How Much Does a China Sourcing Agent Cost?
One of the most common questions we receive is: “How much should I pay for a sourcing agent?” The answer depends on several factors, but this guide will give you a clear understanding of typical pricing structures.
Common Pricing Models
1. Commission-Based Pricing
The most common model where agents charge a percentage of your order value.
| Order Value | Typical Commission |
|---|---|
| Under $5,000 | 8-15% |
| $5,000 - $20,000 | 6-10% |
| $20,000 - $100,000 | 4-7% |
| Over $100,000 | 3-5% |
Best for: Regular orders, ongoing relationships
2. Fixed Fee Services
Pay a set amount for specific services:
- Supplier Search: $150-300 per search
- Factory Audit: $200-400 per factory
- Sample Consolidation: $30-100 per shipment
- Quality Inspection: $200-400 per inspection
Best for: Specific one-time needs
3. Monthly Retainer
A fixed monthly fee for ongoing support:
- Basic: $300-500/month
- Standard: $500-1,000/month
- Premium: $1,000-2,500/month
Best for: Regular sourcing needs, product development
What Affects Pricing?
Several factors influence what you’ll pay:
- Order Complexity: Custom products cost more than standard items
- Volume: Higher volumes typically mean lower percentages
- Service Level: Full-service vs. basic sourcing
- Industry: Some industries require specialized knowledge
- Location: Agents in tier-1 cities may charge more
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of agents who:
- Won’t disclose their fee structure upfront
- Charge unusually low fees (they may take kickbacks from factories)
- Require large upfront payments
- Won’t provide references or case studies
Our Transparent Pricing
At ChinaSourcePro, we believe in complete transparency:
- No hidden kickbacks from factories
- Clear commission structure published on our website
- Original factory quotations shared with clients
- Flexible pricing models to suit your needs
View our pricing or contact us for a custom quote.
Have questions about sourcing costs? Leave a comment or reach out directly.