1688 and Alibaba are prominent e-commerce brands that have shocked the industry. However, while both platforms have gained a widespread reputation, they offer different services. It is crucial to grasp how these Chinese wholesale websites compare to know how to approach them.
Well, this article provides an extensive comparison between both platforms. Comparing 1688 and Alibaba helps you know which will serve your business better. Stick around!
Alibaba vs. 1688 – A Quick Comparison!
| Feature | Alibaba | 1688 |
| Target Audience | International buyers | Domestic Chinese buyers |
| Language | English interface | Chinese interface |
| Product Pricing | Higher due to middlemen’s markup | Lower prices (direct from manufacturers) |
| Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) | Strict MOQ requirements | Flexible MOQ, suitable for smaller orders |
| Payment Methods | Multiple options | Primarily Alipay only |
| Product Authenticity | Strict verification process for suppliers | Government certification required for sellers |
| Annual Seller Fees | Standard: $239/month
Basic: $166/month |
6688 RMB (approximately $1,085) |
| Platform Focus | B2B (Business to Business) | Both B2B and B2C (Business to Consumer) |
| Product Range | Wide variety of international products | Domestic Chinese products, some rare items |
| International Access | Easily accessible | Requires intermediary/sourcing agent |
Key Differences Between 1688 and Alibaba
1688 and Alibaba are from the same source, but the similarities end here. To know which platform better suits your brand, let’s take a closer look. That aside, more differences set both platforms apart:
1) Target Audience
Both platforms cater to two different audiences. Alibaba serves a global audience, while 1688 launched to serve the Chinese audience. Hence, Alibaba suits international business, and 1688 is more oriented toward local companies.
2) Product Authenticity
Product authenticity is a critical issue in online e-commerce. You must know how to safely source on Alibaba. It has a scrupulous program to ensure that its suppliers offer authentic products. Various verification processes are put in place to ensure credibility. While this doesn’t mean exempting all issues, it is safe for international traders.
1688, on the other hand, has a decent reputation for quality online products. I know many locals who would choose 1688 for all their purchases in a heartbeat. The Chinese government requires all 1688 suppliers to get certified before selling. Regardless, Alibaba has a much better system regarding more authentic products.
3) Minimum Order Quantity
Every business owner knows that minimum order quantity is crucial. It is one of the many factors I recommend businesses should consider when choosing a platform. Alibaba is a brand for companies with enormous needs.
Most suppliers on the platform have a minimum order quantity. MOQ stands for the least number of products you can buy.
Hence, I don’t recommend Alibaba to small businesses. If you still insist, check my post where I have shared tips to find low MOQ Alibaba suppliers.
1688 has a more flexible minimum order quantity range. Few suppliers have an MOQ. Hence, 1688 appears to be a suitable option for locals who want to get a couple of picks to resell. It is more approachable when it comes to minimum order quantity.
4) Payment Methods
Money needs a medium to flow from your end to the supplier’s. It concerns many foreign e-commerce brands like Alibaba and 1688. However, remember I said Alibaba was launched to cater to international businesses?
Hence, the platform has payment methods such as Alipay and other international-friendly options. You also get security through Alibaba Trade Assurance.
Nonetheless, 1688 solely relies on Alipay for transactions. So, the payment might prove difficult for traders without an Alipay account.
1688: Best for Domestic Chinese Buyers
1688 is a Chinese B2B platform by Alibaba. The company was founded in 1999, formerly the Alibaba China Market. The new name “1688” is based on a phonetic translation in Mandarin, “Yao Lin Ba Ba.”
When the phonetic translation is pronounced, it sounds like Alibaba. It is known as 1688, the largest e-commerce platform for domestic Chinese products.
1688 local sourcing primarily caters to B2B and B2C audiences. There are over 120 million users and 50,000 companies at 1688. Companies have to get a license from the government.
Pros:
- Lower Prices: 1688 connects domestic suppliers directly to buyers. There are no middlemen markup prices at 1688. Hence, the prices are typically lower than those of most e-commerce platforms.
- Rarer Products: 1688.com offers rare products that give buyers a better bang for their buck. These unique products are from domestic sellers. Many of the items listed on Alibaba are from 1688.
- Reliable Suppliers: Not every supplier can join 1688 for wholesale. The platform sieves out dubious sellers by demanding they get government-certified. Moreover, the sellers on the platform have to pay yearly dues. Overall, the platform makes extra effort to ensure all the sellers are credible. Compared to Alibaba, 1688 Chinese suppliers are more plausible.
- Flexible MOQ: 1688 is a B2B and B2C platform; hence, it offers varying MOQs. The site doesn’t limit the buyers that can approach its services with stifling MOQs as Alibaba does.
