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Ceramic Dinnerware Wholesale Guide from China
Source: Joyye
China is renowned for its enviable industrial strength and unique culture. Interestingly, ceramics are a meeting point for these two great factors.
Yes, you guessed right. Ceramics originated in China during the Tang dynasty. Consequently, China, with its great manufacturing capabilities, is arguably the best place to source ceramic dinnerware wholesale.
But, where and how do you find or source wholesale ceramic dinnerware in China? How much does it cost? Why China? Come along as we tackle all these questions and more in this comprehensive guide.
A Brief History of Ceramics in China
Ceramics, and more specifically porcelain, were developed in ancient China around 618 to 907 CE. In other words, it was a very long time ago when the Chinese communities in Changnan began to make rudimentary porcelain in kilns.
The methods and ingredients used in making the porcelain evolved through the years. Eventually, the potters settled on a porcelain recipe with kaolin, feldspar, and quartz as the key ingredients.
Admittedly, at the time, the population simply identified these minerals as rocks or earth. They, nevertheless, had the ingenuity to identify that mixing and firing them in kilns yielded beautiful and delicate but durable porcelain.
By the 18th century, the production of porcelain had grown significantly in China and potters began to sell it to European traders. This introduced porcelain to the rest of the world and is the reason why ceramics are commonly referred to as china.
Today, the town of Changnan which was the birthplace of ceramics is known as Jingdezhen. It is one of the 3 key cities with vibrant ceramic industries (more on this below).
Why Source Ceramic Dinnerware Wholesale from China?
Ceramic dinnerware and other products are now manufactured all over the globe. So, why source them from China?
Heritage and production standards.
The production of ceramics in China is a skill and tradition that has been passed down through generations. It is an integral part of the nation's culture. As such, China is home to top ceramic dinnerware manufacturers that have perfected their craft for decades.
Further, China's industrial culture offers additional benefits such as:
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High production capacity which makes it possible to source ceramic tableware in bulk.
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Established import-export networks.
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Variety due to a high number of ceramic manufacturers.
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Affordable prices.
Ceramic Dinnerware 101
Ceramic dinnerware or china are broad terms. They refer to a variety of crockery made using different types of ceramic materials. So, before you begin sourcing ceramic dinnerware, let's explore the different types that are available in the market.
Porcelain
Source: Joyye
Porcelain is a fairly strong ceramic material. It is used to make both kitchenware and tableware. It is heat-resistant but can break if you subject it to sudden changes in temperature. Porcelain pieces are prone to chipping on impact too and thus it is important to handle them with care.
Porcelain dinnerware is, however:
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Suitable for day-to-day use
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Appealing with smooth glazed finishes
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Affordable
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Versatile in terms of the style, color, and shapes you can find
Bone China
Bone china is made from the same ingredients as porcelain but it has one additional ingredient: bone ash. The bone ash is made from dried cattle bones.
Bone ash has a fortifying effect and, therefore, bone china is stronger than porcelain. It does not break or chip easily.
Dinnerware made from bone china is often very appealing. It has refined finishes and the elasticity and strength of bone china make it suitable for crafting ornate designs.
Still, just like porcelain, bone china dinnerware breaks if you do not handle it with care or subject it to rapid changes in temperature.
Stoneware
Source: Joyye
Stoneware, like other types of ceramic materials, is made from clay. The main difference, however, is that manufacturers can use more than one type of clay to make stoneware.
Stoneware clay needs to be of high quality to ensure it can handle the high heat used to bake and harden stoneware. Quality clay with a fine grain also yields stoneware dinnerware with the following properties:
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A strong durable form that is non-porous.
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A heat-resistant composition that is safe for oven and microwave use.
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Even heat transfer and fairly good heat retention.
Earthenware
Earthenware has a distinct rustic look. It is made from red clay and fired or baked at lower temperatures compared to other ceramics.
Consequently, earthenware dinnerware is more fragile than alternatives like stoneware or porcelain. It is also advisable to choose glazed earthenware to ensure it is non-porous.
How to Find Ceramic Dinnerware Suppliers in China
There are three main ways to find ceramic dinnerware wholesale suppliers in China:
Trade Fairs and Exhibitions
Source: Joyye
Manufacturers in different industries hold regular trade fairs and exhibitions in China to showcase their products and network with buyers. For ceramic tableware, in particular, consider attending:
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The Canton Fair - it is the biggest trade fair in China. It is held twice every year in spring and autumn and brings together suppliers from all over China including the ceramic dinnerware industry. Look out for the specific dates when the ceramic sector will be at the fair as it runs in phases.
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The Ceramic China Fair - this fair hosts ceramic manufacturers from China and other countries across the globe. The variety of products on display and manufacturers that you can explore during the event is unmatched.
Attending such trade fairs and exhibitions allows you to interact with different manufacturers directly and evaluate what they have to offer. It is more effective than any online meeting or touring different ceramic manufacturing regions to source dinnerware.
Sourcing Agents/Companies
Sourcing agents or companies are experts who understand the manufacturing industry in China. When you hire them, it works as follows:
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You give them a specification list of the ceramic dinnerware you require.
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The sourcing agent/company finds manufacturers or wholesale suppliers that can deliver to your specifications and within your budget.
Working with sourcing professionals can be beneficial as they understand the market better and can find suppliers quicker. Most of them also provide services like quality inspection, packaging, and shipping support, which can ease your logistical burden.
That said, vet any sourcing agent or firm carefully to confirm that they are genuine and can deliver.
