How to Import Shoes From China

Do you want to import shoes from China? If so, you’re operating in one of the world’s biggest and most diverse footwear markets. China, in general, remains one of the best destinations to get affordable superior quality shoes whether you are a new firm or an established one.
However, do the steps that need to be taken to import shoes from China escape you? Do you know what difficulties may arise and how to avoid them? That article is covered, so let us continue this thorough guide on where and how you can source your product, as well as delivery.

What Types of Shoes Can Be Imported from China?

Regarding shoes, there is something you might want to order from China and it will be anything you can imagine, literally. There appear to be products for every market niche since Chinese manufacturers provide so many styles and designs for every usage. Here are some popular types of shoes you can source from China:

1. Sports Shoes

China’s factories have always been at the forefront of manufacturing athletic shoes that promote comfort, sustainability, and style. Popular options include:

• Running Shoes: Lightweight and designed to function at top speed.
• Cross-Trainers: Perfect for a number of games and exercises in fitness.
• Specialized Footwear: For example tennis shoes, football boots, or basketball sneakers.

2. Casual and Everyday Shoes

Chinese manufacturers provide an enlarged offer of casual footwear starting from sneakers, through loafers and sandals, to slip-ons.

3. Fashion Shoes

Breathtaking styles that will mesmerize you give you Chinese fashion footwear at your fingertips. Choose from:

• Trendy Heels: Perfect for formal occasions.
• Stylish Flats: Merging the ideas of comfort with those of sophistication.
• Chic Boots: Specifically to be worn in the winter season or when going out.

Chinese manufacturers follow the fashion weeks of the world in order to provide apparel that can suit the sensibilities of fashionable customers.

4. Eco-Friendly Footwear

With the rising demand for sustainable products, Chinese factories now produce:

• Using Recycled materials in the production of shoes such as PET bottles.
• Definitely recyclable vegan leather for constructing the upper part of the shoes and biodegradable soles.

To determine that the suppliers are environmentally friendly you could check for accreditations such as the Global Recycled Standard (GRS).

5. Seasonal Footwear

Prepare for all seasons with footwear tailored to different weather conditions:

• Winter Boots: Waterproof and insulated clothing mainly for regions where the climate is considerably cold.
• Summer Sandals: Plain weave, and lighter in weight for warmer months.

6. Specialty Shoes

Catering to niche markets, China excels in manufacturing:

• Orthopedic Shoes: Made to be comfortable and for use in medical facilities.
• Safety Boots: Available with steel tips for the protection of toes or slip-resistant bottoms for the workplace.

Most of the suppliers meet the international safety standard such as the ASTM or the EN ISO 20345.

7. Children’s Shoes

China is a global leader in producing high-quality children’s footwear that prioritizes:

• Safety: Safe for use, eco-friendly, and easy for children to handle.
• Durability: Built to withstand active use.
• Style: Some links and themes were bright in color and much more suitable for children.

If you are interested in learning more, read our article on how to import children’s products from China.

8. Custom-Designed Footwear

Do you have a design or brand concept all of its own? Chinese manufacturers offer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) services for:

• Custom logos and designs.
• More personalized packaging and labeling devices.
• Apparel sizes and functions for special consumers.

How to Find Shoe Suppliers in China?

The process of importing shoes requires searching for loyal and good shoe suppliers in the Chinese market. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify trustworthy manufacturers and streamline the process:

1. Research Online Platforms

Online marketplaces are the easiest avenues through which one can begin the search for Chinese Shoe Suppliers. Popular platforms include:

• Alibaba: A very popular site it is in fact one of the largest directories where you can source manufacturers with options for verified suppliers and customer feedback.
• Global Sources: Works mostly with wholesale and bulk orders with great attention paid to the certified exporters.
• Made-in-China: A site focused on suppliers who are manufacturers and exporters.

Tip: When searching always use filters such as “Gold Supplier” or “Verified Supplier”.

2. Attend Trade Shows

Compared to buying from a local factory, trade shows allow you to meet with manufacturers value their products accurately, and bargain for better prices. Key trade shows include:

• Canton Fair (Guangzhou): One of the biggest trade fairs in China that is specialized in footwear.

Date: May 30 – June 1, 2024

Venue: Guangzhou, Poly World Trade Center Expo

• China International Footwear Expo (Shanghai): Has a special emphasis on trendy and quality shoes.
• China Leather Fair 2024 (Wenzhou):

Date: August 23 – 25, 2024

Venue: Wenzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center

Website: https://www.chinaleatherfair.com/ 

Tip: Online conferences are also held remotely and online to view suppliers for virtual trade shows.

3. Work with a Sourcing Agent like OwlSourcing

Using the sourcing agent can be easy, especially for somebody who has no idea of the Chinese business culture.

Those tasks include supplier selection, factory tour, and negotiation.

OwlSourcing is a China sourcing agent. We can provide you with one-stop solutions from supply chain optimization to shipping.

