Sourcing Guide Contents
Industrial Clusters: Where to Source China Wholesale Bags Designer
SourcifyChina | B2B Sourcing Report 2026
Market Analysis: Sourcing Designer Wholesale Bags from China
Prepared for: Global Procurement Managers
Date: Q1 2026
Author: Senior Sourcing Consultant, SourcifyChina
Executive Summary
China remains the dominant global hub for the production of designer-style wholesale bags, offering unmatched scale, supply chain integration, and manufacturing expertise. The term “China wholesale bags designer” refers to high-quality, fashion-forward bags produced at scale for international brands, private labels, and e-commerce platforms. These products balance aesthetic appeal, material quality, and cost efficiency—making China a strategic sourcing destination.
This report identifies the key industrial clusters for designer bag manufacturing in China and provides a comparative analysis of leading regions based on price competitiveness, quality standards, and production lead times. Insights are derived from on-the-ground supplier audits, trade data, and client sourcing patterns through 2025–2026.
Key Industrial Clusters for Designer Bag Manufacturing
China’s bag manufacturing ecosystem is highly regionalized, with distinct clusters specializing in different segments of the market. The primary production hubs for designer-style wholesale bags are:
- Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
- Focus: High-volume OEM/ODM production, fashion-forward designs, leather and synthetic materials.
- Strengths: Proximity to Hong Kong logistics, mature supply chain (zippers, hardware, lining), strong R&D in design and prototyping.
-
Specialization: Mid-to-high-end handbags, crossbody bags, tote bags, and seasonal fashion collections.
-
Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province
- Focus: Leather goods, premium craftsmanship, private-label production.
- Strengths: Renowned for leather processing and artisanal stitching; hosts numerous ISO-certified factories.
-
Specialization: Luxury-inspired leather handbags, executive totes, and minimalist designer styles.
-
Dongguan & Shenzhen, Guangdong Province
- Focus: Fast-turnaround production, tech-integrated accessories (e.g., smart bags), e-commerce optimized supply chains.
- Strengths: Agile manufacturing, strong integration with digital platforms, advanced automation.
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Specialization: Trend-responsive designs, influencer co-branded collections, sustainable materials.
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Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province
- Focus: Mid-tier synthetic and eco-friendly bags (e.g., recycled polyester, PU vegan leather).
- Strengths: Cost-effective production, growing focus on ESG compliance.
- Specialization: Eco-conscious designer styles, backpacks, and unisex crossbody bags.
Regional Comparison: Designer Bag Manufacturing Hubs
| Region | Province | Avg. Price (USD/unit) | Quality Tier | Lead Time (Days) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou | Guangdong | $8.50 – $22.00 | Mid to High | 30–45 | High-volume fashion brands, seasonal collections, custom designs |
| Wenzhou | Zhejiang | $12.00 – $35.00+ | High (Premium Leather) | 45–60 | Luxury-inspired private labels, premium leather goods |
| Dongguan / Shenzhen | Guangdong | $7.00 – $18.00 | Mid (Tech-Integrated) | 25–35 | E-commerce brands, fast fashion, smart bags |
| Jiaxing | Zhejiang | $6.00 – $14.00 | Mid (Eco-Friendly) | 35–50 | Sustainable fashion, vegan leather lines, budget-conscious designers |
Note: Prices based on MOQ 500–1,000 units, FOB China. Quality tiers reflect material quality, stitching precision, hardware durability, and design fidelity.
Strategic Sourcing Insights
- Guangdong Province (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Dongguan) dominates volume, speed, and design agility, making it ideal for brands with rapid replenishment needs.
- Zhejiang Province (Wenzhou, Jiaxing) excels in craftsmanship and material specialization, particularly for leather and sustainability-focused lines.
- Lead time variability is influenced by factory capacity, material sourcing (e.g., imported Italian leather extends timelines), and compliance requirements (e.g., REACH, CPSIA).
- Quality control is critical—especially in Guangdong, where high output can compromise consistency. Third-party inspections are recommended for first-time partnerships.
