Alibaba Price vs Landed Cost in India: What Importers Often Miss
An Alibaba or factory price is not your final cost in India. Learn what Indian importers should add before deciding whether a China product is commercially viable.
The price on the screen is not the price in your warehouse
A supplier may quote 5 RMB, 10 RMB or $2 per piece. That number is useful, but it is only one part of the decision. ## Ask what the supplier price actually includes Is it EXW or FOB? Is packaging included? Is branding included? What is the MOQ? What are the carton dimensions and gross weight? Where is the factory located? ## Then look at the India-side cost The product classification and applicable duties matter. Freight and destination logistics matter. If the product is regulated, compliance costs or prerequisites can matter too. ## A lower unit price can create a higher landed cost Heavy packaging, low carton efficiency, a distant pickup location or a compliance problem can easily erase a small factory-price advantage. ## Compare like with like When comparing two Chinese suppliers, build both offers to the same commercial point: same specification, same packing standard, same Incoterm and a realistic landed-cost estimate. > [!TIP] > **Action Step**: Send us the supplier link or PI and we can help you identify the information missing from the factory price. ## Helpful Resources & Official Links - ICEGATE Import Trade Guide - ICEGATE Customs Duty Calculator - LCL Global Sourcing & Import Services
Planning a China Order or Need True Landed Cost?
Send your supplier PI, product specification or link for a transparent review of HSN classification, customs duty, and end-to-end logistics.
