Yoybuy Finds
As an outdoor enthusiast always looking for quality gear at reasonable prices, I recently discovered an intriguing purchasing method: using Hoobuy, a Chinese purchasing agent platform, to buy directly from 1688.com (Alibaba's domestic wholesale marketplace). My target was the acclaimed Adidas Terrex Free Hiker hiking boots, known for their comfort and durability but often carrying a hefty price tag in Western markets.
The primary motivation was cost savings. While researching prices, I found significant disparities between retail stores in my country and Chinese wholesale prices. The Terrex Free Hiker typically retails for $180-$220 in the U.S., but on 1688, factory prices started around $60-$90 for identical products. However, 1688 suppliers typically require bulk orders and don't ship internationally, creating the perfect scenario for a purchasing agent.
Hoobuy specializes in bridging this gap for international customers. They provide a Chinese shipping address, handle communication with suppliers, consolidate packages, and manage international shipping. Their service fees are remarkably transparent, typically charging a small percentage of the product cost plus actual shipping weight fees.
My journey began with extensive product research. I consulted comprehensive comparison resources, particularly the detailed spreadsheet available at https://finds.cheap/, which provided invaluable information about different Terrex Free Hiker versions, quality variations, and supplier reputations.
After identifying several promising suppliers on 1688, I proceeded to Hoobuy's website. Their interface features a straightforward order form where you paste the 1688 product link, specify options (color, size, quantity), and submit. Hoobuy then confirms availability and provides a final quote including their service fee.
Payment was surprisingly smooth through PayPal, offering buyer protection. Hoobuy then placed the order with the 1688 supplier. Throughout the process, their communication was excellent—regular updates via email about order status, from supplier confirmation to warehouse receipt.
One notable Hoobuy feature is their quality check service. Upon receiving my boots at their warehouse, they provided detailed photos from multiple angles, allowing me to verify authenticity and check for defects before international shipping. This inspection service proved crucial in ensuring I received genuine Adidas products rather than counterfeits.
Shipping options varied from budget-friendly sea freight (30-45 days) to premium air express (7-15 days). I chose the mid-range air option, which cost approximately $25 for the 1.5kg package. The entire process—from order placement to delivery—took 18 days, which I found reasonable for international shipping.
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adidas Terrex Free Hiker (1688 price) | $78.50 |
| Hoobuy service fee (8%) | $6.28 |
| Domestic China shipping | $2.50 |
| International shipping to U.S. | $24.80 |
| Total cost | $112.08 |
Compared to the U.S. retail price of $199.99 plus tax, I saved approximately $100—nearly 50% off the regular price. The boots themselves were authentic Adidas products with original packaging, identical to those sold in authorized stores.
While my experience was overwhelmingly positive, international purchasing through agents does present certain challenges. The return process would be complicated and expensive if I received defective products. Shipping times are inevitably longer than domestic purchases, and communication relies entirely on the agent's responsiveness.