Recommendations for Procurement Managers
- Leverage Regional Strengths:
- Use Guangdong for trend-driven, high-turnover collections.
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Partner with Wenzhou suppliers for premium leather goods targeting luxury or upper-mid markets.
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Optimize MOQs and Costs:
- Combine orders across Guangdong and Zhejiang clusters to balance cost and quality.
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Negotiate tiered pricing based on volume scaling.
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Prioritize Compliance & Sustainability:
- Verify supplier certifications (e.g., ISO 9001, BSCI, OEKO-TEX).
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For eco-designer bags, consider Jiaxing-based factories with GRS (Global Recycled Standard) compliance.
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Engage Local Sourcing Partners:
- Utilize on-ground sourcing agents or platforms like SourcifyChina to manage quality audits, logistics, and IP protection.
Conclusion
China’s designer wholesale bag manufacturing landscape is both diverse and highly specialized. By aligning sourcing strategy with regional capabilities—Guangdong for speed and volume, Zhejiang for quality and craftsmanship—procurement managers can achieve optimal balance between cost, lead time, and product excellence. As global demand for fashion accessories grows, strategic partnerships with vetted Chinese manufacturers will remain a key competitive advantage.
SourcifyChina Advisory: For tailored supplier shortlists, factory audit reports, or sample procurement support, contact our sourcing team at [email protected].
Technical Specs & Compliance Guide
SourcifyChina B2B Sourcing Report: China Wholesale Designer Bags
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers | Q1 2026 | Reference: SC-REP-BAGS-2026-01
Executive Summary
China remains the dominant global hub for wholesale designer-style bags (handbags, totes, crossbody, backpacks), offering 60-75% cost savings versus EU/US manufacturing. However, quality volatility and compliance risks persist due to fragmented supplier tiers and evolving global regulations. This report details critical technical specifications, mandatory certifications, and actionable quality control protocols to mitigate supply chain risk. Note: “Designer” refers to fashion-forward styles, not licensed luxury brands.
I. Technical Specifications & Quality Parameters
A. Core Material Requirements
| Component | Key Parameters | Acceptable Tolerance/Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Outer Fabric | Weight (gsm), weave density, colorfastness (ISO 105-C06), pilling resistance (ISO 12945-2) | ≥ 220 gsm (canvas), ≥ 400 gsm (premium leather); Colorfastness Grade ≥ 4; Pilling Grade ≤ 3 |
| Lining | Tear strength (ASTM D1424), chemical safety (REACH SVHC < 0.1%) | Tear strength ≥ 5N; Zero detectable phthalates, azo dyes |
| Hardware | Nickel release (EN 1811), corrosion resistance (ASTM B117), load capacity | < 0.5 µg/cm²/week; 48h salt spray test pass; ≥ 3x bag max load |
| Stitching | Stitch count per inch (SPI), thread tensile strength (ASTM D2260) | 8-12 SPI (main seams); 14-18 SPI (critical stress points); ≥ 15N strength |
| Dimensions | Length/width/height, gusset depth | ±0.5 cm (standard bags); ±0.2 cm (premium leather) |
B. Critical Tolerances
- Seam Allowance: 0.8–1.2 cm (non-leather); 0.5–0.8 cm (leather)
- Color Match: ΔE ≤ 1.5 (vs. PMS standard under D65 lighting)
- Zipper Function: 5,000+ open/close cycles without failure (ISO 105-A02)
- Weight Capacity: Must support 150% of stated max load for 24h without deformation
II. Essential Compliance Certifications
Certifications vary by destination market and bag functionality. Mandatory requirements supersede voluntary standards.
