Before buying a big-ticket item, check the national spot-check notices, the 3C certification and the energy-efficiency label

High value
Evidence B
Saves money
Free
Takes minutes
No willpower

In plain words

In 2024, the state spot-checked 25250 batches of products, and 14.3% failed. E-commerce channels were worse: of 7297 batches checked, 23.5% failed, against 15.1% for physical stores. Before buying a big-ticket item, spend a few minutes checking the spot-check notices, and check whether the 3C certificate (China Compulsory Certification, 3C) is real. Where an energy-efficiency label is required, it must not be missing.

Mentioned in

When shopping online, rely on platform rules and the law, not on streamers or "good reviews"
For jewelry and jade, accept only a test report carrying the CMA mark, and check the testing body on the issuing authority's website

Translated from the Chinese original. Original book, section 5, tip 32. This section is about money and spending. It is general information, not financial or investment advice. Content may be out of date and rules differ by place. When you actually deal with an agency, a doctor or a court, follow what local officials, doctors and lawyers tell you. Disclaimer