How to Buy on Boonbuy: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
How to order from Taobao, Weidian or 1688 through Boonbuy: sign-up, ordering, warehouse QC photos and international shipping. A complete beginner's guide.
Author: BoonbuyFinds TeamUpdated: 3 min read
TL;DR: To buy through Boonbuy: create an account, paste a Taobao/Weidian/1688 product link (or click “Buy on Boonbuy” in our spreadsheet), pay for the item, wait for warehouse QC photos, then combine items into a parcel, pick a shipping line and pay for shipping.
Boonbuy is a shopping agent — a middleman that buys products for you on Chinese platforms (Taobao, Weidian, 1688), receives them at its warehouse, inspects them and ships everything to you in one parcel. That lets you shop from stores that don't ship abroad or accept foreign payments.
Step 1: Find a product
The easiest start is the Boonbuy spreadsheet — every product lists its price, estimated weight, QC score and a “Buy on Boonbuy” button. If you already have a Taobao, Weidian, 1688 or other agent link, paste it into the link converter to get a ready Boonbuy link.
Step 2: Place the order
- Open the product page on Boonbuy.
- Choose size and colour exactly as in the seller's listing.
- Use the remarks field to ask for extra photos or a check of a specific detail.
- Add the item to your cart and pay.
At this stage you only pay for the item and any delivery from the seller to the warehouse in China. International shipping is paid separately, later.
Step 3: Wait for the item to reach the warehouse
The seller ships the item to Boonbuy's warehouse in China. This usually takes a few days to a week, depending on the seller and stock. You can follow the status in your account.
Step 4: Check the QC photos
When the item arrives, it is weighed and photographed (QC — quality check photos). This is the most important moment: compare the photos with the listing and check size, colour, stitching and defects. Read our QC photos guide to learn what to look for.
If everything is fine, approve the item. If not, request a return or exchange before the parcel leaves China.
Step 5: Ship your parcel
Once all items are in the warehouse, create a parcel:
| Stage | What you do |
|---|---|
| Consolidation | Combine several items into one parcel — almost always cheaper than separate ones. |
| Packaging | Ask to remove boxes and unnecessary packaging to cut weight. |
| Shipping line | Choose a carrier — lines differ in price, delivery time and whether taxes are included. |
| Payment | Pay for shipping (this is where shipping coupons apply). |
You can estimate the parcel weight in advance with our weight calculator.
How much does it cost in total?
Total cost = item prices + domestic delivery in China + international shipping + any import taxes. Shipping is the biggest variable — it depends on weight and the line you choose. That's why it pays to bundle several items and choose lighter options (e.g. without boxes).
Common beginner mistakes
- Wrong size — Chinese sizing usually runs small. Compare the seller's size chart with clothes you own.
- Shipping every item separately — bundle them into one parcel.
- Skipping QC photos — it's your only cheap chance to return a faulty item.
- No coupons — a new account via our coupon link saves real money on your first parcel.
FAQ
Do I pay twice when buying through Boonbuy?
You pay in two stages: first for the item itself (plus any domestic delivery in China), and later — once items are at the warehouse — for international shipping of the whole parcel.
Can I return an item I don't like?
Yes, while the item is still at the warehouse in China. After QC photos you can request a return or exchange with the seller — rules and any costs depend on the seller.
