As an international football enthusiast living outside China, acquiring authentic club jerseys has always been challenging. When São Paulo FC released their 2023 home kit, I knew I had to get one. After researching affordable options, I discovered Orientdig, a specialized Chinese purchasing platform that facilitates global buyers to shop from Chinese e-commerce sites like TaoBao and Tmall. Here's my detailed experience navigating this service.
Understanding Orientdig's Reverse Purchasing Model
Unlike typical shopping agents, Orientdig operates on a "reverse purchasing" principle where international buyers submit product requests from Chinese platforms. Their team then sources the items, verifies authenticity, and manages international shipping. What impressed me was their bilingual interface and dedicated customer support, making the process seamless despite language barriers.
Finding the Perfect Jersey
I began by exploring TaoBao's official São Paulo FC store, where the jersey was priced at approximately ¥280 (about $40). Through Orientdig's product discovery feature, I compared multiple sellers to ensure I was getting the original Adidas-produced version. For those seeking budget-friendly options, I recommend checking this comprehensive spreadsheet
Step-by-Step Ordering Walkthrough
- Product Link Submission:
- Size/Color Specification:
- Price Verification:
- International Shipping Selection:
- Size/Color Specification:
The entire ordering interface felt intuitive, with clear cost breakdowns showing item price, service fee (8%), and shipping costs upfront.
Packaging and Delivery Timeline
After payment confirmation, Orientdig purchased the jersey within 24 hours. They provided warehouse photos showing the genuine product with tags before international shipment. The package took 12 days to reach Europe, including 3 days in Chinese customs and 5 days with DHL. The jersey arrived in pristine condition, wrapped in protective waterproof packaging.
Authenticity and Quality Verification
The São Paulo jersey exceeded expectations - proper Adidas logos, São Paulo FC embroidery, and the characteristic red/black/white stripes matched official product images. The moisture-wicking fabric felt identical to my previous stadium-purchased jerseys. Orientdig's quality control team had even included a authenticity verification card in the package.
Cost Comparison: Orientdig vs. Alternative Methods
| Purchase Method | Total Cost | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Orientdig + TaoBao | $52.80 | 12 days |
| International Retailer | $89.99 | 18 days |
| Official Club Store | $74.99 + high shipping | 21 days |
Pro Tips for First-Time Users
- Always request detailed product photos before international shipment
- Use comparative tools like the product discovery spreadsheet
- Combine multiple items in one shipment to reduce per-unit shipping costs
- Select express shipping for time-sensitive purchases despite higher cost
Final Impression
Orientdig solved a significant problem for international football fans seeking authentic merchandise directly from Chinese markets. Their reverse purchasing model eliminated the typical language and payment barriers. The São Paulo jersey procurement proved significantly cheaper than through European retailers, with acceptable delivery timeframes. For my next jersey purchase, I'm already planning to use their service to acquire the new Corinthians away kit through the same process.