Working with China in Vancouver

Working with China from Vancouver: where to start

The Port of Vancouver is the largest in Canada and the main Pacific gateway from China — the closest point in North America to Asia. You will need a supplier, quality control, and customs clearance.

What matters specifically for Russian speakers from the CIS

• Paying the supplier. Paying China from a Canadian company account is straightforward, but opening that account is difficult for a Russian national; common solutions include USDT, a payment agent in China or Hong Kong, and international wire transfers;
• Canadian banks scrutinize funds originating from Russia;
• factor commission and exchange rate costs (1–3%) into your cost price.

Supplier search and vetting

• platforms: Alibaba, 1688 (cheaper), Global Sources, Canton Fair;
• verify the business licence, request samples, and arrange a video audit;
• payment 30/70; Trade Assurance and pre-shipment inspection.

Logistics and customs clearance

• sea via the Port of Vancouver and Prince Rupert — the shortest route from Asia, ~10–14 days;
• inland — by rail (intermodal);
• a Business Number (BN) is required along with CBSA clearance; on import — GST plus duty;
• air freight via YVR — for urgent shipments.

Common mistakes and how to choose the right partner

• ordering without a sample and QC leads to defects;
• a suspiciously cheap ’supplier’ is a middleman;
• calculate the full landed cost including logistics and duties;
• it is safer to work through a turnkey partner in China.

Need suppliers and logistics from China to Vancouver? Describe your task — we’ll help you find and verify.