The Complete Guide to Importing Gym & Fitness Products from China

Importing CrossFit Equipment from China has become one of the most popular, yet affordable tactics facility owners utilize to manage their costs. After all, China is a global manufacturer of various low-cost products, many of which are much cheaper than what’s sold in the United States.

However, not all products manufactured abroad are safe for use. And there’s no shortage of companies and scammers waiting for their next victim. To successfully import gym and fitness products from China, affiliates should learn the requirements and strategies to minimize risks and costs.

There are many things to consider and steps to take when importing CrossFit equipment from China. Check out this Complete Guide to Importing Gym and Fitness Products by NEXO to learn what they are.

What is the best way to find qualified gym & fitness product manufacturers in China?

Research is the best way to find quality and reputable gym and fitness equipment manufacturers. This information is not something that’s easily gleanable from a quick Google search. It takes time to source potential companies so you can verify their qualifications and product quality.

China is the global leader in manufactured fitness and gym goods. But there are many unscrupulous and scammy manufacturers out there as well, waiting to take advantage of novices and experts alike. 

Ask around. Find out which Chinese manufacturers your competitors use and vet them yourself. Go to trade shows to learn about the best and upcoming suppliers and the newest fitness equipment trends.

Just because you decide to cut a few corners on equipment and inventory costs doesn't mean members should have to use poorly made or functional equipment to work out. Nor should members be forced to use low-quality products with significantly limited durability than what they've become accustomed to and deserve. While searching for the best gym and fitness product manufacturers in China to get your gym supplies from, always put member and trainer safety first over savings and profits.

Of course, that doesn't mean that all consideration for affordability and cost-effectiveness should go out the window. It just means finding suitable suppliers to form a mutually rewarding relationship that you can rely on to manufacture and deliver the quality products you want at prices that work best for your situation. 

Gym & Fitness Product Regulations

Before browsing through websites and equipment products, you should learn about the laws and regulations for importing gym and fitness products from abroad. American product regulations and quality standards are not the same as China’s. Failure to comply with these regulations can mean lawsuits, lost revenue, fewer members, and many other headaches that are easily avoidable with compliance.

Non-measuring fitness equipment imported for commercial purposes must meet Physical Medicine Devices – 21 CFR 890 (FDA) guidelines. All imported products should have labels with the manufacturer, distributor, and company. They must also comply with the federal government’s safety standards. Most hand-powered and operated training equipment is fair game. 

Electronic gym and fitness equipment must also satisfy FCC Part 15. Although not necessary, many affiliates and facility owners find it beneficial to verify their Underwriter Laboratories (UL) status.

Anyone planning to source fitness clothing and gear should verify their goods comply with CA Prop 65 and federal textile regulations. Food and beverage items fall under the jurisdiction of the FDA. Avoid importing items that lack FDA approval in the United States.

In addition to ensuring your items meet federal government and FDA foreign manufacturer product labeling, safety, and import criteria, you’ll need to complete and submit the proper documents and pay any associated import fees to avoid fines and keep your goods from being rejected or seized by customs. Import fees are outlined in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Because these guidelines often change, additional compliance requirements for fitness products imported from China may be added. It is in your best interest to know what they are to prevent hassles, customs rejections, and money loss.

How many units do I need to order?

Most foreign suppliers have a minimum order quantity or MOQ that customers must meet to purchase their goods. It’s essential to consider the number of units you need before you start calculating the MOQ. It’s always a good idea to start with the minimum until you feel comfortable and confident the supplier is capable and the best at delivering quality equipment on time.

The downside of sticking with the bare minimum is that higher import costs could negate any savings you’re expecting. Sometimes, these fees increase the overall price of the equipment and undermine the point of importing from another country like China.

Once you feel confident about your choice of manufacturer, you should consider ordering more than the MOQ to gain greater savings per unit and lower your shipping and import fees. We recommend ordering enough supplies to last several months at a time if possible.

What is the best way to ensure quality?

Many confuse the designation ‘Made in China‘ with junk and low quality. Don't let these stigmas keep you from taking advantage of them and their savings. Thoroughly vet manufacturers that appear to offer quality products at rock bottom prices. Some are gimmicks and scams, and others provide cheaply made goods that don't meet the specifications just to steal money. Still, there are many trustworthy Chinese suppliers of low-cost fitness supplies to choose from.

Low prices don't always equate to poor quality or cheaply made products. But, if you don't triple-check your choice of supplier, and their policies, business practices, and products, you only have yourself to blame for poor purchase decisions, and no one wants that. You get what you pay for, so make sure every dime you spend importing gym and fitness products from China counts.

For more information on how to maximize your gym profits with products imported from China or to learn if there are any insurance stipulations on imported fitness and gym products, contact NEXO at 310-361-4225 for a policy review and assistance.