Importing golf shoes directly from a Chinese manufacturer can improve your margins and give you more control over your product range. But first-time importers often have questions about pricing terms, payments, lead times and shipping. This guide walks through the basics, step by step.
Step 1: Understand FOB and other price terms
Supplier quotations usually use an Incoterm that defines who pays for what. The most common for footwear is:
- FOB (Free On Board): the price includes the shoes, export packing and delivery to the port in China, loaded on the vessel. From there, freight, insurance, import duties and delivery are paid by you (usually through your freight forwarder).
Other terms you may see are EXW (collect from the factory), CIF (supplier pays sea freight and insurance to your port) and DDP (delivered to your door with duties paid). When comparing quotes, make sure you are comparing the same terms.
The prices on our website are FOB reference prices in USD; your final price depends on quantity, customization and packaging.
Step 2: Request quotations and samples
Send the model numbers, colors, estimated quantities and destination country. A good quotation lists price per pair, MOQ, sample cost, lead time and payment terms. Then order samples — for us they take about 15 days. See our supplier checklist for what to look for.
Step 3: Agree on payment terms
Common payment methods for footwear imports:
| Method | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| T/T (bank transfer) | Most bulk orders | Often a deposit before production and the balance before shipment |
| L/C (letter of credit) | Larger orders | Your bank guarantees payment against shipping documents; adds bank fees and paperwork |
| PayPal | Samples and small orders | Fast and convenient; fees are higher for large amounts |
We accept T/T, L/C and PayPal. Payment terms for each order are written on the proforma invoice. As a general safety rule, always confirm bank details directly with your supplier by phone or video call before a first transfer.
Step 4: Plan your lead time
A simple planning formula:
Production + inspection + booking + sea transit + customs clearance + delivery + safety buffer
- Stock models can ship quickly, because they are already made.
- Bulk and custom orders: about 35 days of production after sample approval and deposit.
- Sea freight time depends on the route and your forwarder — ask them for current transit times to your port.
Golf shoes are seasonal. For a spring season, aim to have stock in your warehouse before the season starts, not during it.
Step 5: Choose a shipping method
- Express courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS): fastest, ideal for samples and small urgent orders.
- Air freight: faster than sea, cost-effective for medium orders.
- Sea freight (LCL or FCL): the most economical for bulk. LCL shares a container; FCL is a full container for your goods alone.
A freight forwarder can quote door-to-door and handle customs clearance for you.
Step 6: Documents and customs
Typical export documents include the commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading (or air waybill). Some buyers also need a certificate of origin. Footwear is classified in Chapter 64 of the Harmonized System, and the exact code depends mainly on the upper and outsole materials. Import duty rates vary by country and by code, so ask your customs broker to confirm the classification and duty for each model before you order.
Step 7: Inspection before shipment
Before the balance payment, you can ask for inspection photos and videos, or hire a third-party inspection company to check a sample of the goods at the factory. This is especially worthwhile for your first order with a new supplier.
Frequently asked questions
What does FOB price mean for golf shoes?
FOB means the price covers the shoes, export packing and delivery onto the vessel at the Chinese port. Freight, insurance, import duties and final delivery are paid by the buyer.
Which payment methods are safest for a first order?
For samples and small orders, PayPal is convenient. For bulk orders, T/T with a deposit and balance before shipment is common; an L/C adds bank protection for larger orders. Always have terms written on the proforma invoice.
How long does it take to receive golf shoes from China?
Stock orders can ship quickly. Custom orders need about 15 days for samples and about 35 days for bulk production, plus shipping time, which depends on the method and route.
