Inspections: Random inspections may occur, so consistency between goods and documentation is crucial.
- Double Taxation Agreements: If applicable, understanding these agreements can help reduce tax liabilities.
4. Locating the Chinese Supplier
If you know which products you want to buy bulk from China, the next step is to find a supplier who can fulfill your order. Make sure you understand their shipping terms, especially regarding the delivery time.
If you’ve found a supplier who looks good, then request a Proforma Invoice from them. It is also called a Quote Sheet. This documentation will give you specific information about your purchases, such as the weight, packed dimensions, value, and description of each product.
There Is a Complete Guide for: How to find a Chinese wholesaler.
5. Find a Shipping Agent and Calculate the Total Shipping Costs
International shipments have a plethora of fees attached to them. Aside from the standard shipping costs, you also have container fees, broker fees, packaging fees, and terminal handling fees.
Add up the total cost of all these fee so that you know what to expect for your shipping expenses. You can learn the complete guide for: How to ship from China to the US
5.1 Do I Need a Broker to Import from China?
No, you are not legally required to use a broker to import from China. However, using a broker can significantly simplify the process, especially for first-time importers or for complex shipments.
6. Apply Quality Control Measures in China
For high-value or complex imports, consider appointing a quality control inspector in China. They can visit the factory during production to monitor adherence to specifications and identify any potential problems.
- Pre-Production Checks: In the purchase agreement with the supplier, clearly outline your quality expectations. This should include details like materials, dimensions, functionality, tolerances, and any required certifications.
- Pre-shipment inspection: Before mass production shipped, request a pre-shipment inspection from the supplier. This allows you to physically inspect the product, assess its quality against your specifications, and identify any potential issues early on.
- Factory Audits (Optional): Consider conducting a factory audit, especially for complex products or large orders. An auditor will visit the factory to assess their production processes, quality control systems, and worker safety practices.
What is the Best Site for Importing Products from China?
There isn’t a single “best” site for importing products from China, as the ideal platform depends on your specific needs and experience level.
Here’s a breakdown of some popular options, each with its strengths and considerations:
12 Best China Websites to Import Products from China Directly:
Company | Product Category | Sign Up | Business Type |
Supplyia |
Sourcing company | Free | Develop Private Label Products |
Alibaba |
General | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
AliExpress |
General | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
Global Sources |
General | Free | Directory |
Lightinthebox |
Limited category | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
Dhgate.com |
Limited category | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
Madeinchina |
Machinery, Electronics | Free | Directory |
Chinavasion |
Electronic, Gadgets | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
DealExtreme |
Electronic, Gadgets | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
BangGood |
Electronic | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
Tomtop |
Electronic, Gadgets | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
Everbuying |
Electronic | Free | Wholesale & Dropship sites |
1688.com |
General | Free | Chinese wholesale website |
Top 20+ Best China Wholesale Website List to Buy Wholesale From China
How to Choose the Right Platform to Buy from China?
Think about your experience level, product needs, budget, and desired level of control in the import process.
Here’s a quick guide:
- For beginners: Explore platforms with verified suppliers like Global Sources, 1688.com or DHgate.
- For experienced importers: Alibaba offers a wider selection but requires more effort in supplier vetting.
- For smaller orders: DHgate might be suitable due to its focus on faster turnaround times.
- For those needing guidance: Consider a sourcing agent if you’re new to importing or prefer a more hands-off approach.
Now, I’d like to hear what you have to say: Have you faced problems when you import products from China before? If so, how did it go? Let us know by leaving a comment below right now.
Nice information