Importing products from China can be irresistible. It has several parts, from product sourcing to getting the right sourcing agent.
Well, the importation gets easier when you know the crucial steps. And that’s what this article offers. Here, we explore what you need to import phones from China and Hong Kong.
Key Highlights!
- Do you know the rules you need to follow when importing phones from China and Hong Kong? Learn the entire sourcing process.
- Are you aware of the safety and quality standards smartphones must meet? We will help you understand the compliance process.
- Do you want to make the import process more efficient and affordable? Check our tips to optimize your supply chain.
Latest Trends in Smartphone Imports from China and Hong Kong
| Trend | Impact on Smartphone Imports |
| 5G Technology | Increased demand for 5G-enabled devices. It needs faster and more efficient supply chains. |
| Artificial Intelligence | There is a growing demand for smartphones with AI features. So, you must find Chinese reliable manufacturers with advanced manufacturing units. |
| Emerging Markets | The markets in Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia are growing. It can offer new opportunities for smartphone importers. |
| Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality | The latest AR and VR technologies can drive demand for smartphones. |
Things You Get by Importing Smartphones from China and Hong Kong
China is at the forefront of industrialisation, but does this extend to smartphones? What makes the country suitable for imports? Here, we highlight the expected benefits of buying products from China:
1) Incredible Prices
The Chinese phone market features cheap prices that pair well with the public. The pricing is due to the country’s low labour cost because of its massive population. Also, manufacturers assemble phones quickly since they have easy access to raw materials. All these factors spearhead lower prices.
2) Advanced Technological Features
China’s products are easy favourites thanks to their advanced technological features. The Chinese government promotes favourable policies. It has led to the creation of many high-tech industries. Hence, the phone market can incorporate high-end technological features.
More consumers move away from typical features and towards distinguished features. China suppliers flood the market with top-quality cameras and novel designs. The offering matches customer needs, making it an attractive choice.
3) Largest Smartphone Exporter Globally
As the largest exporter of smartphones, you should expect a remarkable product variety. Hence, you can expect different vendors. It is economic 101 that multiple vendors help keep the market competitive. That means you can expect regular innovations. Moreover, the prices tend to be in check.
Should I Import Phones from Hong Kong or Mainland China?
Most importers of mobile phones from China are confused as to whether they should import from Hong Kong or Mainland China. Both have varying advantages depending on what you’re importing, complete devices or parts and accessories. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you.
1. Importing Phones from Hong Kong
✓ Duty-Free Zone
Being a free port, Hong Kong does not impose customs duties on transit goods. That is, you will not have to pay additional import tax when importing phones through Hong Kong.
✓ Tax-Friendly Policies
Businesses in Hong Kong have low taxation rates. Capital gains, dividends, and interest are all exempt from taxation, and there is no estate or wealth tax, all of which reduces the overhead expenses for importers.
✓ Qualifies for China’s Export Tax Rebate
Phones are usually produced in Mainland China, where overheads in the factory are lower, and then exported to Hong Kong. Once on the mainland, they qualify for an export tax rebate, which in effect reduces your total cost.
✓ Global Phone Versions Available
Hong Kong offers international versions of phones with English packaging and default English language settings. These phones usually have key apps (e.g. Google Play Store, Gmail, Facebook) that are blocked in Mainland China. Mainland China phones usually have Chinese software and packaging.
2. Importing from Mainland China
✓ Best Source for Phone Parts
Mainland China — particularly Shenzhen’s Huaqiangbei Market — is the global epicentre for smartphone parts and components. From LCDs to speaker modules, processors to camera units, you’ll find everything needed for repairs, refurbishing, or OEM builds.
✓ Bulk Accessory Suppliers
If you’re committed to importing accessories (e.g., phone cases, headsets, chargers, or styluses), Shenzhen and Guangzhou are where you should go. Both of these cities offer an enormous selection, competitive prices, and volume availability for global resellers.
When you’re importing complete, international-version phones and require tax efficiency, English-compatible phones, and international software, choose Hong Kong.
Choose Mainland China if you’re buying components or accessories in volume, especially from specialist bazaars like Shenzhen.
Shenzhen: Global Mobile Phone Parts and Accessories Marketplace
While the world has an enormous demand for mobile phones, it has equally an enormous demand for their parts, including screens, batteries, speaker modules, and more. The world’s largest and most influential marketplace for acquiring such parts is in Shenzhen.
Renowned as China’s electronics capital, Shenzhen is home to countless third-party suppliers offering a vast range of mobile phone parts and accessories.
Whether you’re sourcing for repair centres, after-sales service, or warranty replacements, this city offers bulk availability and competitive pricing.
Apart from components, Shenzhen has also become the global leader in manufacturing mobile phone accessories, thus becoming truly a one-stop centre for all things smartphone-related — from end-to-end devices to the smallest of parts.
