Buy Just One Single Item on Alibaba

Let’s find out in this blog.

1. What is Alibaba.com?

Alibaba is an online marketplace for anything you want to buy. It is so big that you can buy almost anything you can name and think of! Founded in 1999, Alibaba is a B2B platform that aims to connect business owners with suppliers.

If you are a business owner looking for a supplier, this is the best place because manufacturers and direct factories sell here. You can buy their product for a lower price. It focuses on wholesale or bulk buying.

What is the difference between the online sites Alibaba.com and AliExpress.com?

In 2010, the Alibaba group launched AliExpress, an online store that focuses on retailing. If Alibaba is for wholesale buying, AliExpress is for small orders and personal use. For a slightly higher price difference, you can purchase a product on AliExpress without the minimum MOQ. Unlike Alibaba, buying requires an MOQ.

Buyers can buy anything from clothing, beauty and health products, electronics, toys or sports products, and many more. They have buyer protection programs, so you don’t have to worry about placing your orders from anywhere in the world.

Alibaba and AliExpress can ship your purchase and package to many countries. Both platforms offer discounts and deals for any type of online buyer. These two online marketplaces have user-friendly websites and payment options. You can download the mobile app for easy access and a swift buying process.

2. Can I buy a single item on Alibaba?

Yes, you can buy a single item on Alibaba. However, note that some sellers do not offer this option, which is not as common as bulk purchasing. Some suppliers are willing to sell single or per-piece items on rare occasions. This is likely possible when they are trying to promote a new product or clear out inventory.

Most listings on Alibaba show a minimum order quantity (MOQ). However, some suppliers offer the option to purchase a single item. If you are interested in a specific type of gadget, you can ask the supplier if they are willing to sell just one piece.

For example, Guangdong Yashikang Electrical Appliances on Alibaba can sell one piece of some of its products, like a smart Android TV. They sell a variety of electronic products, and some listings have a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of just one piece.

Some suppliers may accommodate your request, especially if you want to test their product and let them know you need a sample. If you express interest in potential future purchases, they will sell you one piece to build a partnership.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Buying One Item on Alibaba.com

1）First, you need to create an account.

Steps to sign up for Alibaba.com

1. Go to Alibaba.com

2. Click ‘SIGN UP’ at the dashboard’s top right corner.

3. Fill out the form to create a new account.

4. Alibaba will send a verification link to your email. Click the link and complete the registration to start browsing or buying.

Required information when you’re creating an account:

1. Active and valid email address

2. A strong password

3. Company name

4. Telephone number

2）After account creation, you can start searching for Items

How to use the search bar

1. Type a word of the product you want in the search bar- the keyword is the name of the item you’re looking for.

2. You can also use the Filter to search by product categories, price range, and other preferences.
   

Tips for finding specific items

1. Be specific with your search by using detailed keywords to narrow your search results. For example, if you want a vertical tv, type “vertical standing ad tv” instead of just putting “screen tv”.

2. If your initial search doesn’t yield good results, use categories or search by image. The camera icon on the search bar allows you to use a photo of a product you’re looking for to help with the search.

Filtering Results

Using filters can help you find the exact product you need. You can find suppliers that accept single-item orders when you follow these two steps:

1. Use the “Ready to Ship” filter because these items are available for immediate shipping and usually have no MOQ.

2. Use the filter “Minimum Order Quantity” and set it to “1” to display the suppliers that sell one item

Selecting a Supplier

Choose the right supplier and use the guide below to ensure you’ll find the best suppliers when buying on Alibaba:

1. Check the supplier ratings and reviews – a high rating indicates buyers are satisfied with their purchase. In the review section, read testimonials from buyers about the supplier’s service and product quality.
   

2. Contact the supplier for more information – do not hesitate to ask the supplier if you need more information about the product. They know that replying to their customers can increase sales, so you can ask them for information like shipping schedule or time, discounts, or product specs. You can also negotiate on the MOQ or shipping cost.

Placing Your Order ,How do I buy from Alibaba?

It is easy to buy from Alibaba. After you search the product and found a reliable supplier, you can start ordering.

1. How to place an order for a single item

2. Contact the supplier to confirm that they will sell a single item.

3. Click the “Add to Cart” button.

4. When you are ready to checkout, fill in details such as your shipping address and choose your payment method.

5. Choose your shipping and payment options

Alibaba shopping is convenient because it offers payment options.

• Credit or debit cardsaccepts Visa, Mastercard or AMEX.

• Online bank transfersdepending on the country, you can use transfer services like Trustly or Klarna.

• Bank wire transfersinternational wire transfers

• Paypalyou can use Paypal, but it comes with an additional charge like a Paypal fee.

• Escrow servicemeans you can hold the payment until your product is delivered.

• Alibaba’s Trade Assurance program – this is the payment protection for com shopping, especially for first-time buyers.

