![Which China Sourcing Option Is Best For You? [Podcast]](https://qualityinspection.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/WhichChinaSourcingOptionIsBestForYouPodcast-1140x445.jpeg)
In this episode… Renaud and Adrian discuss your 4 China sourcing options: commissioned agents, trading companies, third-party service providers (like Sofeast) who provide sourcing as a paid service, and doing it yourself by going direct to manufacturers, including their pros and cons. Renaud also provides some insight into what exactly it takes to source directly from Chinese manufacturers yourself and shares some best practices for you to consider. Just hit the play button to start … [Read more...]
Why Your Ground Agent in China is NOT Helping Cut Costs
From time to time, I hear from a company that works with a ground agent in China, and they basically tell me two things: The agent did a relatively good job lining up suppliers, communicating requirements, and generally ironing out most issues. (That makes sense -- otherwise, the importer switches to another agent or to another approach.) After the initial burst, the agent feels entitled to a commission of X% and is resting on her laurels, not challenging factories, not looking for new … [Read more...]
Sourcing Agents in China: The Good, the Bad,and the Ugly
A reader recently asked me how to find good sourcing agents in China. Many dark stories involving rogue sourcing agents have shaped my opinion on this topic. My response will probably sound radical to first-time importers. The way I see it, you have two options if you need someone on the ground to source and follow new suppliers... … [Read more...]