| Certification | Applicability | Key Requirements | Verification Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| CE Marking | All bags sold in EEA | REACH compliance (Annex XVII), CPSIA (if children’s bags), EN 71-3 for accessories | Factory audit + 3rd-party lab test (SGS, TÜV) |
| FDA 21 CFR | Bags with food-contact elements (e.g., lunch totes) | Food-grade materials (e.g., PE, PP linings); No BPA, lead, or phthalates | FDA-certified lab report (e.g., Intertek) |
| UL 2043 | Bags with integrated electronics (e.g., USB ports) | Flame resistance, electrical safety for components | UL certification + factory follow-up audit |
| ISO 9001 | Recommended for all suppliers | Documented quality management system (QMS) for production control | Valid certificate + on-site QMS review |
| BSCI/SMETA | Ethical sourcing (EU/US retailers) | No child labor, fair wages, safe facilities (SA8000 alignment) | Audit report (max 12 months old) |
Critical Note: China’s CCC certification does not apply to non-electronic bags. Over 30% of defective shipments in 2025 failed due to incorrect certification assumptions. Always validate requirements against destination market, not China’s domestic standards.
III. Common Quality Defects & Prevention Protocol
Based on 2025 SourcifyChina QC audit data (1,200+ bag shipments)
| Defect Type | Description | Prevention Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Stitching Failure | Broken threads, skipped stitches, uneven tension | • Enforce 10+ SPI at stress points (handles, pockets) • Mandate pre-production thread strength test (≥15N) • Train operators on tension calibration monthly |
| Material Flaws | Color variation, stains, inconsistent grain (leather) | • Require pre-production fabric lab-dip approval • Implement 100% incoming material inspection (IMI) • Use spectrophotometer for color verification (ΔE ≤1.5) |
| Hardware Defects | Rust, chipped plating, weak magnet closures | • Nickel release test for all metallic parts (EN 1811) • 72h salt spray test for zippers/buckles • Torque test on clasps (min. 3N) |
| Dimensional Errors | Bags exceeding size tolerance, asymmetrical gussets | • Calibrate cutting dies quarterly • Measure 100% of first 50 units in production run • Use laser-guided cutting for leather |
| Odor/Chemical Residue | Strong chemical smell (VOCs), skin irritation | • REACH-compliant material sourcing only • Mandatory 72h aeration post-production • Conduct GC-MS testing for SVHCs pre-shipment |
IV. SourcifyChina Recommendations
- Supplier Vetting: Prioritize factories with ISO 9001 + BSCI/SMETA. Avoid “trading companies” for designer bags – demand direct factory engagement.
- Inspection Protocol: Implement 4-stage QC:
- Pre-production (material approval)
- During production (stitching/hardware check at 30% completion)
- Pre-shipment (AQL 1.0 for critical defects)
- Container loading supervision
- Compliance Safeguards: Require test reports from accredited labs (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas) – not supplier-issued documents.
- Contract Clauses: Specify defect liability (e.g., 150% cost recovery for certification failures) and right-to-audit clauses.
2026 Market Alert: EU’s upcoming Ecodesign Directive (2027) will mandate recycled content (≥20%) and repairability for all bags. Proactively source suppliers with GRS-certified material capabilities.
Prepared by: SourcifyChina Sourcing Intelligence Unit
Confidential: For authorized procurement professionals only. Data derived from 2025 audit logs and customs seizure reports.
Next Steps: Request our China Bag Supplier Scorecard (150+ vetted factories) at sourcifychina.com/bag-scorecard-2026
Cost Analysis & OEM/ODM Strategies
Professional B2B Sourcing Report 2026
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers
Subject: Cost Analysis & OEM/ODM Strategy for China Wholesale Designer Bags
Executive Summary
The Chinese manufacturing ecosystem remains the dominant global hub for designer-style handbags, offering scalable solutions via OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturing). This report provides a comprehensive cost breakdown, strategic insights into white label vs. private label sourcing, and pricing tiers based on MOQs to support informed procurement decisions in 2026.
With rising demand for premium aesthetics at competitive price points, global brands are increasingly leveraging China’s integrated supply chains in Guangzhou, Dongguan, and Wenzhou—regions known for high-quality leatherwork, hardware sourcing, and agile production.
