Many overseas shoppers want to purchase New Balance 574 sneakers directly from Chinese wholesale platforms like 1688.com, where prices are often lower than in Western markets. However, 1688 is primarily designed for domestic buyers, making international transactions difficult. This is where Mulebuy, a Chinese reverse purchasing agent (forwarding service), comes in. Below is a step-by-step guide to using Mulebuy to order New Balance 574 from 1688.
Step 1: Find the Right Product Listing
Start by searching for "New Balance 574" on 1688.com. Due to China's manufacturing dominance, many hidden vendors sell high-quality replicas or original NB 574 batches. Be sure to verify seller credibility by checking ratings and reviews.
If you’re unsure which product to choose, an external spreadsheet at https://spreadsheet.help/
Step 2: Sign Up for Mulebuy
Mulebuy acts as your purchasing middleman:
- Register on the Mulebuy
- Submit the product link from 1688.
- Specify details like size, color, and desired quantity.
- Mulebuy buys the product in China and ships it internationally to you.
Step 3: Paying for the Order
Unlike agents like Taobao’s official forwarders, Mulebuy requires prepayment for the sneakers + local Chinese delivery (to their warehouse) + international shipping fees. They support:
- PayPal
- Alipay
- Wise (for low-fee transfers)
After payment, Mulebuy confirms your purchase with the 1688 seller.
Step 4: Quality Check & Forwarding
Mulebuy inspects the received New Balance 574 sneakers (photos can be requested) before shipping them overseas. You can choose between cargo options like:
- Express couriers (DHL, FedEx)
- Cheaper air freight
- Sea shipping
Step 5: Customs & Receiving Your Order
Mulebuy handles export documentation, but import duties apply based on your country. For example:
| Country | Estimated Duties (NB 574) |
|---|
| USA | 12-15% of declared value |
| EU | VAT (15-21%) |
| UK | 20% VAT |
Final Tips
Key takeaways when using Mulebuy for 1688 New Balance orders include:
- Compare sellers using crowdsourced spreadsheet data.
- Opt for replicas marked "Original Factory Shoes" ("原厂鞋") to balance cost/quality.
- Request extra QC photos—1688 sneaker batches differ despite identical listings.
With Mulebuy bridging the logistical gap, sourcing New Balance 574 directly from Chinese wholesalers becomes effortless. Follow this guide to avoid delays, customs issues, or subpar products.
