Step 1: Create and Verify Your Account
Go to the AllChinaBuy website and sign up with your email address. Verification is required before you can place orders. Check your spam folder if the verification email does not arrive within a few minutes. Use an email you check regularly, because order updates, QC notifications, and shipping alerts all go to this address.
Step 2: Add Funds to Your Balance
AllChinaBuy operates on a prepaid balance system. You top up your account, then use that balance to pay for items and shipping. Add slightly more than you expect to need. Having a small buffer prevents delays when you find an extra item in the catalog. The most common payment methods work, and the balance is available immediately after the transaction clears.
Step 3: Find Your Items Using the Spreadsheet
This is where the AllChinaBuy spreadsheet saves you hours. Instead of browsing marketplaces aimlessly, use the spreadsheet to find categorized links. Filter by category, check batch notes, and verify the link is active. Then open the full catalog to browse related items and discover new pieces. The best workflow is: spreadsheet for the known item, catalog for the exploration.
Copy the product link from the marketplace and paste it into the AllChinaBuy order form. Fill in every field:
- Product URL: paste the full link, not a shortened version.
- Size: use the factory size chart, not your usual size.
- Color: be specific. 'Black' is not enough if there are three black variants.
- Quantity: usually 1. Order multiples only after you have tested the seller.
- Notes: add any special requests. 'No shoe box', 'remove tags', 'wrap carefully'.
Step 5: Wait for Seller to Ship
The seller ships to the AllChinaBuy warehouse. This is domestic shipping within China and usually takes 3-7 days. During peak seasons, it can take up to 14 days. You will see a status update in your AllChinaBuy account when the item arrives at the warehouse. Do not panic if it takes 10 days. Sellers have different processing speeds.
QC photos are your only chance to catch issues before international shipping. Request them for every item. Check these specific points:
- Logo placement and accuracy.
- Stitching quality and alignment.
- Material texture and color.
- Size and fit indicators.
- Hardware and functional parts.
- Any damage or defects from shipping to the warehouse.
Step 7: Approve or Return
If the QC photos look good, approve the item for shipping. If you see issues, request a return or exchange immediately. The return window is limited — usually a few days after the QC photos are posted. If you miss it, the item will be shipped to you regardless of quality. Be decisive. If you are unsure, ask the Reddit community for a second opinion.
Once all items are approved, go to the shipping section. Choose a shipping line based on your priorities:
Step 9: Track and Receive
Use the carrier's tracking site, not just AllChinaBuy's tracker. Carrier sites update faster. Once your parcel arrives, inspect everything immediately. Compare against the QC photos. If there are discrepancies, document them with photos. For damage, keep the packaging. The faster you report issues, the better your chances of resolution.
Recommended First Order for Beginners
Start with a low-risk test. A T-shirt and a pair of socks costs under $30 and teaches you the entire workflow. After you receive your first parcel and understand the process, scale up to shoes, jackets, and sets. Do not start with a $500 haul. The learning curve is real, and mistakes are cheaper on small orders.