How to place a small trial order from Yiwu market
Many buyers want to test a product before committing to a big order. Yiwu market suits this, because many booths sell from stock in smaller quantities than a factory would. Here is how to plan a trial order.
1. Know the minimums
Each supplier sets its own minimum order quantity (MOQ). In Yiwu it is often one carton, or a few hundred pieces per item; custom logos or packaging usually need more. We tell you the minimum for each item before you decide, and ask for less where we can. We have no quantity minimum of our own beyond our US$50 service-fee floor per sourcing order.
2. Start with photos, video or samples
Send a photo, a link or a description. We find options and send prices with photos and videos. If you want to hold the product, we post samples by express (billed at cost).
3. Mix several items in one order
A trial often works better as several products in small quantities, packed in one shipment. You learn which products sell, and the fixed costs (service fee minimum, shipping) are shared across more items.
4. Add up the real cost
For each item, the landed cost is roughly:
- Product price × quantity
- + our service fee (flat 10% of goods value, minimum US$50 per order)
- + international shipping
- + import duties and taxes in your country (unless you choose door to door, duties paid)
- + payment fees, if you pay by PayPal
Divide by the number of pieces to get the cost per unit, and compare it with what you can sell it for.
5. Pick shipping that fits a small order
For small, light orders express courier is often simplest. Heavier trial orders may be cheaper by air or shared sea freight. We quote the options for your city.
6. Check your own rules
Some products need test reports or certificates in your market, especially children's products, cosmetics and electronics. Check this before ordering; it matters even for small quantities. We do not buy fake brands or copies of famous logos.
Trial order checklist
- Product photos or links, with target price if you have one
- Quantity per item and variant
- Destination city and country
- Whether you need your logo or custom packaging
- Any rules for your market (certificates, labels)