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Last updated
March 24, 2025
If you’re selling products manufactured in China on Shopify, relying solely on US or European warehouses might be costing you time, money, and customers. Here’s why:
But there’s a smarter way: fulfilling orders directly from China. By storing inventory in Chinese warehouses, you can
Let's get started with the details.
Shopify Fulfillment Network (SFN) simplifies order management, inventory routing, and delivery tracking for sellers. However, it has critical limitations:
The Solution: Partner with a China-based 3PL that offers end-to-end services:
One of the major benefits of Shopify fulfillment from China is the ability to reduce costs.
Instead of sending all your inventory to the USA and then fulfilling orders from there, China-based fulfillment allows you to ship directly to your international customers.
This eliminates the need for double shipping, which can save on storage fees, shipping costs, and tariffs.
The ongoing trade tensions between the US and world have caused many e-commerce businesses to look for alternative shipping solutions.
By fulfilling directly from China, you reduce your reliance on US-based shipping services, saving you from costly tariffs and delays associated with international trade disputes.
Tips：Use China's 9610 export model to reclaim 9-13% VAT on cross-border e-commerce shipments.
Chinese suppliers are known for their ability to respond quickly to inventory needs and adjust production based on market demand.
If you're relying on a US-based fulfillment model, delays can occur when products need to be restocked, causing significant disruptions in your supply chain.
With fulfillment centers in China, your orders are processed in a timely manner and inventory in stock (available for sale) quickly.
Working with Chinese fulfillment centers allows for better synergy in your supply chain.
Combining your supplier and fulfillment service in one location leads to easier communication, faster lead times.
This integration can help streamline your business operations and improve overall efficiency.
China's manufacturing locate in key economic zones:
This concentration creates a 24-hour logistics ecosystem:
Result:
For e-commerce sellers, China-based fulfillment turns geographic density into a competitive weapon — cutting delivery times while maintaining 15-20% cost advantages over regional hubs.
Fulfillment and shipping from China solution is ideal for businesses of all sizes, allowing for easy scalability as your business grows.
Whether you're just starting or already scaling to meet high demand, these fulfillment centers can quickly adapt to meet your changing needs.
In addition, China warehouse offer flexible storage options that can accommodate both peak seasons (e.g., Black Friday, holiday sales) and off-peak times (e.g., post-holiday season).
During peak seasons,you can increase your inventory levels to ensure that you don’t run out of stock.
Conversely, during slower seasons, you can reduce your storage requirements to save on costs. That is great.
Link your e-commerce store to fulfillment centers via direct API integrations.
If platform can not sync orders directly, you can send order details in CSV file to provider.
According your vendors location, choose the right warehouse location will save both pick up and international shipping cost.
Pro Tip: Require quality inspection reports before stock enters warehouses.
Work with 3PL for pick and packing SOP. You can also ask supplier offer Value added service such as
Most fulfillment centers in China partner with global carriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS to ensure fast delivery.
Choosing the right shipping carrier based on your target market to ensuring competitive delivery speeds and customer satisfaction.
For example:
Pro Tip: Always confirm if your 3PL supports **DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid)** to avoid hidden customs fees.
Set up KPI and Monitor:
They are 2 main fulfillment options a Shopify store owner can choose.Both of them have pros and cons, Let’s compare.
When to a drop-shipping
When to Choose 3PL
Just find the right one fix to your current stage.
Timely delivery is essential in e-commerce, and ensuring that your fulfillment provider has strong partnerships with reliable global carriers is a must.
Look for providers that work with well-established carriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS and those that can offer competitive rates and fast shipping times.
A good fulfillment provider should offer efficient inventory management and real-time tracking to keep you updated on stock levels.
This reduces the risk of stock outs or overstocking and helps you maintain smooth operations.
When dealing with products from China, it’s crucial to ensure quality control throughout the fulfillment process.
A trusted fulfillment service should inspect your goods before they are shipped, minimizing the risk of returns or dissatisfied customers.
While Shopify fulfillment from China offers many advantages, it’s important to understand the regulatory requirements for importing and exporting goods.
Customs processes can slow down deliveries and create unexpected fees.
Ensure your fulfillment provider is experienced with global customs regulations and can help you navigate these challenges.
Working with a fulfillment center in China can sometimes involve communication challenges, especially if there is a language barrier.
Selecting a provider with excellent customer service and clear communication channels is crucial.
When partnering with a Chinese fulfillment provider for your Shopify store, focus on these critical criteria:
Background:
Niche: Handmade ceramic tableware.
- Monthly Orders: 3,000+.
- Original Setup: 100% inventory shipped to a US warehouse.
Challenges:
- Slow EU Delivery: 60+ days via US warehouse.
- High Costs: Logistics consumed 30% of revenue.
Solution:
The brand implemented Shopify inventory management in China through our WMS integration, which:
- Automatically split inventory between Shenzhen and US warehouses.
- Triggered restock alerts when China warehouse levels fell below 20%.
Results:
- Delivery Time: EU orders reduced to 7 days.
- Cost Savings: 40% lower logistics costs, 22% lower tariffs.
Storing inventory in China isn’t just about cost savings—it’s about speed, scalability, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re targeting Europe, Australia, or emerging markets, a China warehouse positions you to compete globally.
Ready to Start?
Get Your Custom China Fulfillment Plan
No. SFN doesn’t operate in China. Partner with a local 3PL for China-based fulfillment.
Use our platform or integrate tracking tools like AfterShip into your Shopify store.
Yes! We handle sea/air freight to global warehouses and manage customs clearance.
Absolutely. Our bilingual team responds within 2 hours (business days).
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) means we handle all customs duties and taxes upfront. Benefits include:
- No surprise fees for your customers.
- Higher delivery success rates (avoid customs holds).
