Detailed explanation of SHEIN’s entry model: selection strategies for agency operation and independent operation

SHEIN, as a world-renowned fast fashion e-commerce platform, not only provides consumers with a wide variety of product choices, but also provides sellers with a flexible cooperation model. This article will introduce in detail the two main entry modes provided by the SHEIN platform – agency operation mode and independent operation mode, to help sellers make the best choice according to their own circumstances.

Agency operation model

For sellers who want to focus on product supply or lack operational experience, choosing the agency operation model will be a wise move. Under this model, sellers are only responsible for supplying goods to domestic SHEIN warehouses, and all subsequent operations will be taken over by SHEIN, including but not limited to product marketing, performance tracking, and after-sales services.

Features

• Seller Types: Covers various types such as domestic traders, factories, traditional foreign trade and cross-border sellers.
• Cooperation method: After the seller completes the product photography, the seller will promote the goods and stock them in the domestic SHEIN warehouse; SHEIN will assume the subsequent marketing and fulfillment responsibilities.
• Hot categories: shoes and bags, clothing accessories, home furnishings, beauty and personal care, and many other fields.
• Sales Area: For the global market.
• Entry threshold: Supports products whose longest side does not exceed 55 cm and weight does not exceed 3 kg; for specific thresholds, please consult the investment manager of the corresponding category.

Independent operating model

For sellers who already have a certain operating foundation and have the ability to replenish goods overseas, the independent operating model provides more autonomy. Sellers who choose this model can open a store on the SHEIN platform and manage product pricing, marketing strategies, etc. at the same time. They can also receive various support provided by the platform, such as free traffic, dedicated account managers, etc.

Features

• Seller Type: Suitable for experienced cross-border sellers, especially those who have the ability to set prices independently and replenish goods in the local market.
• Cooperation methods: Sellers have their own stores on the platform and decide the prices of their products independently.
• Hot Categories: Mainly targeting non-clothing products, such as shoes and bags, home storage, personal care, etc.
• Sales area: At this stage, it is mainly aimed at the US market.
• Entry threshold: The net weight of the product is required to be above 0.4 kg, and the ability to replenish goods in the United States is required; priority will be given to sellers with experience in the North American market.

Conclusion

Whether you choose an agency operation model or an independent operation model, SHEIN provides rich resources and support for different types of sellers. The agency operation model is more suitable for sellers who want to focus on supply chain management without worrying about marketing; while the independent operation model provides sellers with certain operational capabilities and overseas market experience an opportunity to showcase their own brands. The final choice should be based on the seller’s own business needs and development goals.

By in-depth understanding of the characteristics and requirements of these two models, sellers can better use the SHEIN platform to expand their business and achieve business goals.