The AllChinaBuy spreadsheet is the central reference document for buyers who want to navigate the alternative fashion ecosystem. If you are new to spreadsheets, the columns, codes, and abbreviations can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through every step from opening the document to placing your first filtered search. By the end, you will understand batch terminology, how to sort by category, and what the Notes column actually tells you.
Step 1: Open the Spreadsheet
Most AllChinaBuy spreadsheets are hosted on Google Sheets with view-only access. You do not need a Google account to view, but you need one to create a copy with filters enabled. The direct link is usually pinned in the r/allchinabuy subreddit or shared in community Discord servers. Be cautious of spreadsheet links from unofficial sources — always cross-reference the URL with trusted community pins.
Pro Tip
- Create your own filtered copy. Go to File > Make a Copy. This lets you sort, filter, and search without affecting the shared master sheet or losing your settings when the curator updates the original.
Step 2: Understand the Columns
While column names vary by version, most AllChinaBuy spreadsheets include a consistent core set. Learning what each column represents is the foundation of efficient searching.
Item / Product
The product name or description, sometimes with silhouette keywords
Category
Shoes, hoodies, t-shirts, jackets, pants, and more
Batch
Production batch code like PK, LJR, OG, M-batch, indicating factory source
Seller / Store
The seller name or direct store link for agent ordering
Price
Price in CNY or converted to USD, sometimes with tier indicators
Size Guide
Link to sizing chart or specific measurement notes
QC Reference
Link to community QC albums for visual verification
Notes
Curator comments, warnings, update flags, and community tips
Step 3: Use Filters Effectively
Click the filter icon on the header row to show only the categories you care about. Filter by batch code if you already know which tier you want. Sort by price to find budget options. Search by keyword using Ctrl+F for quick lookups. The real power comes from combining filters — for example, showing only "Shoes" category with batch "LJR" and price under a specific threshold.
Filtering Workflow
Enable filters
Click the funnel icon on the header row or use Data > Filter Views
Select category
Use the dropdown on the Category column to deselect "(Select All)" then pick your target
Add batch filter
Filter the Batch column to show only the tiers you trust
Keyword search
Use Ctrl+F to find specific silhouettes or colorways within your filtered view
Step 4: Read the Notes Column Carefully
The Notes column is where experienced contributors leave the most valuable information. Look for "Updated batch" flags that signal a recent factory improvement, "Size up" warnings that prevent fit disasters, "No box" shipping notes that affect your agent instructions, and "Bait and switch" seller warnings that can save you from a bad purchase. A single line in the Notes column can be more valuable than ten photos if it comes from a trusted curator.
Step 5: Cross-Check Before Buying
Never buy directly from the spreadsheet link alone. Cross-check the seller on Reddit, Discord, or a review aggregator. Look for QC albums from the last 30 days to confirm the current batch quality. A spreadsheet entry might be six months old, and the seller could have switched factories or raised prices since then. The community moves fast — your verification should too.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Avoid These Spreadsheet Errors
- Not reading the Notes column and missing a critical size warning
- Filtering by price only and ignoring batch quality tiers
- Assuming the spreadsheet is 100% current without checking the update date
- Not creating a personal copy and losing your filter settings
- Skipping the QC cross-check step because the spreadsheet entry looks detailed
Spreadsheet Shortcuts
Master these shortcuts to speed up your workflow. Ctrl+F is your friend for quick keyword searches across the entire sheet. Filter views let you save your favorite filter combinations without affecting other users. Some advanced spreadsheets use conditional formatting to color-code tiers — green for top-tier, yellow for mid, and red for budget options. Learn to read these visual cues at a glance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Google account to use the spreadsheet?
No for viewing, yes for creating a personal filtered copy. You can always view the public link without signing in.
What do batch codes like LJR and PK mean?
They refer to different factories or production runs. Each batch has different material sourcing, construction accuracy, and price points. The spreadsheet notes which batches are recommended for specific items.
Why are some spreadsheet cells blank?
Curators update entries gradually. A blank cell usually means the information has not been verified yet. Do not assume blank equals negative — it simply means unknown.
Can I request an item be added?
Some curators accept requests through Reddit threads or Discord channels. Check the spreadsheet instructions tab for the preferred request method.
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