£ We want to help you understand the advantages, disadvantages of the different and making a supplier work for you to make your online business successful. Whether you sell on eBay, Amazon, OnBuy, your own Shopify site or one of the many other routes to market. Your success will start with the products you buy and who you purchase them from. We’re shining the spotlight here on Dropshippers
Advantages: This solution is zero touch, and there are no holding risks or costs. You can often negotiate on price and build up a good relationship with a trusted provider.
Disadvantages: You will have zero control over the stock, sending times and delivery options. Dropshippers are notoriously difficult to vett and work out if they are to be trusted.
Making a manufacturer or distributer work for you.
Always ask for samples, even if you have to pay
Take company references AND personal references
Take an initial low volume and ask for documentation on logistics and shipping
Consider using an agent who can visit and verify the factory
Where to find: Directory, Google and Alibaba. Ideally network and find a recommendation!
See the full blog series at the supplier section of the blog
