The Beginner's Guide to Importing Heavy Machinery from China

Quality control should not be a single inspection at the end. Build a multi-point QC plan: (1) raw material inspection before production starts, (2) first article inspection when the first unit comes off the line, (3) in-process inspection at 30% and 60% completion, (4) pre-shipment inspection when 80% is packed, (5) container loading supervision. Each step costs a fraction of catching defects at the destination.

Incoterms 2026 clarified several points that often caused confusion. Under FOB, the seller's responsibility ends when goods are loaded on the vessel. Under CIF, the seller arranges and pays for freight and insurance but risk transfers at the port of origin. DDP means the seller bears all costs and risks until delivery. Choose based on your logistics capability, not habit. CIF seems easier but you lose control of shipping decisions.

Sample development has three stages with different costs. Stage 1 — existing sample or stock item: free or low cost, typically 1-3 days. Stage 2 — modified sample based on existing design: medium cost, 5-10 days. Stage 3 — fully custom sample: highest cost, 15-30 days. Many buyers skip to Stage 3 when Stage 1 or 2 would suffice. Save your custom development budget for when it truly matters.

Payment terms follow a standard progression in China. Transaction 1: 30% deposit, 70% before shipment. Transaction 2-3: 30% deposit, 70% against B/L copy. After 1 year: possible 30% deposit, 70% 30 days after B/L date. L/C at sight is standard for large transactions. Never jump ahead in this progression — let the track record justify each step. Trust is earned through consistent performance.