Import goods from China

Has anybody had experience in ordering goods over the internet from China? What would I need to look out for? How can I tell if the company is real? What documents can I ask for to check if they really exist? Would I need to pay customs VAT and duties on imported goods from China? What items can I not purchase? If the item (couch) does not meet the EU fire, health and safety standards would it be confiscated by EU customs and Excise officials? Would I have to pay to see my item destroyed? Am thinking of setting up an export/import business. Has anybody had experience in setting up an export(supplier/manufacturer) and import (to Belgium) business from China? Please tell me your experience - good and bad. TIA.