Our 7-Step Sourcing Process
A clear, structured approach we have built over years of working with clients and factories
Share Your Requirements
The process begins with you telling us what you need. You can reach out via our quote form, email, WhatsApp, or WeChat. Share as much detail as possible about your product:
- Product description, specifications, and reference images
- Target price per unit (if you have one in mind)
- Required quantity (first order and estimated annual volume)
- Quality standards and any certifications needed
- Desired delivery timeline
- Shipping destination
Do not worry if you do not have all the details figured out. We can help you define specifications based on your market requirements and budget.
Timeline: Initial consultation and requirement clarification typically takes 1-2 business days.
Supplier Search & Verification
Our sourcing team begins searching for suitable suppliers using multiple channels:
- Our own network of manufacturers we have already vetted and worked with
- Guangzhou wholesale markets and industrial zones
- B2B platforms and trade databases
- Industry contacts and referrals
We typically identify 5-10 potential suppliers, then narrow the list to 3-5 candidates through verification checks including business license review, production capability assessment, and initial pricing discussions.
You receive a supplier comparison report with our assessment of each candidate, including pricing, MOQ, lead time, and our notes.
Timeline: 3-7 business days depending on product complexity.
Sample Development
Once you have selected one or more suppliers from our shortlist, we coordinate the sample production process:
- We communicate your exact specifications to the supplier, ensuring nothing is lost in translation
- We monitor sample production and inspect the samples at the factory or at our office
- We send you detailed photos, measurements, and our assessment of sample quality
- Physical samples are shipped to you for hands-on evaluation
- If modifications are needed, we coordinate revision rounds until you are satisfied
For OEM products, this stage may include multiple prototype iterations. For standard products, a single sample round is usually sufficient.
Timeline: 5-15 business days for standard products, 2-6 weeks for OEM/custom products.
Price Negotiation & Contracts
With an approved sample in hand, we finalize the commercial terms:
- Final unit price negotiation based on your order quantity
- Payment terms (typically 30% deposit, 70% before shipment)
- Production lead time confirmation
- Quality standards and inspection procedures
- Packaging specifications and labeling requirements
- Purchase order or contract preparation
We negotiate on your behalf, using our understanding of local market pricing and our relationship with the supplier to work toward fair terms. The approved sample becomes the quality benchmark for production.
Timeline: 2-5 business days.
Production Monitoring
After the deposit is paid and production begins, we stay actively involved:
- Regular check-ins with the factory on production progress
- On-site visits during production for large or critical orders
- During-production inspection (DPI) when approximately 30% of goods are finished
- Photo and video updates shared with you via WhatsApp or email
- Immediate notification if any issues arise, with proposed solutions
This proactive monitoring catches potential problems early, when they are still easy and inexpensive to correct. You are never left wondering about the status of your order.
Timeline: Varies by product and quantity. Typically 15-45 days for standard orders.
Quality Inspection
When production is 80-100% complete and goods are packed, we perform a full pre-shipment inspection:
- Random sampling according to AQL standards (ISO 2859)
- Visual inspection against approved sample
- Dimensional measurements and weight verification
- Functional testing of all product features
- Labeling and packaging verification
- Carton drop test and packing quality check
You receive a detailed inspection report with photographs within 24 hours. If the goods pass inspection, we proceed to shipping. If defects are found, we work with the factory to sort, rework, or replace affected units before shipment.
Timeline: 1-3 business days for inspection and reporting.
Shipping & Delivery
With quality confirmed and the balance payment received by the supplier, we arrange shipment:
- Selection of the most cost-effective shipping method (sea, air, or express)
- Preparation of all export documentation
- Cargo consolidation if sourcing from multiple suppliers
- Container loading supervision for sea freight
- Shipment tracking updates until delivery
- Fulfillment center preparation and labeling if applicable
We provide you with all shipping documents, tracking numbers, and estimated arrival dates. Our job is not done until your goods arrive safely at their destination.
Timeline: 3-7 days (express), 5-10 days (air), 25-40 days (sea).
Ready to Get Started?
The first step is easy. Just tell us what you are looking for. We will handle the rest.
