Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions our customers ask about sourcing, quality control, EU compliance and liability when importing from China.
What exactly does WP International Trade GmbH do, are you a freight forwarder?
No. We are a registered importer in Germany and a sourcing partner in China. We find and vet manufacturers, secure quality before shipment and handle customs and EU compliance. We only coordinate the actual transport through certified logistics partners and do not carry or ship the goods ourselves.
Who is liable for the import, you or us?
With the Full Sourcing Import package we act as the merchant and purchase the goods in our own name. The responsibility as importer and economic operator for EU conformity, WEEE, packaging and battery regulations and CBAM therefore rests with us, not with you. You receive duty-paid, registered and market-ready goods on a German invoice.
What does working with you cost?
We work with clearly defined service packages. The sourcing packages run on a fixed fee, while the full import as a merchant is calculated per project. We discuss the specific terms in a no-obligation initial consultation.
How do you find suitable suppliers and how long does it take?
We combine more than 15 years of China experience with personal factory visits rather than pure online research. As a rule we deliver a shortlist of 3 to 5 pre-qualified manufacturers within 14 days, assessed by capacity, quality system and market relevance.
How do you ensure quality?
Our team in Guangzhou inspects directly at the manufacturer: incoming goods, in-line inspection during production and a pre-shipment inspection to AQL standard before dispatch. Defects are corrected in China, not only after arrival in Germany.
Do you handle the complete EU compliance including GPSR?
Yes. We review and coordinate CE, RoHS, REACH and the GPSR, mandatory since December 2024, as well as WEEE, packaging and battery regulations, CBAM and EUDAMED for medical devices. You receive the complete technical documentation and declarations of conformity.
Will my supplier or competitor find out who my end customer is?
No. The identity of your end customers remains fully protected. We act as the counterpart towards the manufacturer, and your customer names and margins are never disclosed.
We already have a supplier in China. Can you handle the quality control only?
Yes, the independent quality control is also available without an existing sourcing relationship. We inspect on site at your manufacturer, from the pre-shipment inspection to the container loading check, including photo documentation and an inspection report in German or English.
What happens in the event of defects or complaints?
Because we inspect before shipment, deviations are identified while the goods are still in the factory. Rework, replacement or renegotiation take place directly in China before anything is shipped. This reduces returns and avoids costly reverse handling after arrival.
Do we have to travel to China ourselves?
No. With our permanent office in Guangzhou we are on the ground, speak the language and know the culture. On request we are happy to accompany you on factory visits and initial meetings, in person or by video.
Can we use your team in Guangzhou like our own purchasing office?
Yes. With our China Office we provide you with a fixed monthly block of hours that works for you on the ground like an extended purchasing office. You avoid setting up a company, hiring your own staff and travel costs to China, while still keeping a dedicated contact who manages suppliers, coordinates appointments and communicates in German, English and Mandarin. Bookable in three package sizes, adjustable to your actual needs at any time.
How does the collaboration start?