Order Confirmation and Tracking

Tracking your order is easy when you buy from Alibaba.

Receiving Order Confirmation and Tracking Number

When you place an order on Alibaba, you’ll immediately receive an order confirmation email. You’ll also see the tracking number to monitor your order. Once the seller ships your order, you’ll receive a shipping notification email.

How to Track Your Order Using 17Track or Similar Services

To track your order, follow these three simple steps:

1. Use Your Tracking Number: You can find the tracking number in several places like confirmation email or the shipping notification email. You can also find it in your Alibaba account under “My Orders”.

2. Use the 17Track Website and put the tracking number information.
   

3. Click the “TRACK” button to view your package’s real-time status. You will find information like the current status, place, and estimated delivery time of your package.

4. AliExpress: Your Online Store for Individual Purchases

1) What is AliExpress?

AliExpress is the best platform for individual consumers. It is designed for buyers who only buy single items or small quantities. AliExpress is great for people who want to buy many products at good prices.

You can trust that buying from AliExpress is secure. They have strong buyer protection to ensure safety. You can search Alibaba for the newest gadgets, trendy clothes, home items, or whatever you want to search for!

2) What can you buy from AliExpress?

AliExpress is an online store similar to Alibaba where you can buy almost the same products. It sells millions of products, including fashion products, health-related or beauty items, products for women, men and children, and more.

You will find a wide selection of almost anything in AliExpress. The Categories dashboard has a list and a sub-list of everything you can buy. Here are some of the categories on the website:

• Home and Garden

• Hair Extensions and Wigs

• Men’s Clothing

• Accessories

• Consumer Electronics

• Home Improvement and Lighting

• Home Appliances

• Automotive and Motorcycle

• Luggages and Bags

• Shoes

• Special Occasion Costume

• Women’s Clothing

3) How to purchase from AliExpress

Buying from AliExpress is pretty much the same as buying on Alibaba. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Search for products- Use the search bar to find the product you want to buy.

2. Add the item to Cart- Once found, you can click on the items and add them to your cart.

3. Check OutGo to your cart and proceed to checkout when you want to buy the item

4. Payment and ShippingChoose your payment method and shipping option.

5. Order ConfirmationYou’ll receive an email confirming your order with details like order ID, delivery date, and tracking number.

6. Track your orderUse the tracking number to see the status of your order and the delivery details of the package.

5. FAQS

1) What is the minimum order or MOQ on Alibaba?

The minimum order or MOQ on Alibaba varies by supplier. Some sellers set the MOQ at 100 pieces, while others might only require you to buy one. The MOQ varies on every product and the supplier’s rules. The MOQ is displayed on the product listing when you browse the website.

2) What does one piece mean on Alibaba?

“One piece” is the MOQ. It means the seller will sell just one item instead of requiring a bulk order. You can buy a single product without needing to purchase multiple units, which helps small shop owners when purchasing.

3) Can you buy personal use products from Alibaba?

Yes, you can buy things from Alibaba for your personal use. While its focus is on businesses, many sellers now sell to individuals, too.

Just look for suppliers with low requirements for MOQ. There are thousands of sellers on Alibaba, so you can definitely find one that sells products with low MOQ.

4) Is AliExpress different from Alibaba.com?

Yes, AliExpress is different from Alibaba.com. Though AliExpress is owned by Alibaba, each has its own focus or customer target. AliExpress is for people who want to buy single items or small quantities, while Alibaba.com is mostly for businesses that would like to do wholesale or bulk buys.

6. Conclusion

We hope we have provided helpful information when buying one-piece items from Alibaba. Alibaba online store China is a great place to buy from direct manufacturers to grow your business. With reasonable prices and easy MOQ, you can find your business partners here.

Can anyone buy from Alibaba? Yes! You just need set up an account and check out the items you want to buy.

Buying a single item or unit in Alibaba is possible. You can refer to our guide above  on how to buy things from Alibaba when you only want to buy a piece of it. However, for convenience, if you cannot find sellers in Alibaba that sell one piece, you can choose AliExpress.

AliExpress wholesale is also available. Sellers can offer good rates for products that you want to buy in bulk.

How JustChinaIt can help you?

Do you still need an answer to this: What is better for singular orders, Alibaba or AliExpress? If you are still confused about how you can buy items from Alibaba or AliExpress, we are here to make the buying experience great for you.

We are a sourcing company in China that can help you find reliable manufacturers for all your company needs or even personal use. We are a one-stop shop for all your sourcing and shipping needs.

Here’s why you should choose US:

1. We are the experts and knowledge of the best suppliers.

2. We have the network to help you get connected to the best direct factories and suppliers from Alibaba or AliExpress

3. We help with Quality product checks to ensure you’ll get only high-quality products

4. We can get the best deals for you and negotiate with a Chinese seller.

5. We have the solution for your shipment handling and getting clearance from customs.