Sourcing agent in China or end-to-end importer? The differences
By Martín Novoa, Founder of Dinasty Partners · Updated · 4 min read
Short answer
A sourcing agent in China finds suppliers and coordinates the purchase, but the import, customs and risk usually stay with you. An importer with its own team in both countries, like Dinasty Partners, takes responsibility end to end: factory, quality, freight, customs and delivery in Chile.
What each one does
| Task | Sourcing agent | Importer with its own team |
|---|---|---|
| Find and negotiate with factories | Yes | Yes |
| Audit the factory in person | Sometimes | Yes, with a team in China |
| Pre-shipment inspection | For an extra fee | Built into the process |
| Freight and consolidation | Usually not | Yes |
| Customs clearance in Chile | No | Yes |
| Who's accountable if something goes wrong | You, facing the factory | A single party, end to end |
Which one is right for you?
- Sourcing agent: if you already import, have a customs broker and a freight forwarder, and only need someone to find and negotiate in China.
- End-to-end importer: if it's your first import, if the product carries your brand, or if you'd rather have a single accountable partner with an office in Chile.