h43t, are those goods identified uniquely - do they have barcodes already or they are generics that are shipped and repackaged later on? (I presume latter)
A lot of this trade is on a large enough scale (Minimum orders are often 1 container) that the buyer wants to define the packaging to match his brand, but it's usually a lot cheaper to have them to custom packaging here in China before shipment, rather than repackage later on.
The sellers are often flexible. They offer some packaging options based on what they've done before and the vendors they know, but if you want custom packaging they'll be happy to 'do it your way'.
What I am curious about is how many of them have already distribution channels and established brands so that there is a possibility to trace them through the supply chain based on the barcode (pure FMCG/CPG market). My believe is that 90% of them are "white label goods" or are re-branded as the reception point. My hope is however that 10% are becoming more and more integrated into "integrated" supply chain with no repackaging taking place, so that China/India goods are produced and immediately sold worldwide (through a wholesaler step). I would love to have a system like alibaba but more enforcing from barcoding perspective: each barcode has manufacturer prefix, based on the barcode you should be able to trace back to the manufacturer - also there might be a need to list all the resellers, wholesalers etc that are importing particular goods from the particular manufacturer in the particular target market, etc ...
Anyone who is willing to exchange thoughts on the subject feel free to contact me through email in my profile.
