FAQ — Importer-focused answers for sourcing from Bangladesh
Answers to common questions about HS codes, samples, pricing, verification, payments, shipping, and disputes.
Getting Started
Q: How do I search for the exact product I need?
A: Use the search bar with product name or HS code. For precise results, enter the 6- or 8-digit HS code (e.g., 5208.12). Use the Direct Manufacturer filter to exclude trading companies.
Q: What documents do buyers need to provide?
A: Minimal info for initial contact (company name, email, country). For quotes or samples, suppliers often request a company profile, business registration, and a pro forma or purchase order.
Q: How long does supplier verification take?
A: Basic document checks take 48–72 hours. Factory inspections or customs-matching may take longer; verified status updates appear on the supplier profile.
Product, Pricing & Samples
Q: How are prices shown and how do quantity discounts work?
A: Prices are shown per unit with clear quantity breaks. Check the quantityBreaks table on product pages; prices are frequently FOB Chittagong unless specified otherwise.
Q: Can I request samples?
A: Yes. Use Request Sample on the product page or Chat with the supplier. Samples may be paid or free per supplier policy; shipping is usually at buyer cost.
Q: What is MOQ and can suppliers accept smaller pilot orders?
A: MOQ is set by suppliers. Some factories accept smaller pilot runs at a higher unit price — ask via Request Quote or Chat and confirm lead times.
Verification & Trust
Q: What do the verification badges mean?
A: Badges indicate checks we perform: Factory Verified, Customs Verified, Business License, Tax Verified, and Gold Member for top performers. Click a badge to see verification details.
Q: Are reviews verified?
A: Yes — only reviews linked to completed orders are shown as Verified Buyer reviews.
Payments & Terms
Q: What payment methods are accepted?
A: Typical methods: Letter of Credit (LC), Telegraphic Transfer (TT), Documents against Payment (DP), and deposit-based arrangements. Payment options are listed per supplier.
Q: Do you handle escrow or secure payments?
A: We integrate with secure payment partners for escrow options in selected markets. Contact payments@yourplatform.com for region-specific solutions.
Shipping, Incoterms & Logistics
Q: What shipping terms should I expect?
A: Common terms: FOB Chittagong, CIF, DDP. Suppliers list available terms on product pages. For sample shipments, suppliers typically use courier (DHL/FedEx).
Q: How do I estimate landed cost?
A: We plan to add an "Estimated Landed Cost" tool. For now, request a freight quote from suppliers or contact logistics partners at partners@yourplatform.com.
Disputes & Quality
Q: What if product quality doesn't match the sample?
A: Open a dispute via the Order page with photos, sample comparisons, and inspection reports. Our dispute team will mediate; verified suppliers have documented procedures for returns or reworks.
Q: Can you arrange third-party inspections?
A: Yes — we have partner inspection agencies and can coordinate pre-shipment inspections for a fee.
Account & Support
Q: How do I get expedited sourcing help?
A: Use Request Sourcing Help on the Contact page and include HS codes and quantity. Verified importers receive priority handling.
Q: How do I save searches and receive alerts?
A: Registered users can Save Search and subscribe to alerts for new listings or price changes in specific HS codes or categories.
For Suppliers
Q: How can suppliers get factory-verified?
A: Suppliers should contact suppliers@yourplatform.com to begin document upload and inspection scheduling.
Still not answered?
Use the Contact page to reach a category specialist, or Request Sourcing Help and include product/HS code and target port.