In short: bad import experiences almost always come from the same mistakes: choosing on price alone, skipping the sample, defining the product poorly, paying everything upfront, forgetting quality control, underestimating customs and freight. The good news: each one is easy to avoid with the right habits.
1. Choosing the cheapest supplier
A price far below the rest often hides lower quality, different materials or costs added later. Compare equivalent offers, not just prices.
2. Approving without a sample
Photos are not enough. A sample is the only way to judge real quality, and it then serves as the reference for production.
3. Specifications that are too vague
"A cotton bag" can mean a hundred different products. Specify materials, dimensions, colours, finish, packaging and quantity.
4. Paying everything before production
The most common practice is a deposit at launch and the balance before shipping, after quality control. Paying everything upfront leaves you no leverage if something goes wrong.
5. Skipping quality control before shipping
It is your last chance to fix a defect at low cost. Once the goods are with you, it is often too late.
6. Forgetting the costs on arrival
Freight, insurance, customs duties, VAT, port fees, delivery: always compare a landed cost in store, not just a factory price.
7. Using the wrong customs code
The HS code determines the duties and rules that apply. A mistake can be expensive. Have it checked.
8. Ignoring your market's standards
CE marking, toy safety, chemical substances, labelling: a non-compliant product can be blocked or withdrawn from sale. Check the rules before ordering.
9. Underestimating lead times
Between samples, production, shipping and customs, importing takes time. Plan your seasons (back to school, the holidays) several months ahead.
10. Going it alone without experience
Language, time differences, negotiation, logistics: the first import is often the riskiest. Getting support avoids many mistakes.
The checklist before you order
- ☐ Clear, written specifications
- ☐ Several suppliers compared and vetted
- ☐ An approved sample
- ☐ Written terms (price, lead times, Incoterm, payment)
- ☐ Quality control planned before shipping
- ☐ A landed cost in store calculated
- ☐ Your market's standards checked
Frequently asked questions
Which mistake costs the most? Often the lack of quality control: a defective order discovered on arrival can mean a total loss.
Can a mistake be fixed after shipping? It is possible, but slow and costly. Hence the importance of checking everything before departure.
General information, for guidance only.
For your first import, get support. We handle every step with you. → Create my client space