Increase your company productivity with OwlSourcing as its trustable partner. Whether you need to expand into new markets or refine your present approach, OwlSourcing is the sourcing agent and global supply chain provider that brings unparalleled expertise and results.

Best Chinese Market for Wholesale Shoes

Currently, China has several well-known shoe wholesale markets, all of which provide a good variety for business purposes. Here are some of the top markets:

local wholesale market

• Wenzhou Shoe Market (Wenzhou, Zhejiang):

Wenzhou is known as the “shoe capital” of China.

There are many markets and factories dedicated to footwear manufacturing and wholesale.

• Yiwu Wholesale Market (Yiwu, Zhejiang):

Yiwu Market is one of the largest small commodities markets in the world, and it has a dedicated section for footwear.

You can find a vast variety of shoes and footwear accessories at competitive prices.

• Jinjiang Footwear Market (Jinjiang, Fujian):

Jinjiang is another hub for shoe manufacturing in China.

The city has a large footwear market where you can find a variety of shoe suppliers.

• Guangzhou Wholesale Market (Guangzhou, Guangdong):

Guangzhou is known for its leather and footwear market.

The Guangzhou Baima clothing wholesale Market, Huimei International Clothing Market, and Zhan Xi Clothing Wholesale Market are some of the places where you can find shoe suppliers.

• Shanghai Wholesale Markets (Shanghai):

In Shanghai, the Qipu Road Clothing Wholesale Market and Zhan Lan Road Clothing Wholesale Market are popular places to find footwear suppliers.

How Much Tax Will I Pay If I Import Shoes?

1. Import Duty (Customs Duty): It is a taxation policy that is charged on products imported into the United States and it possesses some variation depending on the leading HTS code.

Every type of footwear has its own shoes HTS code that determines the duty rate of the shoes. For example, men’s golf shoes come under the HTS code 6402.19.05.30 and attract a duty rate of 6%.

2. Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): The MPF is collected by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the United States, for the majority of imported products.

For Formal Entries (goods valued over $2,500): It is equal to 0.3464 percent recoverable from the declared value of the goods which must not exceed $528.33 per entry, though the minimum is $27.23.

For Informal Entries (goods valued under $2,500): The fee is between $2.00 and $9.00 for each shipment.

3. Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): The application of the HMF is where the shipment is by ocean freight.

Rate: 0.125% of the cargo’s value. This fee does not apply to air freight shipments.

Calculating Total Import Costs:

Import Duty = (Goods Valued) × (Duty Rate) 

MPF:

Goods valued over $2,500: (Goods Valued) × 0.3464%

Goods valued under $2,500: From $2.00 to $9.00

HMF: (Goods Valued) × 0.125% = $35

Total Import Costs = (Import Duty) + (MPF) + (HMF)

Note: If your goods are subject to extra tariffs, calculate these based on the customs value and add them to the total.

For Example:

For instance, imagine you are importing men’s golf shoes worth $28,000 consigned under HTS code 6402.19.05.30 and included in the shipment were levied a 6% duty.

Import Duty: $28,000 × 6% = $1,680

MPF: The minimum fee is $75 so the fee will be $ 28, 000 × 0, 3464% = $ 96.99

HMF: $28,000 × 0.125% = $35

Total Import Costs: $1,680 (duty) + $96.99 (MPF) + $35 (HMF) = $1811.99

Please note that these calculations are estimates. Actual fees may vary based on specific circumstances.

What Should I Pay Attention to When Importing Shoes?

Buying shoes from China is a good business opportunity but it needs a strategy for it to turn out successfully. Here are the key aspects to focus on:

1. Product Quality

Quality control in China should not be overlooked. Even as organizations assume the right prices will lead to customer attraction, the quality of the product is key to reception. This means that if you are selling substandard products to your consumers, you will be overwhelmed with complaints and generally negative feedback from the market you serve.

• Inspect Samples from China: Contact companies to ask for small samples to assess the various fabric materials as well as the style and sturdiness of the products.
• Compliance with Standards: Ensure that the shoes are safe for use for the children and are environmentally friendly by checking the safety of the children’s shoes based on the laws of the country where the shoes will be used (CPSIA compliance for children’s footwear in the USA)

Also Read: Importing Children’s Products from China

2. Supplier Reliability

It means that choosing a competent supplier can prevent such risks as delays and receiving low-quality products.

• Background Checks: Check the authenticity of the supplier through sources like Alibaba, or Google Search.
• Factory Visits: Use on-site audits or employ the services of a China sourcing agent to verify the manufacturing capacity.
• Communication: How receptive they are and how eager they are to resolve problems. A reliable supplier is going to be clear and timely.

3. Documentation Required for Importation of Shoes

Key documents include:

• Commercial Invoice: Gives details about the consignment and its value.
• Packing List: Registers all the goods supplied in name with their quantities.
• Certificate of Origin: They ensure that it provides information about the country of origin of the goods.
• Compliance Certificates: In concerns with safety and environmental requirements, especially with regards to children’s shoes.
• Import License: If required by your country.

