FAQ — Collebra Essentials | China Sourcing Questions Answered

Question 1

Do you inspect every order before it ships?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every order goes through a pre-shipment inspection before it leaves the factory. We check product dimensions, materials, workmanship, packaging, and labelling against your approved sample and specifications.

Question 2

What does your quality inspection report include?

Accepted Answer

Our inspection report includes photos and videos of the goods, a checklist against your specifications, defect classification (critical, major, minor), carton and packaging checks, and a pass/fail summary. You receive the full report before we authorise shipment.

Question 3

What happens if the goods fail inspection?

Accepted Answer

If goods fail inspection we immediately notify you with the full report and photos. We then work with the supplier to rework or replace the defective units before re-inspecting. You decide whether to proceed, rework, or cancel — we never ship without your approval.

Question 4

Can I request a factory audit before placing an order?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer factory audits as part of our supplier verification service. We assess production capacity, quality management systems, certifications, and working conditions, and provide you with a detailed audit report.

Question 5

How does Collebra charge for its services?

Accepted Answer

We charge a service fee based on the scope of your project — sourcing, inspection, logistics, or a full end-to-end package. We provide a clear fee breakdown before any work begins so there are no surprises.

Question 6

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No. We believe in full transparency. All fees — including our service charge, any third-party inspection costs, and logistics fees — are itemised in your quote. You will never receive an unexpected invoice.

Question 7

Can you help me get a better price from suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Price negotiation is a core part of what we do. Our relationships with verified suppliers and our knowledge of Chinese manufacturing costs mean we regularly secure prices 10–30% lower than clients could negotiate on their own.

Question 8

Is there a minimum order value?

Accepted Answer

There is no strict minimum, but most Chinese factories have their own MOQ (minimum order quantity) requirements. We'll advise you on realistic MOQs for your product category and help you negotiate lower quantities where possible, especially for first orders.

Question 9

What shipping methods do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer sea freight (FCL and LCL), air freight, express courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS), and Amazon FBA prep and direct-to-warehouse shipping. We recommend the best option based on your timeline, budget, and cargo volume.

Question 10

How long does shipping take?

Accepted Answer

Sea freight to the US or Europe typically takes 25–40 days from China. Air freight takes 5–10 days. Express courier takes 3–7 days. Production lead times (usually 15–45 days) are separate and depend on the product and factory.

Question 11

Do you handle customs clearance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We coordinate with licensed customs brokers in your destination country to handle import documentation, duties, and clearance. We'll advise you on applicable tariffs and help you prepare the correct paperwork to avoid delays.

Question 12

Can you ship directly to Amazon FBA warehouses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer a full Amazon FBA prep service — labelling, poly-bagging, bundling, carton marking, and direct shipment to Amazon fulfilment centres. We follow Amazon's prep requirements precisely to avoid rejection at the warehouse.

Question 13

Can you help me create a private label product?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with OEM and ODM factories across China to develop private label products. We can help with product design, packaging design, logo application, and custom specifications — from concept through to finished goods.

Question 14

What is the difference between OEM and ODM?

Accepted Answer

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) means the factory produces a product to your exact design and specifications. ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) means you choose from the factory's existing designs and customise them with your branding. ODM is faster and cheaper; OEM gives you full control over the product.

Question 15

How do I protect my product design or brand?

Accepted Answer

We recommend signing an NDA and a non-compete agreement with your supplier before sharing designs. We can also help you register a trademark in China and advise on IP protection strategies. We vet suppliers for their track record on confidentiality.

Question 16

Can I request product samples before committing to a full order?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and we strongly recommend it. We arrange pre-production samples from shortlisted suppliers so you can evaluate quality, materials, and finish before placing a bulk order. Sample costs are typically refunded against your first production order.

Question 17

How do payments to suppliers work?

Accepted Answer

Most Chinese factories require a 30% deposit before production and the remaining 70% before shipment. We manage all supplier payments on your behalf and only release funds at agreed milestones — after production confirmation and after a passed inspection.

Question 18

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept bank wire transfer (T/T), PayPal, and other methods depending on your location. All payments are made to Collebra Essentials LLC, a US-registered company — you never need to wire money directly to an unknown Chinese supplier.

Question 19

What if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?

Accepted Answer

Because we inspect every order before shipment, significant issues are caught before goods leave China. In the rare event that damage occurs in transit or an error slips through, we work with the supplier and freight insurer to resolve the issue and arrange replacement or compensation.

Question 20

Can I cancel an order after production has started?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations after production has begun are subject to the supplier's terms and may result in partial or full loss of the deposit. We always clarify cancellation terms with suppliers before you commit, and we advise on the risks before you place any order.

Question 21

How do I get started with Collebra?

Accepted Answer

Simply fill in our quote request form or send us a WhatsApp message. Tell us what product you're looking for, your target quantity, and any specifications. We'll respond within 24 hours with an initial assessment and next steps.

Question 22

How do you communicate with me during the sourcing process?

Accepted Answer

We provide regular updates at every stage — supplier shortlist, sample approval, production milestones, inspection results, and shipment tracking. You can reach us by email, WhatsApp, or phone. We're available across US and Pakistan time zones.

Question 23

Do I need to speak Chinese to work with you?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. That's exactly why we exist. Our team handles all communication with Chinese suppliers in Mandarin and local dialects. You deal only with us in English, and we translate everything — specifications, contracts, inspection reports, and negotiations.

Question 24

How long have you been sourcing from China?

Accepted Answer

Collebra Essentials was founded by Muhammad Hamza Hassan, who has years of hands-on experience in China sourcing, supplier management, and international trade. We've helped clients across the US, UK, and beyond source products across 8+ categories.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Quality Inspection

Pricing & Fees

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Private Label & Custom Products

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