A fulfillment warehouse in China acts as the seller's local hands: receiving goods from the supplier, checking for defects, packing according to marketplace standards, applying barcodes, and delivering to a WB warehouse or Ozon drop-off point. For a seller working remotely, this is an essential link in the supply chain.
What fulfillment services do
- receiving goods from suppliers with quantity and quality checks
- defect screening: defective items are returned to the supplier before shipment, rather than reaching the customer
- packaging according to marketplace requirements
- printing and applying barcodes — labeling in China saves 1–2 days during the intake process
- preparing shipments and delivering them to the marketplace warehouse
- on request: inserts, gifts, product photography
Where they are located
The main hubs are Guangzhou and Yiwu; there are also warehouses in Shenzhen, Hangzhou, and Qingdao. The choice is simple: the fulfillment center should be near your suppliers, not the marketplace warehouse — domestic shipping in China is inexpensive and takes 1–3 days to reach any part of the country.
How much it costs
Pricing is a fixed amount per unit, depending on volume. For standard goods, this is a few yuan per item; the service pays for itself with the very first batch of defects prevented.
Place in the supply chain
- 1688 supplier sends goods to the fulfillment center (1–3 days)
- fulfillment center prepares the batch according to marketplace requirements
- delivery to a WB warehouse (cities) or an Ozon drop-off point (addresses)
- onward cross-border delivery is handled by the marketplace
Frequently asked questions
How to choose a fulfillment partner?
Three questions: do they work with WB/Ozon schemes (do they know the requirements), what is the price per unit for the full cycle, and do they provide photo documentation of the packaging? The latter is insurance in disputes: how disputes are won.
What will the fulfillment center not do for the seller?
They will not select products, set prices, or respond to customers. Physical operations are theirs; decisions and product listings are yours.
How long does it take to process a batch?
Typically 1–2 days from receipt to delivery to the marketplace, provided labels are ready. During peak seasons, allow for extra time: queues at warehouses grow for everyone simultaneously.
What specific tasks does a fulfillment center in China handle for my marketplace business?
A fulfillment center receives goods from your suppliers, performs quality and defect checks, handles packaging according to marketplace standards, and applies barcodes. They also prepare your shipments and deliver them to a WB warehouse or Ozon drop-off point.
How should I decide which city to choose for my fulfillment warehouse?
You should choose a fulfillment center located near your suppliers rather than near the marketplace warehouse. Domestic shipping within China is inexpensive and takes only 1–3 days to reach any part of the country.
What are the key questions to ask when selecting a fulfillment partner?
You should ask if they are familiar with WB and Ozon requirements, what the price per unit is for the full cycle, and if they provide photo documentation of the packaging. Photo documentation serves as essential insurance in the event of disputes.
Are there any business activities that a fulfillment center will not perform for me?
Fulfillment centers do not select products, set prices, or respond to customer inquiries. Their role is limited to physical operations, while all strategic decisions and product listings remain your responsibility.