While sourcing products from China in bulk quantity, most businesses prefer to visit a few Chinese wholesale websites like Alibaba and Global Sources. Many companies also prefer to visit Chinese trade fairs held at many different parts of the world and interview the suppliers personally.
China has evolved as the world’s factory, however, sourcing products from China is not as easy as one may think. People of the western countries may face a lot of difficulties in communicating with the suppliers of China due to language and cultural differences.
Therefore, it is very important that one should go cautiously while sourcing products in bulk quantity from China. Your reputation in the market can be at stake if you end up committing a few costly mistakes while importing from China in bulk quantity.
Therefore, it is important to know a few important mistakes that most importers may end up doing while product sourcing in bulk quantity from China.
Product selection mistakes
Many companies often make wrong judgements while sourcing seasonal products in bulk, which may become obsolete after the season is over. Sourcing cheap products or highly consumed in bulk may also face tough competition and you may not be able to sell all your products.
Selecting any large sized products in bulk can also increase shipping cost.
Supplier selection mistakes
If you select your supply from Alibaba or Global Sources then you are not sure from where the actual supply is coming from. Also, selecting a supplier based only on the basis of lowest quote can end up with quality issues.
Mass production in China
If you fail to communicate your specification well then you may end up with costly mistakes after the delivery is received. It is important to verify your sample product and until and unless you are fully satisfied, never go for mass production in China.
Communication mistakes
You cannot be rest assured by communicating only through emails as often your email may not be replied by the Chinese companies. So, it is also important to communicate through instant messaging services to confirm.
Also, you must be aware of time difference between your country and China.
Payment mistakes
It is important to avoid making payment during holidays in China, which may delay your production. It is also important to get familiarity with payment process that works in China. Learning about various taxes is also very important.
Shipping mistakes
Sea shipping costs vary based on container size. Undervaluing goods for tax evasion is risky. Avoid peak shipping times like Christmas to prevent higher prices and limited port space.
Final conclusion
Sourcing in bulk quantity from country like China needs to be planned very well to avoid various mistakes that can totally disrupt your business and reputation too. It is always better to test the water by importing a smaller quantity and get familiarized with the whole process.
It can be very smart decision if you identify any reliable and trustworthy sourcing agent in China who can make your sourcing process much easier and smooth. Maple Sourcing Ltd is an experienced sourcing company in China, which is headed by its MD Aaron Li. You may contact with him to discuss your business plan if you want to source in bulk from China.
