Shopify Procurement Strategy: Best Practices for Combining Online and Offline
As one of the important cross-border e-commerce platforms, Shopify’s procurement model is not only limited to online, but also includes offline procurement. For new sellers, using Shopify + Drop Shipping (no supply mode) is the most recommended option. This method allows new sellers to focus more time and energy on product selection and traffic without having to worry too much about inventory. and logistics issues.
Offline purchasing mode
Offline wholesale market or exhibition
Although most offline wholesale markets are dominated by middlemen, they still offer the advantage of being able to see product quality immediately. This can be a good option for sellers who want to get items quickly, especially when they are in stock in these markets, which can significantly reduce logistics time from factory to warehouse. However, for cross-border e-commerce sellers seeking long-term cooperation, industry exhibitions such as the China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) are more valuable because it brings together more upstream and downstream companies and brands in the industry.
Source factory
Working directly with source factories is considered the most ideal form of offline procurement. This model not only ensures product price and quality, but also enables joint development of new products with factories, which is especially important for large sellers. However, for small sellers, they may encounter difficulties in obtaining the same level of service due to a lack of bargaining power and insufficient order volume.
Third-party procurement
For sellers who are unable to travel to China in person, using third-party sourcing services is a viable option. By sending product pictures or 1688 supplier information to third-party companies, the latter can help buyers find the source of the goods they need and store them in the warehouse for shipment.
Online Purchasing Guide
Alibaba(1688)
As the leading B2B e-commerce platform in China, Alibaba (1688) provides a wide range of supply options. Users can search for keywords or upload images to find matching products and contact suppliers directly for more information. It is recommended that when we first cooperate, we first take samples to check the quality before deciding whether to order in bulk.
Other platforms
- Yiwugo: Focus on small commodity market
- Business Network: Mainly wholesale of children’s clothing
- Wholesaler: Specializing in foreign trade jewelry wholesale
- Four Seasons Constellation Network: an online platform for Hangzhou clothing wholesale market
- Bao Niuniu: Luggage Wholesale Mall
Online purchasing advice
No matter which platform you purchase on, you should follow the following principles to ensure transaction security and product quality:
- For first time cooperation, it is recommended to take samples for inspection first.
- Even if the sample is satisfactory, the initial purchase quantity should not be too large.
- Stock availability needs to be confirmed before placing bulk orders.
- Try to complete transactions through the platform to protect your own rights and interests.
- Adjust purchasing frequency and quantity based on sales.
To sum up, both online and offline procurement have their own advantages and disadvantages. Sellers should flexibly choose the procurement method that best suits them according to their own circumstances. For novice sellers, it is recommended to start with online purchasing and gradually explore a supply chain management method that suits you.