Drop Shipping Tips for Start Ups

Drop shipping is the process of shipping the goods directly from the supplier to the retailers’ customers. This is being done in order to minimize stock inventory and cost like shipping and storage. However in order to be successful in this type of management, there are basic information you need to know for you to be able to familiarize yourself on how this works.

Verify the wholesale drop shipper’s credibility with government agencies that verify businesses registration. Check how long they have been in the business and if there were any complaints against them. How they handled past complaints? Are they recurring? Were they able to resolve any issues and complaints they had in the past?

Check with them how fast they could ship or fulfill ordered items. Inquire if they provide tracking number since this will help you track your package during shipment and will ensure that the item is shipped by the supplier. This information should also be provided to the customer should they ask.

If you have an ordered item, ask your drop shipper the exact delivery date since the item will be shipped directly by them. It is important that you provide extensions for expected delivery date to your customers. You need to provide this information to your customer so the customer knows what to expect.

In case of delay, it is important that you let your customer know about it so as to avoid false expectations. You also need to discuss late delivery issues with your supplier if this happens frequently. An open communication will build a lasting relationship with your supplier.

Be wary of drop shippers who asked for a fee to set up an account with them. Drop shippers do not require a fee in order to order and buy products from them.

In addition, drop shipping companies does not require a minimum order quantity. Generally, you will get discounts for bulk items. However your drop shipper should accommodate your orders regardless of quantity.

When you are dealing with a supplier for the first time, order a sample item that you can check for yourself. Since you will be dealing with the customer together with their complaints, it is important that you are sure of the quality of the products you are selling.

Lastly, it is advisable to deal with multiple drop shippers. It is better to look continuously for better deals as well as alternatives in case your drop shipper runs out of stocks for your products. If you are dealing with wholesale drop shippers you have no control over inventory so it is necessary that you have other options.