Buying goods from Chinese Factories/alibaba.com

[dc_publius]

I was looking at some goods on alibaba.com and I would like to ship some things over to see if I can sell them profitably. The possible products are hobby related and my outlet would be ebay+local hobby clubs -- and possibly a website later on.

I am not sure how to approach individual manufacturers and what to ask for in terms of shipping arrangements, minimum shipping quantities, specs, pictures. I am concerned that shipping/delivery will be too expensive. I am familiar with general Incoterm terms (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Incoterm) but don't know which to ask for.

I am hoping that someone can share their experiences in this regard. Has anyone tried anything similar and can offer advice?