This China sourcing brief template helps you collect information you already know before starting a research engagement. Write “unknown” where requirements are still open; you do not need to assess suppliers to complete it.
What to include in your brief
Your product
Describe its intended use, must-have materials, dimensions, functions and acceptable alternatives. Note which drawings or reference images are available.
Your market
List the countries you intend to sell into, your customer type and sales channel. Record known requirements and questions that need specialist review.
Quantity and budget
State the initial quantity, likely repeat volume, price target and currency. Make clear whether your budget includes freight, duty and import VAT.
Timing and flexibility
Give the required arrival date, delivery destination and sample deadline if known. Distinguish fixed requirements from preferences.
Your starting point
List any suppliers, quotes or documents you already have, and the decision you need help making. Keep sensitive documents in the agreed private client channel.
What happens after the brief?
SinoSource's paid service uses the agreed brief to research candidates, assess evidence, compare supplier fit and explain the recommendation. The findings and next steps belong in your private client workspace.
Explore the illustrative supplier decision report, then check the current packages and scope. Research may identify a need for independent testing, inspection or specialist review.
The download contains buyer-input fields only. It does not contain supplier intelligence, scoring criteria, a verification result or a recommendation.
Questions about the template
Can I use it without a supplier shortlist?
Yes. Describe the product and decision you need. Supplier discovery can form part of the commissioned work.
What if I do not know the final specification or budget?
Record the current assumptions and unresolved choices. A clear unknown is more useful than a number that looks final but has not been agreed.
Does downloading the sheet start a research request?
No. The download is a blank text file to complete in your own editor. Choose a package and follow the onboarding instructions to commission the work.
For background, read what supplier verification covers and what to expect from paid supplier diligence.