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International shoppers seeking authentic ASICS Metaspeed running shoes at factory-direct prices often face logistical challenges when purchasing from Chinese platforms like 1688. Mulebuy, a specialized Chinese sourcing and forwarding service, bridges this gap by providing foreigners with seamless access to wholesale prices. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process while introducing valuable resources like the product spreadsheet
1688.com operates as Alibaba's domestic Chinese marketplace, primarily catering to business-to-business transactions with significantly lower prices than international platforms. However, it presents substantial barriers for foreign buyers including language limitations, minimum order requirements, and domestic-only shipping policies. Mulebuy effectively eliminates these obstacles by serving as your purchasing代理, communicating with suppliers in native Chinese, consolidating shipments, and handling international logistics.
The recent popularity of ASICS Metaspeed series among running enthusiasts has created substantial price arbitrage opportunities through 1688 sourcing. Premium running shoes that retail for $250+ internationally can often be sourced at 40-60% lower prices through proper 1688 channels.
Begin by identifying legitimate ASICS Metaspeed suppliers on 1688. Cross-reference multiple sellers offering the same model and compare their transaction volumes, customer reviews, and return policies. The product spreadsheet
Register for a Mulebuy account using your email address. Once logged in, navigate to their "1688 Sourcing" section and submit the product links from your research. Include detailed specifications: model (Metaspeed Edge/Sky), colorway, size requirements, and desired quantity. Mulebuy's system will automatically calculate service fees, international shipping estimates, and provide a consolidated quotation typically within 2-6 business hours. Upon quotation approval, you'll proceed to payment through Mulebuy's secured gateway which accepts major credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. The platform maintains an escrow system where funds are released to the supplier only after you confirm successful product inspection. Maintain regular communication with your designated purchasing assistant who provides real-time updates on order status, warehouse receiving, and shipping preparation. Mulebuy's quality inspection team examines each pair upon arrival at their consolidation warehouse, checking for manufacturing defects, authenticity markers, and size accuracy. They photograph the actual items for your final confirmation before repackaging for international transit. Choose between shipping methods based on your budget and timeline: economic air freight (15-25 days), standard express (10-15 days), or premium courier (5-8 days).2. Mulebuy Account Setup and Order Placement
3. Communication and Payment Protocol
4. Quality Control and International Shipping
Seasoned buyers recommend several strategies to optimize your ASICS Metaspeed purchases. First, combine multiple items in single shipments to reduce per-unit shipping costs. Second, monitor seasonal fluctuations - prices typically drop during Chinese holiday sales and manufacturers often offer discounts on previous-generation models when new versions launch. Third, establish relationship with a consistent Mulebuy purchasing agent who becomes familiar with your preferences and quality standards.
Your total landed cost comprises the product price (quoted in CNY), domestic Chinese shipping, Mulebuy's service fee (typically 5-8%), international shipping charges, and potential import duties. For a single pair of ASICS Metaspeed Edge+, expect total costs ranging from $135-165 compared to $250+ retail prices. The complete process from order placement to delivery generally spans 2-4 weeks depending on supplier stock status and your chosen shipping method.
Purchasing ASICS Metaspeed through 1688 via Mulebuy represents a legitimate method to acquire premium running footwear at wholesale prices. While the process involves additional steps compared to conventional retail, the substantial savings justify the extended timeline for most buyers. Always begin with small test orders when evaluating new suppliers, maintain detailed communication with your Mulebuy agent, and leverage community resources like the product spreadsheet to make informed purchasing decisions. This approach ensures you receive authentic ASICS performance footwear while bypassing traditional distribution markups.