One useful way to understand an OopBuy order is to follow the item rather than the buyer. Where is it at each moment, and what do you need to do to move it to the next stop? Here is the full route, stop by stop.
Stop 1: The item is a listing on our catalog
At the start, your future purchase is just a product page on oopbuyspreadsheet.site. You reach it by browsing a category, a brand page or the best finds selection.
Your job here: gather information. Look at every photo, since the detail shots further down usually show the label, seams, sole, lining or hardware. Read the options: sizes, colours and versions. Some listings offer variants that look alike but differ in detail, and it is worth working out from the photos which one you actually want. For wearable items, compare the seller's size chart with something you own.
Stop 2: The item appears on OopBuy
Click the OopBuy button on the product page and the same listing opens on OopBuy. If the item came from another source, you can paste its link into OopBuy's search bar and reach the same point.
Your job here: select the exact option you chose, confirm it against the photos, and add a note for the agent if anything could be misread. A note that refers to a specific photo or colour name is clearer than a general request.
Stop 3: The item is paid for
You add the item to your cart and pay. At this moment you are paying for the item and its domestic delivery, meaning the seller's shipment to OopBuy's warehouse. International shipping is not part of this payment.
Your job here: keep a screenshot of the order showing the option you selected. You will want it at stop five.
Stop 4: The item travels to the warehouse
OopBuy places the order with the seller, who dispatches it within China. The order status updates as the item is purchased, shipped and received.
Your job here: mostly patience. Items from different sellers often arrive at different times, so if you are building a haul, ordering everything close together helps it come together sooner.
Stop 5: The item is in the warehouse and photographed
When the item arrives, OopBuy takes warehouse photos. This is the most important stop on the route, because it is the first time you see the actual item rather than the seller's pictures.
Your job here: compare the QC photos with the listing and your screenshot. Check colour, shape, logos, tags, stitching, size and condition. If something is wrong, contact OopBuy now. Solving an issue while the item is still in China is much easier than after it has been delivered.
Stop 6: The item joins a parcel
Once every item you want to send has arrived and passed your check, the haul is complete. You select the items in your warehouse and submit them as a parcel, confirming your address and reviewing the packaging options.
Your job here: decide what packaging you need and make sure nothing is missing from the selection.
Stop 7: The parcel is assigned a line and paid for
OopBuy shows the shipping lines available for your parcel and country, each with its own price, estimates and restrictions.
Your job here: read the line notes, especially if the parcel holds electronics, batteries or liquids. Apply a coupon if one fits, check the final total and pay for international shipping.
Stop 8: The parcel is on its way to you
OopBuy packs the parcel and hands it to the carrier, and you receive a tracking number.
Your job here: follow the tracking and keep your records. Quiet periods during customs processing are normal. When the parcel arrives, compare the contents with the warehouse photos.
Our OopBuy shipping guide looks at stops six to eight in more depth.
Disclosure: OopBuy links on this page may be affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you register or order through them, at no extra cost to you. We are independent and not affiliated with OopBuy; check fees and rules on OopBuy's own site.