This is the single most common opening question DA Global Sourcing receives — not from large trading companies, but from people with a clear business idea, who know exactly what they want to sell, but have never imported a single shipment in their life.

5 Practical Steps Before Your First Shipment

  • Define the product and specification clearly — the more specific (dimensions, material, technical standard), the easier it is to find the right supplier
  • Check whether the product is allowed to be imported — some goods are banned, restricted, or require a specialized license
  • Determine the HS code and duty rate — so you can calculate real cost and judge whether the business is viable before committing
  • Find a supplier — search B2B platforms yourself, or have a sourcing company find and verify one for you
  • Calculate the total landed cost — goods + shipping + duty + port fees, before placing a real order

If You Have a Product in Mind but Don't Know Where the Supplier Is

This is extremely common — you don't have to dig through dozens of storefronts on Alibaba or similar platforms yourself. DA Global Sourcing can take your product requirement, research the market, and propose a shortlist of pre-verified suppliers before you have to evaluate each option on your own.

If You Don't Know the Official Import Process

Official import (chính ngạch — through formal channels, with full documentation and customs declaration) is the only format suitable for serious, long-term business. If you've never done this before, hiring someone to handle the whole thing — from documents to customs filing — is usually far safer and faster than learning on the fly with real goods on the line.

When to DIY vs. When to Outsource the Whole Thing

If this is a first test shipment, or you have no experience with HS codes, Incoterms, or customs procedures, outsourcing the whole process reduces the risk of costly mistakes and shortens the time from idea to goods actually landing in your warehouse. DIY makes more sense once you have experience and enough volume to justify an in-house team.

Frequently Asked Questions

I don't have a supplier yet — can I still start with DA Global Sourcing?
Yes — just describe the product and your requirement, and we support everything from sourcing through to delivery at your warehouse.

Should I hire a company to handle the whole import process for my very first shipment?
Generally yes, especially if you've never done it before — the cost of outsourcing one shipment is usually far lower than the risk of a costly first-time mistake.

How long from first contact to a preliminary quote?
Usually a few business days once we have enough information about the product, specification, and expected quantity.