1. Why "comparison" matters
Fee structures for China import proxies differ completely from company to company. Even if you pick one thinking "the commission is low," it often ends up more expensive once inspection fees, shipping and packing materials are added.
Conversely, comparing carefully upfront can create a difference of thousands to tens of thousands of yen per sourcing run, even on the same item. If you source many times a month, that difference grows into a large sum over a year.
2. Proxies fall into 4 types
First, know that proxies broadly fall into 4 types. Without knowing which type fits you, looking only at a "top 10 recommended" list won't help you choose.
Major platform type
For individuals, beginnersRegister and order on a website (e.g., a proxy-buying platform). Systematized and easy to use, though customization such as inspection tends to be limited.
Individual / small-scale type
Flexible supportDirect back-and-forth via LINE or email. Often handles detailed requests (inspection details, packing specs) and accepts orders from a single item.
Drop-shipping (D2C) specialist
For resale & ECSpecialized in "no-stock direct shipping": goods arrive at the warehouse, are inspected, then shipped straight to the end user. For those who want to sell without holding stock.
OEM / manufacturing specialist
For companiesStrong in OEM production with factories, bulk sourcing, and branded goods manufacturing. Supports everything from factory negotiation to quality control.
3. Typical fees by type
These are only general estimates. Always confirm actual fees with each company. Use this section to grasp the overall picture of "what costs arise."
| Cost item | Typical range | Cautions |
|---|---|---|
| Registration / monthly fee | Β₯0 to tens of thousands of yen / month | More companies now charge Β₯0. High monthly fees suit heavy users. |
| Purchasing commission | Roughly 3β10% of product price | A minimum commission (a few hundred yen per order) may apply. |
| Inspection fee | Tens to hundreds of yen per item | Always check "basic (free)" vs "detailed (paid)" inspection. |
| Packing / processing fee | Tens of yen per item and up | Tag removal, bag replacement and set packing are often billed separately. |
| International shipping | At actual cost (varies by air / sea) | Volumetric weight calculation differs by company β check. |
| Exchange rate | Each company's own rate | The least visible difference; the rate gap alone can mean hundreds to thousands of yen. |
4. 7 points to compare
Why does the total differ by thousands of yen for the same item? Because the comparison points are not on the price list. Always check these 7.
| # | What to check | What to look at | Sign of a good provider |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exchange rate | Gap between applied and market rate | Rate published clearly |
| 2 | Inspection quality & cost | What basic inspection covers; detailed inspection fee | Inspection items written out specifically |
| 3 | How shipping is calculated | Volumetric weight factor, minimum charge | A shipping simulator is available |
| 4 | Packing / processing fees | Tag removal, bag replacement, set packing rates | Detailed price list published |
| 5 | Response speed | Speed of quotes and replies | Replies to inquiries within 24 hours |
| 6 | Quality of Japanese support | Staff responsiveness, clarity of explanations | A contact point where you can talk in Japanese directly |
| 7 | Handling of trouble | Compensation terms for defects / damage | Exchange and refund terms written in plain terms |
5. Beware of "hidden cost" traps
These are typical costs you wouldn't notice from the price list alone, only to be billed later.
Exchange-rate margin
Companies applying a rate 3β5% above market are not rare. On a Β₯100,000 order, that is a Β₯3,000β5,000 difference.
Tip: confirm the applied rate first.The "basic inspection" trap
"Free inspection" may be only a visual check without opening the box β leaving the risk that defective goods arrive as-is.
Tip: confirm exactly what inspection covers (whether items are opened, what is checked).Shipping jumps via volumetric weight
Light but large items are charged by volumetric weight. The factor (Γ·5000βΓ·7000) differs by company, and shipping can nearly double for the same item.
Tip: confirm the volumetric weight formula before ordering bulky items.Minimum commission / fixed charges
Even when "3% commission" is advertised, a minimum of Β₯500 per order may apply. The smaller the order, the bigger the impact.
Tip: check whether a minimum commission exists (allallbuy: no minimum commission, from a single item).6. Which type fits you β a self-check
Follow the flow below to check which type suits you.
want to do?
Yes β Type C (drop-shipping specialist) is the first choice. No β Type B (small-scale type) for sourcing + inspection
yourself?
Just want to buy existing products β next question
frequency?
Ongoing monthly sourcing β Type B (proceed with consultation) for peace of mind
preferences?
Just cheap and easy β Type A
7. Try it out! Why we recommend a test order
No matter how good the reputation, you can't know a proxy until you actually use it. Start with a small test order and check the following 5 points.
| Check item | Pass line |
|---|---|
| Quote reply speed | Reply within 24 hours |
| Quote accuracy | Final bill roughly matches the quote (within Β±5%) |
| Inspection quality | No damage, dirt or defects; easy-to-understand reports |
| Packing care | Items packed safely (without excessive packing) |
| Japanese support | Questions answered without stress |
8. allallbuy comparison points
Finally, here honestly is what sets allallbuy apart from other companies. Use it as a reference when comparing.
| Point | allallbuy features |
|---|---|
| Monthly fee | No monthly fee, no initial cost |
| Order scale | From a single item. Same pricing for individuals and companies |
| Languages | Support in 4 languages: Japanese, Chinese, Korean and English |
| Inspection system | Rich options: inspection, tag removal, bag replacement, measurement, needle detection |
| Logistics | Choose from B2C air, B2B air and fast sea freight (3 methods) |
| Services | Sourcing proxy, drop shipping, OEM and international logistics β one stop |
| Price transparency | All fees published online (no hidden costs) |
Related guides: How to choose a Taobao & 1688 proxy service οΌ How to start drop shipping οΌ Complete guide to starting China import proxy buying
9. FAQ
10. Summary
The key points for choosing a China import proxy come down to these 3.
- Choose the type that fits you from the 4 options (major / small-scale / drop-shipping / OEM)
- Compare not just the price list but exchange rate, inspection details and how shipping is calculated
- Start with a small test order to verify the total and service quality
Not sure which type fits you, or just want to consult first β feel free to contact allallbuy. We'll work with you on the method that fits your sourcing style.
Not sure which China import proxy to pick? Start with a consultation.
No monthly fee, from a single item. All pricing is published. We'll suggest the approach that fits you.