Mistake 1: Skipping the Category Guide
The category guide exists for a reason. It explains what to buy, what to avoid, and how to size. Buyers who skip this step and jump straight to the catalog are the ones who end up with wrong sizes, wrong batches, and wrong expectations.
Mistake 2: Not Requesting QC Photos
QC photos are cheap insurance. For a few dollars, you can inspect the item before it ships internationally. Buyers who skip QC photos are the ones who receive defective items and have no recourse because the parcel is already in their country.
Mistake 3: Ordering the Wrong Size
Rep sizing is not retail sizing. Most factories use Asian sizing charts that run smaller than US sizes. Always measure your body and compare against the factory chart. Never guess based on your usual US size.
Mistake 4: Choosing the Cheapest Shipping Line
The cheapest shipping line is usually the slowest and the most likely to get stuck in customs. A $5 shipping saving is not worth a 3-week delay or a lost parcel. Choose the line that matches your timeline, not just your budget.
Mistake 5: Not Consolidating Shipments
Shipping one item at a time is expensive. The per-item shipping cost drops dramatically when you consolidate 3–5 items into one parcel. Plan your orders so you can ship together.
Mistake 6: Ignoring the Seller's Agent Policy
Not all sellers accept agent orders. Some charge extra fees. Some refuse to ship to agents altogether. Always confirm the seller's agent policy before submitting the link, especially on DHGate.
Mistake 7: Rushing the Order Submission
The order submission form is where you specify color, size, and variant. A rushed submission with vague notes leads to wrong items. Take two minutes to fill in every field correctly.
Mistake 8: Not Understanding the Refund Window
Refunds are only easy before the parcel ships. Once it ships, you need to return the item to the warehouse at your own cost. If you see an issue in the QC photos, act immediately.
Mistake 9: Expecting Amazon Speed
AllChinaBuy is a manual agent service, not an automated retail platform. Expect 3–5 weeks from order to delivery. If you need something in 3 days, do not use an agent.
Mistake 10: Not Checking the Batch Tier
Different batches have different quality levels. A premium batch costs more but looks better. A budget batch is cheaper but may have obvious flaws. Know which batch tier you are buying before you pay.
Mistake 11: Using the Wrong Payment Method
Some payment methods are faster to refund than others. PayPal and credit cards offer buyer protection. Bank transfers and some e-wallets do not. Use a payment method that protects you if something goes wrong.
Mistake 12: Not Reading the Community
Reddit and Discord contain real buyer reviews, timeline reports, and QC comparisons. A five-minute search can save you from a bad seller, a bad batch, or a bad shipping line. Read before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the single biggest mistake?
Skipping QC photos. It is the cheapest insurance against receiving a defective item, and the buyers who skip it have the most regrets.
How do I avoid sizing mistakes?
Measure your body and your favorite items. Compare against the factory size chart. When in doubt, size up.
Can I fix a mistake after submitting?
Sometimes, if the agent has not yet placed the order with the seller. Once the seller ships, changes are much harder.