How to Recover Money From a China Supplier: 5 Steps That Work
Lost a deposit? Goods not shipped? Wrong quality? Act in the first 7–10 days for SWIFT recall, then use legal demand + CIETAC arbitration to freeze assets in China.
Recover Money: 5-Step Action Plan
| Step | Action | Timeline | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Evidence Pack | Collect PI, contract, WeChat records, bank SWIFT, videos/photos | Day 1 | Critical |
| 2. Formal Demand | Send bilingual demand letter by email + SF Express with 7-day deadline | Day 1–2 | 35% settle here |
| 3. Bank Recall | Request SWIFT recall/fraud investigation within 7–10 days | Day 1–3 | 20% if fast |
| 4. Lawyer Notice | Chinese lawyer issues legal notice + asset check in supplier’s city | Day 5–10 | 60% settle |
| 5. Freeze & Sue | File CIETAC arbitration or local court to freeze bank account | Day 15–30 | 85% recovery |
First action if supplier doesn’t deliver: check your sales contract and PI, then send written demand stating breach, refund amount, and 7–15 day deadline. Keep all payment proof.
Which Recovery Method Fits Your Case?
Paid
SWIFT recall is fastest. We contact your bank + supplier’s bank in China immediately. Act now — window closes fast.
Goods Wrong / No Show
Demand letter + factory visit. We verify business license, then lawyer notice. Most suppliers refund to avoid court.
> $10,000 Dispute
CIETAC arbitration freezes assets. Chinese courts enforce locally — suing abroad rarely works. We handle in Zhongshan/Shenzhen.
Prevent Next Time
Verify license, factory audit, never pay 100% upfront, use LC for large orders, include CIETAC clause. See How to Source Safely
Related: Quality Control
80% of disputes start with no inspection. Book pre-shipment inspection to hold payment until pass.
New 2026 Products
Source vetted winners instead: Heated Scoop • Liquid Tape • Helium
Start Your Recovery Today – Free Case Review
Send us your PI + payment proof. We reply in 3 hours.
Chinese lawyer reviews case, checks supplier assets, gives you recovery odds — free.
Care From China, Floor 2, No. 6, Hengxing Road, Guzhen Town, Zhongshan City, Guangdong 528421, CN • Rating 4.9/5 (51 reviews)