Online B2B Platforms
Online business-to-business platforms in China sell goods wholesale at fair prices. You can, therefore, find and order different types of ceramic dinnerware from them and the seller will ship your order to your destination.
Examples of such platforms include:
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Global Sources
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Alibaba
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Made in China
On the flip side, while these online platforms are convenient and offer abundant variety, it takes a lot of due diligence to find a credible supplier. It is very important as well to understand platform rules and trader rankings to avoid scammers.
Research and Referrals
Source: Joyye
Referrals from retailers who have sourced ceramic tableware wholesale from China can easily connect you to credible suppliers. You can research each referral once you have a list and contact the ceramic dinnerware manufacturers that meet your requirements to get quotes or make inquiries.
This is a hands-on approach that requires due diligence. On the upside, it does not involve any middlemen and you can gradually establish a long-term partnership with a supplier. This presents advantages such as discounts, credit facilities, or opportunities to develop your brand with the manufacturer's help.
Tips on Choosing the Right Ceramic Dinnerware Supplier
You will undoubtedly be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing ceramic dinnerware wholesale suppliers. This can make the decision-making process rather daunting. Here are a few pointers that can make it a little easier.
Evaluate Supplier Reputations
Customer reviews and feedback are essential when evaluating a ceramic dinnerware supplier. Positive reviews and feedback from diverse platforms like social media or ranking sites are a green light. Negative ratings, on the other hand, are a call to tread carefully or simply look for other suppliers.
Consider Experience and Capability
How long has the supplier or manufacturer been producing ceramic dinnerware? Do they own a well-equipped factory? What is their production capacity? What are their turnaround times?
Such questions enable you to gauge whether a supplier can match your sourcing needs both now and in the future.
Compare Traders Vs. Manufacturers
Source: Joyye
Traders or trading companies in China are sellers that source products from different manufacturers and resell them either to individual buyers or retailers.
Working with them would give you access to a variety of ceramic tableware and kitchenware from different brands. However, on the downside, trader wholesale prices are higher because they mark up factory prices.
In contrast, working directly with a manufacturer may limit you to ceramic mugs, plates, or vases from one brand. Yet, on the upside, you also get access to:
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Low factory prices
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Services such as private labeling or customization
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Quality assurance
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Warranties or replacements for damaged or substandard ceramic dinnerware
Examine Quality Standards
Ceramic tableware has a fairly high demand in most consumer markets because of its beauty. Therefore, aim for a ceramic crockery supplier that maintains high standards of production and keeps innovating new designs.
Request Samples
Source: Joyye
Most ceramic tableware distributors exhibit charming product pictures in their catalogs, websites, or online trade platforms. Still, images can be deceiving, more so for items like ceramics where finishes and material quality are king.
So, consider requesting ceramic dinnerware samples before placing a wholesale order. This enables you to examine a supplier's products, their shipping efficiency, and customer service in one go. Think of it as a test run before the real purchase.
Ask About MOQs
Ask potential wholesale ceramic dinnerware suppliers if they have a least order quantity. Aim for a supplier that has a fairly low MOQ. It will allow you to place wholesale orders with some flexibility, unlike a high MOQ which will restrict you to only placing large orders.
Negotiating with Ceramic Wholesale Suppliers
Buying ceramic dinnerware wholesale gives you some negotiating power with suppliers. Some key areas to focus on include:
Price
Wholesale suppliers work on economies of scale. Therefore, the larger your ceramic tableware order, the better your discount or wholesale price should be.
If your order is not so large, you can negotiate better pricing by proving to the supplier that you plan to be a long-term customer. The allure of long-term business may convince them to offer a better bargain.
Terms of Payment
Bulk purchases usually involve large payments. Ask your dinnerware supplier about the terms of payment that they accept to understand if they align with yours. Negotiate for a compromise in case your preferred methods differ.
Consider escrow or installment payment methods if you have any doubts about a supplier. They ensure honesty on both ends of the transaction.
Legally Binding Contracts
Seek legal advice once you have negotiated all the terms with your supplier. Further, ensure that there is a legally binding contract between you and the supplier to protect the interests of both parties and guarantee fairness. You should both understand and commit to it before any transactions occur.
Ordering and Shipping
The ordering process is relatively easy once you choose a supplier and agree on terms. That said, you will need to itemize your order in very specific detail outlining:
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Quantities
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Color
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Sizes
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Shapes
When your order is ready, you can:
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Send your sourcing agent or representative to perform a quality inspection.
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Request quality inspection reports with images or even video from the supplier.
You also have different options when it comes to shipping:
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The supplier can handle the shipping process on their end and bill you for it.
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You can hire a sourcing agent/company or a shipping agent to handle your shipping. They will bill you for their services and the shipping costs.
Compare the options at hand, do your due diligence, and be sure to negotiate for the best terms. Do not overlook the benefit of working with shipping experts, especially if you are unfamiliar with import-export processes.
Additionally, keep in mind that ceramic dinnerware comprises fragile products; choose a shipping solution that you can trust to handle your consignment with care and insure your consignment accordingly.
Conclusion
The ceramic dinnerware industry in China is vibrant, innovative, and vast. So, whether you are looking for wholesale ceramic mugs, plates, vases, or dinnerware sets, there is no doubt that you will find a reliable supplier or manufacturer to meet your needs. On the other hand, you can skip the search altogether and explore our collection then reach out to us for a quote or any inquiries. We would be delighted to fulfill all your ceramic dinnerware needs.



