Importing baby strollers from China can be one of the most profitable categories for baby product distributors — but only if you get the sourcing process right. This guide walks first-time buyers through the complete journey, from shortlisting factories to receiving your first container.

Step 1: Define Your Market and Product Requirements

Before contacting any supplier, write down exactly what you need. Buyers who send a vague "please send me your catalogue" email get slow, generic replies. Buyers who send a clear requirement get fast, serious quotations.

  • Target market: EU, US, Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia or Latin America — each has different safety standards and customer preferences.
  • Product type: standard single stroller, twin stroller, travel stroller, or combination sets (stroller + high chair).
  • Price range: economy, mid-range or premium — this decides which factory tier to contact.
  • Quantity: container load or partial? A 40HQ container typically fits 800–1,200 assembled strollers depending on model and packing.
  • Customization: do you need OEM (your logo) or ODM (new design, color, fabric)?

Step 2: Find and Screen Reliable Factories

There are tens of thousands of "baby product manufacturers" in China, but only a fraction export seriously. Screen candidates on these points:

  • Factory vs. trading company: both can work, but verify who actually produces the goods. Ask for factory photos, video calls, and the business license.
  • Export experience: how many years have they exported? Which markets? Ask for shipment records or past clients (with permission).
  • Certifications: EN 1888 (Europe), ASTM F833 (USA) or the local standard of your market. A factory that already holds your target certification saves you months of testing.
  • Factory audit: video call the production line, warehouse and QC room. A professional factory will happily arrange it.

Step 3: Request Samples Before Bulk Orders

Never place a bulk order based on photos alone. Request 1–3 samples of shortlisted models. What to check on the sample:

  • Welding quality, plastic flash and surface finish
  • Folding mechanism smoothness and locking safety
  • Fabric smell, stitching and washability
  • Brakes, harness and wheel stability
  • Packaging strength — will it survive a 40HQ journey?

Most factories (including Andbaby) charge a sample fee that is refunded or deducted from your first bulk order. Keep samples for your own records and for certification testing.

Step 4: Compare Quotations Intelligently

A low unit price does not mean a low total cost. Compare quotations on the same basis:

  • Incoterm:FOB (which port?), CIF or DDP? Freight and duties change the final landed cost a lot.
  • Packing:Units per carton, carton size, gross weight — these decide how many units fit a 40HQ.
  • Customization:Logo printing, color and fabric changes usually add cost and lead time.
  • Payment:Typical terms are 30% deposit + 70% balance before shipment, or T/T and L/C.
  • Lead time:Stock items 7–15 days; mass production 25–45 days after deposit and design confirmation.

Step 5: Plan Certification, Documentation and Logistics

If your market requires certification (CE/EN 1888, ASTM F833), confirm who provides the test reports and whether the certificate covers your model. Keep these export documents ready: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and, if required, the test reports.
For logistics, compare sea freight via your agent or the factory's recommended forwarder. Make sure the factory's packaging is designed for long sea voyages — moisture-proof bags, strong cartons and proper palletizing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing the cheapest quote without checking certification and quality
  • Skipping samples to "save time" — this is the most expensive shortcut
  • Not confirming who covers certification and test fees
  • Forgetting to check the carton count per container until it is too late
  • Paying 100% in advance to an unverified supplier

Why Work with Andbaby?

Andbaby (Wuhan Quzhiyuan Technology Co., Ltd.) is a factory-direct manufacturer of baby strollers, walkers, high chairs and baby beds, exporting to 20+ countries. We hold EN 1888 and ASTM F833 certification, support OEM/ODM customization, and offer MOQ from 100–200 units per model. Whether you are importing your first container or your fiftieth, we respond within 24 hours with a clear, itemized quotation.