This hipobuy tutorial is the most comprehensive visual guide available. We walk you through every screen, every button, and every decision point from opening your first spreadsheet to unboxing your delivered package.
Step 1: Opening the Spreadsheet
Hipobuy spreadsheets are typically shared as Google Sheets or Excel files. When you open one, you will see rows of products organized by category. The top row contains column headers. Most spreadsheets use filters — click the filter arrow on any column header to sort or filter products.
Pro Tip
Use Ctrl+F (Cmd+F on Mac) to search the entire spreadsheet for specific product names or batch codes. This is faster than scrolling through hundreds of rows.
Step 2: Selecting a Product
Once you find an interesting product, examine all available information in its row:
- Check the price: Is it within your budget? Remember to add agent fees (5-8%) and shipping ($15-50).
- Verify available sizes: Sizes sell out quickly. If your size is listed as "OOS" (out of stock), move on.
- Review QC photo links: Click the QC link to see real buyer photos. Look at 3-5 different QC albums to judge consistency.
- Note the seller contact: Copy the WhatsApp number or WeChat ID exactly as shown.
Step 3: Contacting the Seller
Message Template (WhatsApp/WeChat)
Size: [Your Size]
Color: [Your Color]
Do you have this in stock?
What is the total price including domestic shipping?
Thank you!
Sellers typically respond within 2-12 hours depending on time zones. If they do not respond within 24 hours, try an alternative seller for the same product.
Step 4: Payment Process
Once the seller confirms stock and total price, they will send payment instructions. Here is how each payment method works:
PayPal
Most common. Use "Goods & Services" for protection. Fees are usually 4-5% but worth the security.
Wise (TransferWise)
Lower fees than PayPal (1-2%). Good for larger orders over $200. Takes 1-2 days to arrive.
Crypto (USDT)
Instant, lowest fees. Only use with trusted sellers. No chargeback protection.
Step 5: Warehouse Arrival
After payment, the seller ships your item to the hipobuy warehouse. You will receive a domestic tracking number. This stage typically takes 2-5 days.
When your item arrives at the warehouse, the status changes to "Arrived" in your hipobuy dashboard. QC photos are taken within 24-36 hours.
Step 6: QC Inspection
This is the most critical step. Log into your dashboard and view the QC photos in full resolution. Our QC guide explains exactly what to examine.
Your Options at QC Stage:
- • Approve: Item looks good, proceed to international shipping.
- • Request More Photos: Need to see specific angles ($0.50-1 each).
- • Request Exchange: Item has defects, ask seller for replacement.
- • Return: Item is completely wrong, request refund.
Step 7: Submitting for Shipment
After QC approval, click "Submit for Shipment" in your dashboard. You will be asked to:
- Select a shipping line (see our shipping guide for recommendations).
- Enter or confirm your delivery address.
- Declare the package value (keep under $130 for safety).
- Add any special instructions (remove shoe boxes, vacuum seal, etc.).
- Pay the shipping fee.
Step 8: Tracking & Receiving
Your tracking number becomes active within 24 hours of dispatch. Use 17track.net for universal tracking. Once your package arrives, record an unboxing video from the moment you pick up the package. This protects you if anything is damaged in transit.
Conclusion
Following this hipobuy tutorial ensures a smooth first experience. The learning curve is real, but thousands of buyers successfully navigate it every day. For more help, return to the hipobuy spreadsheet home or read our beginner guide.