I would also be extremely interested to know if anyone has done this.

These are my reasons for not doing it!

I looked into this possibility in 2010, when in China. I speak some Mandarin, and have Chinese friends, including an engineer and a production manager, who wanted to assist me, but both thought it was not worthwhile, even though they could certainly negotiate a good discount with suppliers, something which would be difficult or impossible for someone not on site. Neither of them recommended an individual dealing with suppliers for a one-off valuable purchase unless one could inspect the goods.

We discussed sourcing the equipment, negotiating with the supplier, price, inspection, and payment. Export documentation and shipping/insurance etc could be arranged through the supplier or a shipping agent, similarly the UK import documentation/duty arrangements. Some shipping companies/ agents offer a complete package, door-to-door, though costs can be high.

Whilst it was theoretically possible to save a small amount of money over UK prices, we could find no advantage over purchasing from a reputable company such as ARC. who offer a guarantee, after sales service, spares and technical advice (in English). There are no hidden costs, no nasty surprises, and the price you see is what you pay – the supplier has done all the hard work and taken the risk. (See the postings re. the storm-related delay to ARC’s recent shipment)

I realise that things may have changed since 2010, and that reputable companies may be offering export deals direct from China, probaby through the internet, but personally I see no need to change our original assessment.

As an afterthought – when dealing directly with a foreign supplier for a small order (“small” to the supplier, not the purchaser) the effects of currency exchange rates can be like a game of snakes and ladders, unless agreed in advance with all parties. Am currently in SE Asia, where earlier this year because of currency fluctuations my car cost me 9% more than if I had waited another 6 weeks… next year it may look like the bargain of the decade, but if so, everything else will be more expensive…such is life.

(No connection with ARC, just very satisfied customer)

Dave

I've not shipped stuff to the UK and dealt with regulations there but I have purchased directly from China on a number of occasions. My general experience has been very good, The prices have been unbelievably low, but the shipping can double the cost, even then its cheaper than buying locally. The problem as an individual is you don't have the benefit of volume so heavy items can become prohibitively expensive to ship. When it comes down to it all the regular local suppliers are doing the same thing but have agreements and supply lines established. Most things in their catalogue can be found by searching Alibaba.com, then you just decide which way you want to go.

The only real problem is quality. Numerous suppliers can provide the same product but the quality may not be the same. That said I've weighed up the saving and taken the chance and not been disappointed.

With Seig there is only one source and members of our club looked at buying directly. On balance they went to the local supplier because of the shipping cost. However, for small items I'd suggest looking at going direct

Pete