In recent years, Chinese e-commerce platforms like 1688 have gained popularity among international shoppers due to competitive pricing on fashion items like Gentle Monster sunglasses. However, navigating these sites and arranging international shipping can be challenging. This guide will walk you through using Mulebuy, a reliable Chinese forwarder platform, to purchase authentic Gentle Monster products from 1688.
1688.com (Alibaba's domestic wholesale platform) offers significant discounts on designer items, but requires a Chinese payment method and domestic shipping address. This is where Mulebuy's service becomes essential for international buyers. Before proceeding:
Reference this helpful product comparison spreadsheet
Always confirm stock availability through seller chat before proceeding. Many popular models sell quickly.
1. Visit Mulebuy's official website and create an account
2. Verify your email and shipping address
3. Fund your account balance (supports PayPal and credit cards)
Mulebuy assigns you a personal Chinese warehouse address to receive your 1688 purchases before international forwarding. Their dashboard features:
Two alternatives:
Option A (Self-Service):
1. Copy 1688 product links into Mulebuy's order form
2. Input your specifications (color, quantity)
3. Let Mulebuy handle payment and negotiation
Option B (Full-Service):
1. Email your wishlist (with product codes) to Mulebuy support
2. Their team verifies authenticity directly with sellers
3. You approve the final quote
Mulebuy will:
Cost Breakdown Example:
- Gentle Monster Wholesale Price: ¥389 ($60)
Jinan to Shanghai Shipping: ¥15 ($2)
International Shipping: ¥180 ($30)
Total vs. Retail: $92 vs $250+
1. Wrong items received? 2. Long processing time? 3. Customs issues? While the process involves multiple steps, the savings make it worthwhile for bulk purchases (especially when splitting orders with friends). For detailed product specs and seasonal price trends, bookmark the updated 1688-Gentle Monster spreadsheet