How to Source Plastic Bags from China — A Buyer's Guide

Sourcing plastic bags directly from a Chinese manufacturer can cut cost significantly versus buying through local distributors — if you verify the factory and specify correctly. Here's a practical checklist for importers and distributors.

Buy from a factory, not a trader

Ask to see production lines and request factory-direct FOB pricing. A real manufacturer can customise size, gauge, colour and print and will quote transparently.

Specify tightly

Provide finished size, thickness (mil or micron), resin (HDPE/LDPE/LLDPE), colour, print artwork, packing (pcs/pack, packs/carton) and target quantity. Ambiguity causes re-quotes and errors.

Sample before bulk

Always approve a physical sample (and a print proof for custom jobs) before mass production. Budget a few days for stock samples, longer for custom-print samples.

Understand terms & shipping

Typical terms are 30% deposit / 70% before shipment, FOB by sea (FCL for ≥~15 CBM, LCL for less). Confirm lead time, incoterm and who arranges freight.

Compliance

Check your market's rules (e.g. minimum bag thickness, recycled-content or compostability requirements) and ask the factory to meet them in writing.

Request a wholesale quote

Send your sizes, thickness, colour and quantity — we reply with FOB pricing, samples and lead time.