Step 1: Understanding the 1688 Marketplace

1688.com is Alibaba's domestic B2B platform primarily serving Chinese businesses and wholesalers. Unlike international-focused platforms, 1688 operates entirely in Chinese and typically requires bulk purchases. However, the platform hosts numerous authorized New Balance distributors offering genuine FuelCell models at wholesale pricing that's often 50% lower than international markets.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Superbuy Account

Superbuy functions as your personal shopping concierge in China. Begin by creating an account on their platform—the registration process takes under three minutes and requires basic information. Once registered, install the Superbuy browser extension, which automatically detects product pages on Chinese websites and generates shopping buttons for seamless purchasing.

Step 3: Identifying Authentic New Balance Sellers

Not all 1688 sellers carry genuine New Balance products. Look for sellers with:

• Gold supplier verification badges
• Minimum 2-year operational history
• Customer reviews with actual product photos
• Explicit authenticity guarantees

Cross-reference potential sellers using the comprehensive product database available at https://spreadsheet.help/, which maintains updated information on trusted 1688 New Balance vendors, specific FuelCell model availability, and recent purchaser feedback.

Step 4: The Purchasing Process

When you find your desired FuelCell model on 1688, copy the product URL and paste it into Superbuy's search bar. Alternatively, use their browser extension to automatically import product details. Specify your size (note that Chinese sizing typically uses centimeters rather than US/UK sizes), color preference, and quantity. For first-time purchases, consider ordering a single pair to verify quality before larger purchases.

Step 5: Warehouse Processing and Quality Verification

After purchase, your New Balance shoes will ship to Superbuy's domestic warehouse, usually within 3-5 business days. The warehouse team will:

• Inspect the shoes for authenticity
• Photograph them from multiple angles
• Check for manufacturing defects
• Confirm sizing accuracy

You'll receive detailed photos and can request additional inspections if needed before authorizing international shipment.

Step 6: International Shipping Considerations

Superbuy offers multiple shipping options with varying costs and delivery times. For single pairs of running shoes, economical air mail typically costs $15-25 with 15-25 day delivery. Express services like DHL or FedEx cost $30-45 but deliver in 5-8 days. Consider removing original boxes to reduce package weight and volume, potentially cutting shipping costs by 20-30%.

Step 7: Customs and Import Regulations

Most countries permit importing footwear for personal use without customs duties below certain value thresholds (typically $200-800 depending on your country). Superbuy can declare lower values upon request and mark shipments as gifts to minimize potential import fees, though this practice varies by destination country regulations.