From Ghosted to Golden: How to Get Chinese Suppliers to Respond to Your Emails

You've spent hours researching, found a promising supplier in China, and crafted what you think is the perfect inquiry email. You hit send, full of anticipation... and then, silence. Days turn into a week, and your inbox remains empty. It's one of the most common frustrations for businesses trying to import from China.

The truth is, reputable Chinese suppliers are inundated with hundreds of emails daily, many of which are low-quality or spam. They've become experts at quickly filtering out inquiries that don't look serious. To get a response, you need to prove you are a professional, legitimate buyer worth their time. This guide will show you how.

How to Write an Inquiry Email That Gets Opened and Answered

1. Create a Professional and Specific Subject Line

This is the first thing a supplier sees. A vague subject line like "Quote" or "Inquiry" will likely be ignored. Be clear and professional.

• Bad: Price Request
• Good: Sourcing Inquiry for [Product Name] - [Your Company Name]
• Excellent: Inquiry for 5000 units of Model X-123 - ABC Trading Ltd.

2. Be Specific and Detailed in Your Request

Show that you've done your research. Vague questions get vague (or no) answers. Instead of "How much for your tables?", provide a detailed list of your requirements.

• Product Name/Model Number: Be exact.
• Material Specifications: e.g., Grade 304 Stainless Steel.
• Size & Dimensions: Provide clear measurements.
• Quantity: Give an estimated order quantity (e.g., 1000, 5000).
• Packaging Requirements: e.g., Custom branded box.
• Certifications Needed: e.g., CE, ISO 9001.

3. Keep it Concise and Easy to Read

Use simple, clear English and avoid slang or complex industry jargon. Use bullet points and short paragraphs to make your email scannable. A massive wall of text is intimidating and will likely be skipped.

4. Briefly Introduce Your Business

A short introduction builds credibility. Mention your company name, what you do, and your country. This shows you are a real business, not just a random person.

5. Ask Smart Questions

Asking intelligent questions shows you are an experienced buyer. Instead of just asking for the price, ask for:

• Their Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ).
• The price per unit at your target quantity.
• Production lead time.
• Payment terms (e.g., 30% deposit, 70% on completion).

The Ultimate Solution: Bypass the Cold Email Entirely

Even with the perfect email, you are still one of hundreds in an inbox. The most effective way to connect with top-tier suppliers is to have a professional partner on the ground who already has established relationships.

This is the core of the Befach sourcing service. We don't just send emails; we leverage our network. We communicate directly with vetted, reliable suppliers who we know are looking for serious partners. We handle the language barriers, cultural nuances, and negotiation for you.

A serious buyer understands the full import process, from sourcing to logistics and final customs clearance, which involves regulations from bodies like the CBIC. When we approach suppliers on your behalf, they know they are dealing with a professional operation.

Stop Being Ignored. Start Importing.

Why fight for attention in a crowded inbox? Partner with Befach.com and get direct access to the best suppliers for your business needs.

Ready to connect with reliable suppliers who are eager to do business? Contact us today and let us make the introduction.