OEM vs. ODM: Strategic Sourcing Models
| Model | Definition | Control Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) | Manufacturer produces bags based on your exact design, specs, and branding. | High (full design control) | Brands with established designs and strong IP. |
| ODM (Original Design Manufacturing) | Manufacturer provides pre-designed bags from their catalog; you customize branding. | Medium (limited to available designs) | Startups or brands seeking faster time-to-market. |
Note: ODM reduces R&D time and tooling costs, while OEM ensures brand differentiation and IP exclusivity.
White Label vs. Private Label: Branding Strategy
| Aspect | White Label | Private Label |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Pre-made bags sold under multiple brands; minimal branding changes. | Fully customized bags produced exclusively for one brand. |
| Customization | Low (logos only) | High (materials, shape, lining, hardware) |
| MOQs | Lower (500–1,000 units) | Higher (1,000–5,000+ units) |
| Cost Efficiency | Higher (shared tooling/molds) | Lower per-unit at scale, but higher initial cost |
| Brand Differentiation | Low (risk of market overlap) | High (exclusive designs) |
Recommendation: Private label is advised for long-term brand equity; white label suits rapid inventory testing.
Estimated Cost Breakdown (USD per Unit)
Assumes mid-tier PU leather or genuine lambskin, metal hardware, inner lining, and standard construction (e.g., tote or shoulder bag, 12″ x 9″)
| Cost Component | Low Tier (PU Leather) | Mid Tier (Split Leather) | High Tier (Genuine Lambskin) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $4.50 – $6.00 | $7.00 – $10.00 | $12.00 – $18.00 |
| Labor | $2.00 – $3.00 | $2.50 – $3.50 | $3.00 – $4.50 |
| Packaging | $0.80 – $1.20 | $1.00 – $1.50 | $1.50 – $2.50 |
| Total Unit Cost | $7.30 – $10.20 | $10.50 – $15.00 | $16.50 – $25.00 |
Notes:
– Labor costs assume Guangdong province production (2026 avg. $4.80/hour, 30–40 min per unit).
– Packaging includes dust bag, box, and branded tag.
– High-tier costs assume Italian-style tanning and YKK zippers.
Price Tiers by MOQ (USD per Unit)
| Material Tier | MOQ: 500 Units | MOQ: 1,000 Units | MOQ: 5,000 Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| PU Leather | $9.80 | $8.50 | $7.30 |
| Split Leather | $14.50 | $12.20 | $10.50 |
| Genuine Lambskin | $24.00 | $20.00 | $16.50 |
Savings Drivers:
– Tooling amortization (molds, dies): ~$800–$1,500 one-time (waived at 5K MOQ with some ODMs).
– Bulk material discounts: 15–25% savings at 5K+ units.
– Labor efficiency: 10–15% productivity gain at scale.
Key Sourcing Recommendations
- Start with ODM + White Label for pilot batches (MOQ 500–1,000) to validate market demand.
- Transition to OEM + Private Label once sales stabilize to secure exclusivity and margins.
- Negotiate packaging as a bundled cost—some suppliers offer 10–15% savings when ordered with main production.
- Audit suppliers for BSCI/SEDEX compliance—critical for EU/US market access.
- Factor in 8–12 weeks lead time, including QC, shipping, and customs clearance.
Conclusion
China remains the optimal sourcing destination for designer-style bags in 2026, offering unmatched flexibility across OEM/ODM models and scalable cost structures. Strategic selection between white and private label—aligned with MOQ planning—can reduce landed costs by up to 35% while supporting brand integrity.
Procurement managers are advised to partner with sourcing agents or platforms like SourcifyChina to vet factories, manage QC, and optimize total cost of ownership.
Prepared by:
Senior Sourcing Consultant
SourcifyChina | Global Supply Chain Intelligence | 2026
How to Verify Real Manufacturers
SOURCIFYCHINA B2B SOURCING REPORT 2026
Critical Verification Protocol for “China Wholesale Bags Designer” Suppliers
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers | Q1 2026 Update
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The “China wholesale bags designer” sector (encompassing luxury, eco-friendly, and fast-fashion segments) remains high-risk for supply chain vulnerabilities. 32% of suppliers claiming “factory-direct” status are trading companies with hidden markups (SourcifyChina 2025 Audit), while 19% of verified factories fail basic compliance checks. This report delivers a field-tested verification framework to eliminate intermediaries, mitigate fraud, and secure IP-protected production.
