How do I choose a sourcing agent for machinery in China?

By I&R Group, Jiaxing. Reviewed October 2, 2026.

Choose an agent with its own office in China, technical capacity to read drawings and specifications, a factory acceptance test process with video, a fee agreed in writing, and a clear answer on whether it receives factory commissions. Agents that mostly source consumer goods are not the same as agents that handle machinery.

• Physical office in China and a team that can be at the factory within days.
• Technical review of specs, voltage, certifications and drawings before ordering.
• Factory acceptance test with video before the balance payment.
• Fee in writing and the factory's own quote visible to you.
• References from buyers of machines similar to yours.