Alibaba: Best for International Buyers
Alibaba is one of the best international brands for buyers and sellers to meet. As a sourcing agent, I have not found a platform that tops Alibaba. Of course, you can find sites like Alibaba to source products. Yet, Alibaba’s superiority is undoubtedly due to its massive audience and product variety.
The platform is home to millions of users. Moreover, Alibaba has measures in place to ensure maximum security. However, you should take note of recent Alibaba scams as well.
Undoubtedly, Alibaba has several features that make it a top global e-commerce brand. Several perks exist, from payment methods to product diversity. Let’s take a look at the perks that come with Alibaba for international buyers:
Pros:
- Product Diversity: One of Alibaba’s perks is product diversity. Many users visit the platform to browse and find different item versions. You can easily update your catalog with different products. Alibaba’s global marketplace is an excellent go-to for new and unique products.
- Several Supported Payment Options: Alibaba has many payment methods. You can find options, from PayPal and wire transfer to debit or credit card. The platform opens its hands wide by ensuring buyers can pay with preferred options.
- Security Measures: Alibaba understands the risks of online trades. Hence, the platform has several security measures to ensure your safety. However, you must know the reality of Alibaba verified suppliers before buying.
- Seamless Interface: Alibaba is mobile-friendly. You can easily spot all the crucial features. Plus, unlike the 1688 platform, the site is in English.
Common Challenges When Buying from 1688 and Alibaba
Alibaba and 1688 are like most e-commerce platforms. Hence, there are some risks involved with buying products from them. Here are the challenges of buying from both platforms:
1) Language Barrier
Discussing with the suppliers can be a hassle for non-Chinese-speaking buyers. It can lead to delays and the wrong orders.
2) Quality control
Many buyers are concerned about product quality. Buyers have to verify China vendor and practice quality control steps. Undoubtedly, all these steps can be a hassle for first-timers.
3) MOQs
MOQ is a common pain point for most buyers. Navigating this issue at Alibaba and 1688 can be a problem. Moreover, it might shut off small businesses from both sites’ services.
4) Logistics and Shipping
Shipping and Logistics remain a big concern. This issue extends from domestic to international trade. It can constitute delay and custom problems. Hence, it is typically advised to factor in this clause. You can solve it by hiring a reliable China shipping agent.
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Final Thoughts!
Choosing between Alibaba and 1688 is a tricky task. Both options are excellent at what they do. Alibaba is great for international buyers, and 1688 suits domestic traders. However, approaching either platform can be a hassle for a first-timer.
Still, international trade can be challenging. Fortunately, OwlSourcing can offer the help you need. Reach out to us today to connect with trusted China suppliers on either platform. Our product sourcing service won’t break the bank; you are guaranteed the best sourcing experience.
FAQs:
1) What Product Categories Can You Find on Alibaba?
Alibaba is a global e-commerce platform that unites sellers from different countries. This broad reach means that there are tons of suppliers selling other products. Regardless, here are the popular product categories you will find at Alibaba:
Gadgets, electronics, child and pet care products, and more. Virtually anything that can be sold is available at Alibaba.
2) Which Is Cheaper, 1688 vs Alibaba?
Regarding Alibaba vs. 1688 pricing, 1688 is the easy choice. In 1688, the suppliers would connect directly to the manufacturers and companies.
Generally, there are no middlemen to mark up the price. This way, 1688 offers the lowest possible price for a product. Alternatively, Alibaba often has middlemen who get products from 1688 to resell. Hence, the prices are much higher at Alibaba. Also, Alibaba international shipping incurs high costs. But you can reduce shipping costs on Alibaba by following our tips.
3) How Much Is the Seller Fee at 1688?
1688 sellers often need to pay a sum to the Chinese government yearly. This fee amounts to roughly 6,888 RMB or $1,085 as of writing. However, remember that the payments are subject to change. The annual dues ensure that 1688 sellers remain trustworthy and committed to quality.
4) Can International Buyers Trade At 1688?
A common question everyone has in mind is, “Is 1688 open to global buyers?” Well, 1688 was created to be a local Alibaba. However, many international traders are interested because of its pricing and quality standards.
While it was arduous for international buyers to trade in 1688, it was possible. You can employ an agent or intermediary to handle the sourcing process. This intermediary has supported payment methods, making it easy for them to pay on 1688.
5) Is Alibaba Better Than 1688?
It is hard to compare the parent company with the company it created. That said, Alibaba is the better pick for international buyers. It supports multiple payment methods and product diversity. In contrast, 1688 is better for domestic trade. The platform is a gathering of local Chinese suppliers. If you are Chinese in the country, you might find better satisfaction in shopping here. 1688 vs. Alibaba supplier comparison is basically local versus international.