Major Wholesale Markets for Mobile Phones & Accessories in Southern China
| Market Name | Location | Main Products | Key Features | Address (EN & CN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Huaqiangbei Commercial District | Futian District, Shenzhen | Wholesale phones, used phones, spare parts, tablets | China’s largest electronics hub; home to Yuanwang Digital Mall (2F–3F) and Feiyang Market (1F: parts, 3F–4F: devices) | 2006 Huaqiang North Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 广东省深圳市福田区华强北 |
| Shengxian Dashatou Second-hand Trade Market | Yuexiu District, Guangzhou | Second-hand phones (local & foreign brands) | Guangzhou’s largest second-hand phone hub; mixed quality, better visited in groups | 31 Luyin Road, Dashatou, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou 广东省广州市越秀区大沙头绿荫路31号 |
| Guangzhou President Digital City | Tianhe District, Guangzhou | Phones and digital accessories | 10,000 sqm retail space; 2F–3F focus on phones and gadgets; located in Tianhe’s tech shopping hub | 586 Tianhe Road, inside President Hotel, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 广东省广州市天河区天河路586号总统大酒店一至四层 |
| Xidi Electronics, Digital and Mobile Market | Liwan District, Guangzhou | Mobile phones, accessories, landlines | Busy trade zone; specialises in mobile accessories and decorations | No. 1–3 Dexing Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou 广东省广州市荔湾区德兴路1-3号 |
| Nan Fang Building International Electronics & Digital City | Liwan District, Guangzhou | Brand phones, internal & external mobile accessories | One of China’s largest markets for communication electronics; 1F: phones, 2F–3F: accessories | No. 28–32, Xidi Erma Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou 广州市西堤二马路28-32号一至四层，南方大厦国际电子城 |
So, what steps do you need to take when you want to import phones? Here are the significant steps as tips on how to get started.
Step 1: Know the Rules
| Rule | Description |
| Import/Export Regulations | These are specific rules governing the import and export of electronic devices like phones. |
| Customs Regulations | Know the procedures and documentation required for customs clearance. It includes tariffs, duties, and taxes. |
| Product Safety Standards | Identify the standards and certifications related to product safety. For example, electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility. Obtain CE marking when importing from China to European markets. Likewise, you will need FCC certification for the US. |
| Intellectual Property Rights | These are laws protecting intellectual property. It includes patents, trademarks, etc. |
| Labelling and Packaging | This factor covers the regulations on product labelling and packaging. You may also need to state the country of origin. |
| Import Licensing Requirements | Specific licenses or permits are needed for importing electronic devices. |
We recommend you work alongside a professional Global supply chain provider. This way, you get all the documents and information right. Master the China phone import regulations.
Step 2: Decide on the Brand
What brand of smartphone will you get? Alas, the phone market is so large that window shopping might be a fool’s errand. Hence, it is best to know what your potential customers want. You can undergo market research.
Browse through notable e-commerce platforms for an insight into what your people like. This way, you know the Best phones to import from China.
Step 3: Get Your Supplier
Finding China smartphone suppliers is essential. However, all the steps here are the most demanding. Of course, you can’t opt for the first supplier to promise affordable prices.
Moreover, you have to question their safety and quality to ensure you get the best deals. We will discuss notable suppliers later on. Regardless, you can leverage trade shows and big Chinese wholesale websites like Alibaba.
Step 4: Ensure the Quality
Negotiate and quality control! You want the best deals, so you have to negotiate. Bring factors like price, minimum order quantity, and others to the table. Haggle so you can have favourable offers.
Quality control in China is another measure to consider. Ask for samples and invest in third-party inspections for optimal results. Wholesale smartphones in China have to be of the best quality.
Step 5: Get a Freight Forwarder
Choose a good freight forwarder and China shipping service. The method you choose depends on your package, cost, and time.
If your package is fragile, it is recommended that you use air freight service from China. Sea shipping from China is an affordable option if you are willing to wait. Express is the fastest of the three for shipping phones from China.
Moreover, finding a freight forwarder is a big challenge for most businesses. For example, a client once contacted us about her inability to find a freight forwarder. She wanted to transport her smartphones from China to the UK.
When she reached out, our team helped her throughout the sourcing process. We used our extensive network of vetted freight forwarders to give her the best option. Our team also handled all the paperwork, customs clearance, and tracking. So, she could focus on her core business.
Step 6: Complete the Customs
Customs clearance is the next step. For a first-timer, you need to be cautious. We recommend you visit the customs website of the countries involved to learn more. The website often includes information on banned products and more.
There are several steps to take to get your products out of customs. Know the customs for importing phones and follow them.
What are the Top Chinese Phone Brands?