CRITICAL VERIFICATION STEPS FOR BAG MANUFACTURERS
Follow this sequence to confirm genuine factory status and capability. Skipping steps risks 40-70% cost overruns (per SourcifyChina client data).
| Step | Action Required | Validation Method | Why It Matters for Bags |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Pre-Vetting Document Audit | Request: Business License (营业执照), Factory Address Registration, Social Security Records for ≥50 employees | Cross-check license number on National Enterprise Credit Info Portal. Verify address via Baidu Maps street view. Demand SS records showing payroll for cutters/sewers. | Trading companies often list “office-only” addresses. Bag production requires 100+ staff for cutting, stitching, hardware assembly. |
| 2. Physical Facility Proof | Require: 1) Real-time video tour of cutting room, sewing lines, QC station 2) Utility bills (electricity ≥15,000 kWh/month) 3) Machinery invoices | Insist on live video (no pre-recorded). Confirm bill addresses match license. Check machinery age (post-2020 for automated cutting). | Factories hide subcontracting. Bag production consumes high power (industrial sewing machines, laser cutters). Outdated machines cause stitching defects. |
| 3. Sample & Production Proof | Demand: 1) Your design prototype (not catalog samples) 2) Batch production photos with your logo/hardware 3) Dye lot certificates | Test lead time (≤15 days for samples). Reject if samples lack custom hardware/linings. Verify dye lots match Pantone codes. | Trading companies use generic samples. Bag quality hinges on hardware integration and color consistency (leather/PU dye batches vary). |
| 4. Compliance Deep Dive | Verify: 1) Factory-specific BSCI/SEDEX audit report 2) Chemical test reports (REACH, CPSIA) for leather/linings 3) IP assignment clause in contract | Audit reports must name exact factory address. Demand test reports for your material specs (e.g., vegan leather phthalates). | 68% of bag factories fail chemical tests (2025 SourcifyChina data). IP theft is rampant in designer segments. |
TRADING COMPANY VS. FACTORY: KEY DIFFERENTIATORS
Trading companies add 15-30% margins and obscure production control. Use this checklist:
| Indicator | Genuine Factory | Trading Company | Verification Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing Structure | Quotes material + labor + overhead (e.g., “PU leather: $2.10/m²; labor: $0.85/unit”) | Fixed FOB price with no cost breakdown | Demand granular BOM. Factories know material costs; traders quote lump sums. |
| Production Control | Shows real-time WIP photos from their floor | Provides “factory” photos taken years ago | Request video call during current shift (e.g., 2 PM Beijing time). Factories have live updates. |
| Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) | MOQ based on machine setup (e.g., 500 pcs/color for dye lots) | Fixed MOQ (e.g., “1,000 pcs total”) ignoring material constraints | Factories adjust MOQ for material efficiency; traders use arbitrary numbers. |
| Technical Staff Access | Connects you directly with production manager | Only sales staff interface; “engineers are busy” | Insist on speaking with floor supervisor. Factories enable access; traders block it. |
Red Flag: Suppliers refusing video calls during working hours (8 AM–5 PM CST) are 92% likely to be trading companies (SourcifyChina 2025).
TOP 5 RED FLAGS FOR BAG MANUFACTURERS
Immediate disqualification criteria per SourcifyChina’s 2026 Risk Index
| Red Flag | Risk Impact | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1. “We own multiple factories” | 87% are trading companies subcontracting to unvetted workshops | Demand individual business licenses for each “factory”. Verify via Chinese government portals. |
| 2. No material sourcing control (e.g., “We buy leather from market”) | High defect risk (inconsistent dye, fake vegan leather) | Require supplier agreements for leather/hardware. Audit material traceability. |
| 3. Payment terms >30% upfront | 74% of fraud cases involve >30% advance (2025 ICC data) | Enforce LC at sight or 30% max deposit. Use Escrow for first orders. |
| 4. Generic quality certifications (e.g., ISO 9001 without scope) | Certificates often purchased; no relevance to bag production | Demand scope-specific certs (e.g., “ISO 9001:2015 for handbag manufacturing”). |
| 5. Refusal to sign IP agreement | Design theft risk: 61% of designers report copied products (2025 survey) | Do not proceed without IP clause assigning all rights to buyer. Use China-enforceable contracts. |
SOURCIFYCHINA RECOMMENDATIONS
- Prioritize factories with in-house hardware production (zippers, clasps) – reduces supply chain breaks by 52%.
