In the world of Amazon FBA, managing a remote supplier relationship is quite the norm. This often-distant arrangement can be challenging, but with a few strategic steps, it’s possible to turn it into a productive alliance.
Be Proactive and Do Your Due Diligence
The buck stops with you when it comes to ensuring that you’re working with a credible and reliable supplier. Yes, even the best suppliers can have off days, and you might face quality issues or production glitches. A structured, consistent process for every order can help reduce the risk of unpleasant surprises.
Before committing to an order, verify your supplier’s location via Google Maps and validate their credibility through online searches. Ask for their quality control processes and previous experience shipping to your target market. Don’t forget to evaluate the quality of samples before placing an order.
Factory or Trading Company: Know Who You’re Dealing With
Suppliers on platforms like Alibaba often assert that they’re direct factories. But, you could end up dealing with trading companies or agents without any manufacturing infrastructure. Even during factory visits, multiple companies might claim the same facility.
The reality of direct factory contact can be murky. To ensure the quality of your order, employ a third-party inspection company to check the goods before they’re shipped.
Decoding the Price-Quality Paradox
Cheap doesn’t always mean substandard, and expensive doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality. Many factors influence the final cost, including the supplier’s size, their familiarity with your product, and more.
When comparing quotes, take time to evaluate the product quality from each supplier. Use their quotes to fuel competitive negotiation and don’t hesitate to be assertive about reducing costs.
Stay Ahead of Delays
With overseas production, delays are almost a given. Staying proactive can help you mitigate these challenges. Regular follow-ups on your order status are vital. If your order has a lead time of six weeks, check-in halfway through to make sure everything’s progressing as planned.
Your Commitment to Quality
Maintaining product quality from your supplier is entirely in your hands. It’s hard to rectify issues once the goods have been shipped. Hence, arrange for an inspection before the products leave the factory. Numerous companies offer these services, offering you peace of mind regarding the quality of your goods.
Meet Your Supplier
Visiting your supplier’s factory before placing an order can be beneficial. It’s an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and gain insights into the manufacturing process. Plus, observing their work with other clients can spark fresh ideas for your own business.
The bottom line is, supplier relationships need careful nurturing. With attention to detail, persistence, and a little bit of caution, you can build a fruitful partnership that contributes to your Amazon FBA success.
