So, you want to sell online?
Creating your own eCommerce online store gets easier these days with the help of service providers or even with some DIY solutions. Now you’ve got this problem sorted out but, what should you sell online?
If you’ve already partnered with a supplier to source for your products, good as you can get started really quick. What if you are just starting out a new eCommerce store but have no product to sell?
Let’s see how you can source for items to sell online.
1. Look for local supplier to sell online
The easiest and most direct way of sourcing your products should be finding a supplier near you. Search for a local directory website and ask around if there’s any suppliers nearby that can supply you with stocks. Working with a local supplier can ensure your communication is smooth and when you face any problems, it’s easier to sort it out too as they are just nearby.
There’s cons on this method though. Depending on where you stay, the prices may not be so attractive.
2. Follow your heart, or hobby
Most established online sellers started with this method. If you’re a die hard fan for a franchise, say Star Wars, you can start by selling Star Wars merchandises. If you love sports and know your equipment pretty well, you can consider to sell sports equipment.
If you really want to do sell something that you always wanted to, go ahead and source for it.
3. Alibaba
Alibaba.com is the largest e-commerce platform in China and also the fastest growing e-commerce platform in the world. In Alibaba website you can find abundant of suppliers with different products, all source directly from China.
Communications may be difficult if you do not understand Chinese. However, when it comes to prices, you know China suppliers are able to produce goods in extremely low prices. With this, you can earn a great margin of profit when selling it.
4. Marketplace’s categories
If you are flexible with your products offering, why not visit some of the most popular marketplaces now like Lazada, 11Street or all time popular Lelong? Browse for the popular categories and see if you want to fit in one of those.
A word of advice though, the more popular the category is, the more competitors you are going to have, so make your own judgement.
5. Dropshipping (Look for providers who sell online)
It’s not necessary to carry your own products or stock up inventory. Dropshipping is a well known method for doing eCommerce since years ago.
Are you obsess with the products from a specific eCommerce store? Contact them and see if they offer dropship service. If they are willing to work with you, you can then create your own eCommerce store, promote their products and once you get an order, pass it to them to make the delivery.
This method is recommended for new online seller with a small or no budget to start up with.
6. Travel
Everyone loves travel….well no, but most people do. Instead of just enjoying the food and scenery while you are travelling overseas, why not try to talk with some of the local businessmen, network around and you may find yourself a good supplier.
China, Thailand, Taiwan and many more countries which have good manufacturing history of producing different variety of goods. If you get to know some of the suppliers, you can bring their products back and sell online to the rest of the world!
Sourcing can be easy or tough, depending on the product you are looking to sell. Make sure you evaluate the supplier you are going to deal with, and establish a good relationship so that your business can sail long and far.
Sanz Teoh
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