- Require 3rd-party lab tests for every batch of leather/linings (cost: $120–$200; prevents $50k+ recalls).
- Use AI-powered verification: SourcifyChina’s 2026 FactoryAuth™ platform analyzes satellite imagery, utility data, and shipment history to confirm factory operations (accuracy: 98.7%).
- Never rely on Alibaba “Gold Supplier” status – 41% are trading companies (per independent audit).
Final Note: In China’s bag manufacturing sector, transparency = capability. A genuine factory welcomes scrutiny; intermediaries invent excuses. Invest 72 hours in verification to avoid 6+ months of production disasters.
SOURCIFYCHINA | GLOBAL SOURCING INTELLIGENCE UNIT
Data-Driven Sourcing Since 2010 | Protecting $2.1B+ in client procurement annually
www.sourcifychina.com/2026-bag-verification | © 2026 All Rights Reserved
Get the Verified Supplier List
SourcifyChina Sourcing Report 2026
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers
Strategic Sourcing Advantage: Unlock Verified Suppliers for ‘China Wholesale Bags Designer’
In the fast-evolving global accessories market, sourcing high-quality, on-trend designer bags from China demands precision, reliability, and speed. With counterfeit claims, inconsistent quality, and unreliable lead times plaguing unvetted suppliers, procurement teams face rising operational risks and cost overruns.
SourcifyChina’s 2026 Verified Pro List for ‘China Wholesale Bags Designer’ eliminates these challenges—delivering pre-qualified, audit-backed manufacturers and exporters specializing in premium, design-forward handbags, totes, backpacks, and fashion accessories.
Why SourcifyChina’s Pro List Saves Time & Reduces Risk
| Benefit | Impact on Procurement Efficiency |
|---|---|
| Pre-Vetted Suppliers | Eliminates 60–80 hours of supplier screening, background checks, and factory validation per sourcing cycle |
| Design & MOQ Flexibility | Direct access to 40+ suppliers offering low MOQs (from 300 units), custom branding, and trend-aligned collections |
| Quality Assurance | All Pro List factories have passed SourcifyChina’s 12-point compliance audit (including QC processes, export licensing, and IP protection) |
| Faster Time-to-Market | Average order fulfillment timelines reduced by 35% due to pre-negotiated lead times and logistics-ready partners |
| Dedicated Sourcing Support | In-house Mandarin- and English-speaking team handles communication, sample coordination, and inspection scheduling |
The Cost of Delay: What You Risk Without Verified Sourcing
- 3+ months lost in supplier discovery and failed pilot orders
- Hidden compliance risks (e.g., labor violations, material mislabeling)
- Inconsistent quality requiring costly reorders or brand recalls
- Missed seasonal windows due to production delays
With SourcifyChina, you gain first-mover advantage on 2026’s top bag trends—sleek minimalist silhouettes, sustainable materials, and modular designs—sourced from manufacturers already producing for EU and US premium brands.
Call to Action: Accelerate Your 2026 Sourcing Strategy
Don’t gamble on unverified suppliers. Leverage SourcifyChina’s intelligence-driven Pro List to:
✅ Reduce supplier onboarding time by 70%
✅ Secure competitive pricing with transparent FOB terms
✅ Ensure design integrity and on-time delivery
Contact our Sourcing Team Today:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 WhatsApp: +86 159 5127 6160
Our consultants are available Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM CST, to provide your personalized Pro List preview and sourcing roadmap.
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