You can follow few general steps like:

1. Source a reliable and trustworthy supplier- run a background check, ask for factory details, registration numbers etc.
2. Negotiate the price as low as you can- and assure them that you will order regularly not just one time.
3. When asked for advance, give them as low as you can upfront and further negotiate the terms in a way where you have to worry less.
4. Choose a logistics partner in your home country, who would arrange the pickup of goods from the chinese factory, (when you buy on EXW terms), if you buy on FOB terms, be sure to get pictures, serial numbers etc of your packaging, even better if you arrange a verifying agent to visit your supplier’s factory to check and load goods.

You can also take services of agents/ companies who can do all the above for you, to have a smooth experience for your imports.