I am trying to buy plastic parts from a manufacturer company in Shenzhen, China but I have some questions first. I have asked for samples but they do not want to send me any free samples, even after I offered to pay for freight.

Here are their terms:

Country of origin: China
Shipment: EMS
Terms of payment: 100% T/T in advance Lead time: 20 days after the payment is in their ****
Bank fee: $25 per order

The price of the samples is $50 but then the EMS shipping is $38 and the bank fee is $25.

1- Is this a normal TOTAL price for a sample order?
2- Does anyone see any red flags?
3- What should be my reply to them?

I did a search for their name on here but nothing came up.

Thanks so much

Replying to [DREW23]:if you are a realy buyer,you should know seller need profit too.if you are not sincere to make business with them why they must give you free samples and free shipping .

HI DEAR, I RECOMMEND YOU THAT OPEN ACCOUNT WITH A COMPANY FREIGHT LIKE UPS OR DHL, TO CHARGE YOU SAMPLES DELIVERY. SUPPLIER COULD DELIVERY SAMPLES FOR FREE, BECAUSE IS THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE KNOWED, SO YOU PAY THE FREIGHT AND SUPPLIER PAY THE SAMPLE.

Replying to [DREW23]: I have the same problem and keep telling suppliers that if they want to sell their product to the rest of the world they have to show a sample so that the quality and product can be evaluated by your customers. No body can afford to by a product that has not been seen by potential customers.

Replying to [DREW23]: it's very normal situation. Manufacturer face too many buyers who want to get the samples to test before an order, so if they send sample free, then it will be a great burden. Also, the bank charge is also very expensive, usd25 is needed, anyway, i think after you place the order, they can return it to you.

when dealing with China you are buying so cheap it pays to pay for samples and shipping. I found the chinese feel you are a better customer. They will treat you better. If you cannot afford tp pay for samples you should not be importing

Replying to [DREW23]:Just change supplier, there are tons of companies prodicing plastic stuff. Western people (incl. me) have quite problem understanding chinese way of biz.

Replying to [DREW23]:send Money Western Union. I find it cheaper. My bank charges $40 for wire transfer. Some manufacturers will return cost of samples and cost of wire transfer with first order.

Replying to [DREW23]:
Yes, I agree.
people will think you are real buyer if you pay for the samples.

Replying to [DREW23]:
you are right i want to start business i am asking for mobile phone samples they want to charge me 70 to 80 usd for freight how do we deal with china. that is how they are loosing business. i totally agree with you

Replying to [DREW23]:
I don't know the products you are looking for ,
but free sample , I don't think that's good way to start a new business
for both you and the manufacturer.