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 < 10 Days Ago
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)