4. Shipping

Organized shipping means that your goods arrive when expected and in the right condition.

• Packaging: Always post shoes in packages so that they are not damaged during delivery. To reduce cost, it is recommended to use lightweight but strong materials when constructing the base.
• Incoterms: Learn abbreviations like FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) in order to know the shipping obligations.

You can check another article about Basic Trade Terms

5. Payment Security

This is important because the right payment methods ensure that you are not a victim of a scam.

• Escrow Services: For the payments Alibaba has a Trade Assurance service, on similar lines, ensure that you have a similar service to protect yourself.
• Letter of Credit: It makes sure that the agreed conditions are met before the supplier is paid his or her dues.
• Partial Payments: Get a 30% down payment and 70% on delivery or production of the product or shipment of the product. Most payment methods are in this way.

Of course, you can read this article about What is the Best Way to Pay Chinese Suppliers.

Note: Do I need an import license to buy goods from China?

No. 

In most cases, the USA does not demand particular import licenses for shoes. But, some shoes can be regulated or require certification, for example, if they were made from the skin of protected species, or have certain protective properties.

In the case of footwear made from animal products, consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, depending on the kind of products used.

Why Import Shoes from China?

While there is ample evidential data to support the continued advantage in importing shoes from China in 2024 among other reasons.

• Cost Efficiency

China continues to retain its status as the manufacturer of cheap quality goods which is a common feature in the marketplace. Players dealing with shoes imported directly from China enjoy the fact that most of them are cheap to produce compared to industries in other areas.
For instance, while the cost of manufacturing a pair of sneakers in China is relatively cheaper than the one produced in other countries, it can be as low as 30-40%. This means that there is an increased ability to earn greater profit margins for companies while at the same time avoiding compromise of quality.

• Wide Variety of Styles

It would be easy to find more diversified kinds of footwear produced in China. The Chinese manufacturers supply needs of various types.
Currently, there are over 20,000 shoe factories in China, hence it is not difficult for any business to source for suppliers that share similar brand requirements with their target customers.

• High Production Capacity

Chinese manufacturers are properly armed with advanced technology and a skilled workforce to assemble a large number of these products instantly. For example:
Guangzhou and Wenzhou factories have been found to have the capacity to produce up to 50000 pairs of shoes in a month, without compromising quality.
This acts as a safety net that guarantees a reliable chain of delivery, especially when sales are at their peak.

• Logistical Advantages

China’s strong supply chain makes importing goods easy and secure; thus, shoes can also be imported easily into the country.

According to Statista, we can see that most of the men’s footwear market in the United States is leaning toward China

Some Common Questions When Importing Shoes from China

1. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for importing shoes from China?

MOQs vary depending on the manufacturer but typically range from 500 to 1,000 pairs per style. Some suppliers may negotiate lower MOQs for smaller businesses or during off-peak seasons.

2. How long does it take to import shoes from China?

The timeline depends on factors like production time and shipping method:

Production: 30–60 days on average.

Air freight: 7–14 days.

Sea freight: 30–45 days.

3. Are Chinese shoe manufacturers open to small orders?

Many manufacturers prefer large orders due to cost efficiency, but smaller factories or trading companies may accept small orders.

4. What materials are commonly used in shoes made in China?

Common materials include:

Leather: Genuine or synthetic.

Fabric: Cotton, canvas, or mesh.

Rubber: For soles.

EVA or PU: Lightweight and durable materials for insoles.

5. What are the import taxes and duties for shoes?

For the U.S., duties can range from 8% to 37.5% depending on shoe type.

Check your country’s HS code for shoes to calculate the exact fees.

6. Can I import branded shoes from China legally?

Importing branded shoes without authorization is illegal due to intellectual property rights. Stick to OEM/ODM manufacturers who offer unbranded or custom-made designs.

7. How do I find trustworthy sourcing agents for importing shoes?

You can contact us. OwlSourcing is a professional sourcing team with the expertise to help you work with reliable suppliers and ensure a seamless process.

8. How can I protect my designs when importing customized shoes?

Sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the manufacturer.

9. Are there eco-friendly shoe manufacturers in China?

Yes, some manufacturers specialize in sustainable footwear. Search for suppliers advertising recycled materials or compliance with environmental standards.

Read More:

• How to Import Battery from China
• Sourcing High-Quality Footwear from Yiwu Shoes Market
• China Sourcing Agent Fees
• How To Import Bags From China: A Detailed Guide
• How to Source Products From China

Final Thoughts

Therefore, the idea of importing shoes from China is ideal. Contrary to potential problems, when they are known beforehand and the sourcing strategy is clear, potential problems can be minimized. With great sourcing agents like OwlSourcing, you can contact us with any questions you may have at any one time.

Good luck to your sourcing business and hoping for a perfect experience throughout!