As a European shopper, I recently discovered the world of 1688 proxy platforms like cn1688buy and 1688 spreadsheet services. I was hunting for the LV x Urs Fischer collaboration, and these platforms made it possible to order any style directly from China. I used spreadsheet discord groups to share finds and compare prices, which saved me a ton compared to local retailers. But is 1688 or similar sites more cost-effective and reliable? From my experience, 1688 proxies often offer lower prices due to direct sourcing, but you need trusted agents to avoid scams. I recommend checking reviews and using platforms with good customer support for a smoother purchase.