Buying/profit decision hub
China sourcing calculators and decision tools for small sellers
Do not chase cheap unit prices. Calculate landed cost, waiting time, risk, platform fees, and resale margin before buying inventory.
Start here
Core tool
China Sourcing Profit Calculator
Estimate landed cost, order break-even quantity, cash tied up, and a practical source/buy-local verdict.
I want to sell
Marketplace Launch Planner
Summarizes the existing Profitmates calculators into one pre-launch decision flow for Amazon, TikTok Shop, Temu, Shopee and AliExpress.
Pricing
Price by Target Margin
Reverse-calculate sale price after landed sourcing cost and marketplace fees.
Initial sourcing guides
Landed cost
How to Calculate Landed Cost from China
A practical formula for product cost, freight, duty reserve, payment fees, samples, inspection and defects.
Alibaba
Is Alibaba Worth It for Small Sellers?
When Alibaba beats local wholesale, when MOQ kills the deal, and which categories should wait.
Channel choice
1688 vs Alibaba for Small Business
Compare supplier access, agents, payment, language, MOQ, logistics, and realistic buyer fit.
Editorial rules for this experiment
- Prefer simple categories with visible price gaps: packaging, labels, craft supplies, desk tools, storage, small DIY tools and non-medical pet accessories.
- Avoid early recommendations for food, medicine, supplements, cosmetics, children safety products, medical devices, luxury/branded goods, high-power electrical products and large batteries.
- The verdict is the product. Affiliate links and sourcing leads come after the decision, not before it.