Global Sourcing
By Chris Malta
Home EBiz Product Sourcing Expert
World Wide Brands
Importing products can be an overwhelming prospect for the online
seller the thought of dealing with international laws, Customs, and
tax issues is intimidating. But according to Ron Vinceslio, of
UniPacInternational.com, The pay-off is worth the effort. If you’re
even at the point of buying inventory in case lots, learning to
import is definitely something to consider as a next move.
Help Wanted If you choose to begin importing yourself, it’s important
that you do everything possible on the front end to validate that a
supplier is genuine before doing business with them. By performing
due diligence, you can minimize the risks inherent in importing. If,
however, you’re not yet ready to deal directly with overseas
manufacturers on your own, there are numerous outsourcing services
that can help you get started right:
A Strategic Global Sourcing Company, like UniPacInternational.com,
can help you, not only in finding legitimate suppliers, but in every
area of importing. They provide stateside reps who take the time to
understand your product needs. Some even offer online project
management systems that let you view the factory’s production
schedule, and interact with your overseas sourcing agent.
Additionally, these companies actually visit every factory they deal
with. To ensure quality, they place agents onsite while your goods
are in production. And they conduct competitive bidding with
manufacturers around the globe to bring you the lowest possible
manufacturing costs.
Online Overseas Wholesalers, such as GlobalSourcesDirect.com and
Chinavasion.com, buy inventory direct from overseas manufacturers and
make it available to you through their online stores. Their low
minimum orders allow you to start out with small, affordable
quantities, and increase your orders as you grow comfortable with the
processes involved.
Overseas wholesale sites let you source thousands of products at
factory direct prices, while avoiding long lead times. They offer an
easy entry point into importing, with little risk or investment.
Online Import/Export Marketplaces, like GlobalSources.com and
AliBaba.com, connect you to global product suppliers for your E-Biz.
You can make inquiries, and negotiate directly with manufacturers.
Some sites will even send you email updates regarding new supplier
products.
Some sites, like GlobalSources, verify and regularly update their
suppliers’ details. They also visit every factory they list, so you
know you’re only dealing with genuine manufacturers and suppliers.
Other sites are paid listings so while they’re great for finding
product sources, you need to be careful and take steps to ensure
those sources are legitimate.
Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders are another resource for
importing help. They can assist you in locating suppliers,
calculating duties and landing costs, and determining the most
economical shipping arrangements. They can also ensure you’re
complying with international trade laws, and resolve any Customs
problems that arise. To find a reputable broker or forwarder, check
with the trade association to which your products pertain.
When done correctly, importing can enable you to see significant cost
savings in your E-Biz. Encourages Vinceslio, To whatever degree you
need, there is help available as you learn the importing process, so
don’t let a few complications stop you from experiencing lower prices
and higher profits.
