Shaul Debbi – Made In China: How To Source Products Directly From Asia

Sooner or later, your home retail business will likely reach a point where you’ll need to buy product directly from the manufacturer in order to get the best price. To go all the way up the supply chain may mean buying directly from Chinese manufacturers expalin Shaul Debbi

If you’re like most eBiz owners, you may feel very uncertain about the prospect. The idea of trying to locate China suppliers willing to deal in smaller quantities, fly across the world to meet with them, and make buying arrangements with them, probably seems completely overwhelming.

Upcoming Trade Shows
According Shaul Debbi, one of the best ways to locate genuine manufacturers who will work with you is to attend a China trade show.

Target Potential Suppliers
When you start walking the show floor, you’ll need to gauge which suppliers have products you’re interested in sourcing. You’re likely to find several suppliers with similar products and you can, and should, talk to all of them. It’s important to ask questions:
• What are their minimums?
• What kind of lead time do they require before they ship products?
• What packaging options do they offer?
• Can items be customized for your eBiz?

Once you’ve sorted through the suppliers and determined who you can work with, then it’s time to start the process of getting quotes and finding a freight forwarder or customs broker to help you get the products stateside. You may even want to talk to a few before you make the trip to China.

Understanding Importing
In addition to meeting with suppliers, Global Sources China Sourcing Fairs also give you the chance to learn how to source product from China and Asia via a free conference program. Explains Zapf, “Getting started is often the most challenging aspect of importing, and these conference sessions can help you get moving in the right direction.” He especially recommends the seminar “Buying from China: What New Buyers Need to Know” for first-time importers.