If you want to enter the Chinese phone wholesale market, familiarise yourself with the brands. You might have heard some of the above names before. The big Chinese and Hong Kong brands include names like Huawei and Vivo.
| Brand | Description |
| Huawei | This brand is in the top 10 in over 40 countries. Huawei has this reputation due to its exceptional performance and design. The brand keeps releasing new products to match the growing needs of the public. |
| Xiaomi | This smartphone brand has been on a positive trajectory. It is one of the successful brands that has seen over 100% increase in the number of exports in many countries. |
| Vivo | Vivo has a growing fan base. While it is not as widespread as many of these, it is a quality product. The brand’s high-end image is thanks to its features and innovative design. |
| Oppo | This smartphone brand has been functional for over two decades. Its primary market is in Asia, including countries like Indonesia and India. However, the brand is expanding to other continents at an alarming rate. |
How to Find Reliable China Phone Suppliers?
Let’s expand on how to find a manufacturer in China. Here, we go over all the cautionary tips to ensure you end up in the right pair. Finding a suitable phone supplier is heavy work. Here is how to ensure you don’t make a mismatch:
1) Check for reviews and ratings. Listening to other buyers is the fastest way to determine a supplier’s reliability.
2) Consider the supplier’s length of operation. Established companies tend to be more trustworthy than newer platforms.
3) Ask for recommendations. We are always open to direct questions. Many businesses have contacted us about the best suppliers in several industries. Alternatively, you can ask freight forwarders what they think. Many know great suppliers as they work with them.
4) Communicate! We can sense when something is off during the sourcing process. You can communicate your ideals. See how the company responds, and be on the lookout for any discrepancies.
5) Check for certification. Certified suppliers are more trustworthy. Also, see if they have any third-party stamps of approval.
How do you get iPhones and Samsung from Chinese distributors?
Aside from the Chinese phones, your potential customers might want more popular brands. So, how do you get these products from the Chinese market? Here are notable e-commerce platforms you can visit:
These platforms offer a seamless way to get affordable prices. You can visit any of the platforms via a quick Google search. However, a significant concern with sourcing phones through this route is cloned devices.
Some customers often buy cloned smartphones to escape the overly expensive prices. However, it can be disappointing to get cloned products. Here is a table that highlights how to avoid cloned products as a business:
| Solution | Description |
| Avoid unrealistic prices | Cloned products are often sold dirty and cheaply. That’s the appeal—cheaper but similar. Hence, when you see a product going for about 30 to 50% of its actual price, tread with caution. |
| Learn the specs | “iPhone 12 with Android 12, 10,000 mAh battery, and 7-inch display” should be ignored. We often advise businesses to familiarise themselves with the specs of the smartphone they want to get. |
| Read through the Description | Most cloned products don’t hide that they are clones. Hence, all it might take is being a little more attentive to the descriptions. |
However, cloned phones shouldn’t be mistaken for refurbished phones. Refurbished phones are actual phones that have been fixed and are being resold.
On the other hand, cloned phones are entirely different devices. This distinction is crucial to know for a safe mobile phone import from China.
How to Source Wholesale Refurbished Mobile Phones from China
If you want to purchase wholesale refurbished mobile phones from China, the biggest markets are located in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, which are big hubs for the mobile phone business.
You can start by browsing credible B2B sites such as Alibaba, DHgate, and Made-in-China, where you’ll find a host of suppliers offering used and refurbished models, particularly iPhones. Make sure that you contact a number of sellers, verify their credentials, and compare price and quality before making a bulk purchase.
As a simpler and more reliable option, attempt to contact well-known wholesale companies dealing in refurbished mobile phones. Some of them include:
- Wakephone – An experienced wholesaler with years in business offering refurbished and used smartphones, particularly iPhones.
- Ueephone – Hong Kong Ueephone offers wholesale refurbished and used iPhones with export-ready inventory.
By working with trusted wholesale companies and conducting proper due diligence, you’ll improve your chances of finding a dependable supplier that meets your quality and pricing expectations.
FAQ:
1. What Documents Are Needed?
When exporting mobile phones from China, you will typically need the following six simple documents:
- Import Declaration Form: Filed with customs for declaration of the nature and quantity of the goods.
- Certificate of Conformity: Verifies that the products meet the safety and technical standards of the importing country.
- Packing List: Details the contents, measurements, and packaging of each shipment.
- Commercial Invoice: Specifies buyer, seller, and transaction value for customs clearance.
- Bill of Lading (or Air Waybill): Carrier receipt for shipment, recording dispatch and ownership.
- Country-Specific Certifications: These vary based on your target market and may include CE (Europe), FCC (USA), or other telecom approvals.
2. Are Mobile Phones Less Expensive in China?
Yes, mobile phones are less expensive in China. The reason is that China has a robust manufacturing base, economies of scale, and advanced supply chain capabilities.
Read More:
- Top Guangzhou Electronics Wholesale Market Guide
- How to Verify a Chinese Supplier’s Legitimacy?
- How To Buy Wholesale From China?
- How to Negotiate with Chinese Suppliers?
Final Thoughts!
Importing smartphones from China and Hong Kong can be arduous. However, an importer who knows all the steps is better equipped to face the issue.
Remember, importation can end as a messy job without the right hands on deck. Our team knows how difficult it can be to handle. So you don’t have to worry about any issues; get help from OwlSourcing. Contact us today, and let’s take over all the steps.
