The Complete W2C Terminology Dictionary

The Basics: Agents, Spreadsheets, and Links

W2C stands for "Where to Cop." It is the most fundamental term in the community. When someone asks for a W2C, they are requesting the product link so they can purchase it through an agent. The Mulebuy Spreadsheet is essentially a massive organized collection of W2C links with added metadata.

A "link" in this context is almost always a Weidian or Taobao URL. These links are not direct purchase pages for international buyers. Instead, you copy the link and paste it into your agent's order submission form. The agent then purchases the item on your behalf using their domestic Chinese payment methods.

The term "agent" refers to companies like Mulebuy, OOPBUY, or SuperBuy that provide the intermediary service. They offer a warehouse address, payment processing, QC photography, and international shipping consolidation. Without an agent, most international buyers cannot purchase from Chinese platforms at all.

QC, GL, RL, and the Inspection Process

QC is short for Quality Control. It refers to the photos taken by the agent when your item arrives at their warehouse. These photos are your inspection window before the item ships internationally. QC photos should show the item from multiple angles, including close-ups of logos, stitching, and materials.

GL means "Green Light." When you GL an item, you are telling the agent that the QC photos look acceptable and they should proceed with international shipping. Once GLed, the item is packed into your haul and sent out. Reversing a GL is difficult and usually impossible.

RL means "Red Light." This is the opposite of GL. You RL an item when the QC photos reveal defects, wrong sizing, or other issues. The agent then attempts to return or exchange the item with the seller. Most agents allow one to two free RLs per item before charging additional handling fees.

Replica Quality Tiers

1:1 is the aspirational term for a perfect replica. It suggests the item is identical to retail in every measurable way. True 1:1 replicas are rare and expensive. Most items marketed as 1:1 are actually high-tier with minor differences visible only under expert scrutiny.

"Top tier" or "high tier" refers to the best available replica of a specific item. These use premium materials, accurate construction methods, and detailed finishing. Prices are typically 60 to 80 percent of retail. Top-tier items are the go-to choice for experienced shoppers.

"Mid tier" represents the value sweet spot. Quality is noticeably better than budget but falls short of top-tier perfection. These items are perfect for daily wear where minor flaws will not be noticed. Most spreadsheet entries fall into this category.

"Budget tier" is the entry level. Materials are cheaper, construction is simpler, and accuracy is approximate. Budget items work for trends you want to try without committing serious money. They are also great for items you plan to beat up, like gym wear or work clothes.

Shipping and Logistics Terms

A "haul" is your complete order. It consists of all the items you have purchased through the agent that are ready for international shipping. Hauls can range from a single item to twenty or more pieces. Consolidating into one haul saves shipping money.

"Rehearsal shipping" is a service where the agent pre-packages your haul to give you an exact shipping quote based on the actual packed weight and dimensions. Without rehearsal, shipping quotes are estimates that can be off by 20 percent or more.

"Triangle shipping" routes your package through an intermediate country before final delivery. This helps avoid direct customs scrutiny from China to strict countries like Germany or Italy. It adds cost but significantly reduces seizure risk for high-value hauls.

"Seizure" means customs has confiscated your package. This is the worst-case scenario for any haul. Seizure rates vary by country, shipping line, and declared value. Using seizure insurance and realistic declarations reduces risk.