How end-to-end sourcing on Alibaba.com works

Your business can find or create exactly what you’re looking for here on one of the world’s largest wholesale marketplaces. Then pay for it, ensure its quality, and ship it to your final destination.

Step 1:Find products and sellers

With over 150,000 manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors selling on the platform, you can find or create anything you’re looking for. You can work with sellers to create customized products find finished products that are Ready to Ship within 15 days of when you place the order.

Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip

When you’re searching for products or sellers, you can filter for Trade Assurance, which protects your order and ensures product quality and shipment time.

How to find sellers

How to assess sellers

Step 2:Connect with sellers

Unlike other platforms, you can speak one-on-one with sellers on Alibaba.com to customize your order, negotiate prices or learn more about their business. Once you’ve created a short list of sellers, it’s time to reach out.

Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip

Keep 100% of your communication within the Message Center, making it easier for you to obtain Trade Assurance protection should you need it later.

How to connect with sellers

Step 3:Place and protect your order

When possible, place orders using Alibaba.com Trade Assurance or order protection. Look for the Trade Assurance iconon product listing pages, or ask your seller if it’s offered. Adhere to all Trade Assurance rules and recommendations, including messaging within the Message Center instead of third-party apps.

Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip

Always ask if your seller offers Trade Assurance to ensure your order is protected and payment will be secure.

Alibaba.com Trade Assurance protections

Additional ways you can protect your order

Step 4:Pay on Alibaba.com

Paying suppliers on Alibaba.com is easy and secure. Once you and the seller agree on payment terms, you’ll typically pay an initial balance. The remainder is due when the items are shipped. Buyers can make secure Alibaba.com Trade Assurance payments through the options below.

Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip

You must pay for your order on Alibaba.com, not on third party apps or sites (exception: wire transfer) for your order to qualify for Trade Assurance protection.

Payment methods Alibaba.com accepts

Step 5:Ship and receive your goods

Alibaba.com Logistics has partnered with major players in the industry to provide our customers with reliable and transparent multi-modal shipping solutions

Alibaba.com Trade Assurance tip

Trade Assurance protects your order for 30 days after you receive it.

Did you know you can source your items on Alibaba.com and sell them wholesale on the platform as well?