word of wisdom

Chinese proverb: Dig the well before you are thirsty.
Plan ahead!

simple sourcing

How to communicate effectively with a Chinese supplier. It may seem like common sense however, the Chinese speak English as their second language. The amount of emails I've had to decipher for my Chinese suppliers from their western customers is astounding.
KEEP IT SIMPLE:
- explain what you want in point form.
- send pictures
- ask quantity, delivery time, colours available, carton packing details so you can work out the shipping accurately.
- use simple terms, short words.
Rather than let you know, that they don't understand, they simply don't reply or take a guess!

Cut out the middle man in the economic downturn

Over the past few months all we've heard is economic blues. There is opportunity in every situation. Retailers are still looking for new product to keep their stores fresh...as a matter of fact we have just started selling direct to retailers ourselves. Also, in China many manufacturers are finding their orders are down...they are happier now, more than ever, to negotiate smaller quanitities. You may have to pay slightly more...but far less than buying off another wholesaler!
Definitely the case with pet supplies

How do I find a good supplier

There's a definite process here:
1. what product are you looking for?
2. log onto a China sourcing website.
- www.tradekey.com
- www.made-in-china.com
- www.alibaba.com
there are lots of smaller ones too...don't ignore these.
3. look at their product range...if it is too varied then you are probably looking at a trading company. E.g. supplier sells pet products and electronic goods...different factory required!
4. Take a look at their contact details. Do they have a separate fax and phone line? If they are the same they are probably a trading company.
5. Send them an email...how is there communication. I look for quick, informed responses. Nothing more frustrating than slow communication.
More tomorrow!

the right supplier

A useful article about how having the right supplier makes all the difference. Drop me a line and ask me what to do to prevent some of this from happening.
http://www.isnare.com/?aid=184785&ca=Business

how can I start buying from China

Firstly I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself. I am a native Australian pet products designer, now living in China. Quite the adventure really!
By launching this blog, I am attempting to dispel some of the myths about sourcing products from China.
Just from chatting to customers over the years, here’s my top 5:
1. There are many reputable Chinese suppliers that are willing to business.
2. Large order quantities: there are many suppliers willing to accept smaller quantities, particularly in this economic climate!
3. You can get great quality products from China.
4. There are ways of vetting prospective suppliers online.
5. Many suppliers now speak English