How to Import Floor Cleaning Machines from China: Top Suppliers, Step-by-Step Process & Buyer Tips

How to Import Floor Cleaning Machines from China

Importing floor cleaning machines (such as scrubbers, sweepers, or automatic floor cleaners) from China can be cost-effective and profitable if done right. Below is a complete guide covering where to source, recommended factories, supplier evaluation, reasons to import from China, the import process, shipping options, and important tips for beginners.

 

Where to Source Floor Cleaning Machines

🌐 Online Sourcing (Recommended)

• Alibaba / Global Trade Platforms: Easily compare multiple factories and models

• B2B Directories: Connect directly to manufacturers

• Sourcing Agents / Platforms: Help with negotiation and quality control

• Chilatshop: A sourcing platform that verifies Chinese suppliers, manages communication, quality inspections, and logistics — ideal for beginners and experienced buyers alike

📍 Offline Sourcing

• Trade Shows (e.g., cleaning equipment expos in China)

• Factory Visits
  These give you a first-hand view of production and quality, but require travel and time.

 

Top 5 Chinese Floor Cleaning Machine Manufacturers

1. Lesp Cleaning 🇨🇳

Advantages

• Specializes in industrial and commercial floor cleaning machines

• Stable quality with export experience

• OEM/ODM support available

Disadvantages

• Custom orders typically require MOQ and lead time

• Lesser known consumer brand (B2B focus)

2. Karcher (China Manufacturing) 🇨🇳

Advantages

• High engineering and performance standards

• Wide product range

• Strong international reputation

Disadvantages

• Premium pricing

• Limited customization for private labels

 

3. Tennant (China OEM Base) 🇨🇳

Advantages

• Durable, heavy-duty floor scrubbers

• Strong technology and long service life

Disadvantages

• More expensive than local Chinese brands

• OEM access may be limited

 

4. Hako (China Operations) 🇨🇳

Advantages

• Reliable machines for industrial cleaning

• Professional product lineup

Disadvantages

• Smaller product range

• Higher costs and slower delivery

 

5. Nilfisk (Manufactured in China) 🇨🇳

Advantages

• Strong performance and safety standards

• Well-established service network

Disadvantages

• High cost

• Not ideal for low-cost private label buyers

 

🔍 How to Evaluate If a Supplier Is Reliable

1️⃣ Real Factory vs Middleman

• Check if the supplier owns a manufacturing facility

• Request pictures, videos, or factory certification

• Visit in person or hire a local agent if possible

2️⃣ Export Experience

• Ask for export history

• Confirm they can handle paperwork (CI, PL, B/L)

3️⃣ Product Quality

• Ask for samples

• Compare materials, specs, and performance

4️⃣ Communication & Response

• Timely replies indicate professionalism

• Clear negotiation of MOQ, price, packaging, warranty

5️⃣ After-Sales Support

• Availability of spare parts

• Warranty terms

• Technical support

 

Why Import Floor Cleaning Machines from China?

✅ Lower Factory-Level Costs

China’s mass production keeps unit cost competitive, improving profit margins.

✅ Wide Variety of Models

From small walk-behind scrubbers to ride-on industrial machines.

✅ OEM / Private Label Capability

Many factories offer customization of logo, color, and packaging.

✅ Scalable Supply

Able to support orders from small to very large volumes without quality inconsistency.

 

📦 Step-by-Step China Import Process

1️⃣ Product & Supplier Research

• Shortlist suppliers

• Review specifications and pricing

• Check MOQ and customization options

2️⃣ Request Samples

• Verify quality

• Confirm performance and material

3️⃣ Price & Terms Negotiation

• FOB / CIF / EXW

• Payment terms (T/T, L/C, escrow)

• Lead times

4️⃣ Production & Inspection

• Confirm sample approval before mass production

• Consider third-party quality inspection

5️⃣ Shipping & Logistics

• Book shipment with freight forwarder

• Prepare customs documents

6️⃣ Customs Clearance & Delivery

• Handle import duties and taxes

• Final delivery to your warehouse or customer

 

🚢 Shipping Methods

🚚 Sea Freight

• Most cost-effective for large and heavy machines

• Longer transit times

✈ Air Freight

• Faster delivery

• Higher cost

🚢 LCL (Less-than-Container Load)

• Good for smaller orders without full container demand

 

⚠️ Tips for Beginners

🧪 Always order samples first

Avoid large orders without testing quality.

📣 Communicate clearly

Confirm all details in writing: specs, warranty, packaging, and prices.

📦 Calculate all costs

Include:

• Product cost

• Shipping cost

• Customs/duties

• Insurance

• Inland delivery

🛡 Use secure payment methods

Protect your funds by using safer payment options.

📍 Consider sourcing help

Platforms like Chilatshop can manage:

• Factory verification

• Price negotiation

• Quality control

• Shipping and documentation

 

🧠 Summary

Importing floor cleaning machines from China can be highly profitable when done correctly.
Focus on reliable suppliers, clear communication, quality verification, and competitive shipping. For beginners or growing importers, using a full-service sourcing partner like Chilatshop makes the entire process smoother and reduces risk.