I want to import video/digital cameras from Japan and China?

Question

What is the safest way to pay in advance.
Moreover, should I pay all in advance, as it is always asked or there is the chance that some company does accept something like 50/50%?
I've been looking for "gold suppliers" companies in Alibaba.com and is this the place where to look for?
Thx!

Answer 1

"Gold supplier" is just a title.Anyone pay alibaba.com USD10000 can get this title.Alibaba won't certify the vendor's truth.Pay all in advance is very dangerous.The solution for your case is
1.IF the amount you'll pay more than USD10000.
To contact your local bank for openning an "Letter of credit",this is a payment term in international trade.It'll protect your benefit.
2.IF the amount you'll pay less than USD10000.
Hire a third party in China to visit the vendor you select,to certify the truth before your payment.
In fact,digital cameras's quality is difficult to control.I suggest you select the famous brands like Panasonic,Canon,Sony.There's no trick with these big brands if you deal with them.
Any query about Chinese manufactory you can contact me.Good luck.

Answer 2

if u r in uk then paying by credit card gives u protectsion under section 75 of the consumer credit act.
If the goods dont show up or r insufficient quality or other than described u can get money back from the credit card company (i dont know if this works in us)

Answer 3

You would need to negotiate with the companies as they will likely have diferent procedures.