By Leon Yu 

Many articles here are talking about how to find good suppliers, but ARE YOU A GOOD BUYER?

China is a big country, but in business it is a small world, worldwide. If you cooperate with multiple suppliers, don’t forget that Mr. A might know Mr. B also. If Mr. A thinks you are bad business, he might tell Mr. B., spelling damage for your operation. Looking to avoid such a situation? Here are a few tips on how to be a good buyer.

1. Communicate with the supplier by email, fax, telephone, IM: nowadays people tend to use email for most business communications, but let your supplier hear your voice and see your handwriting, it will make them feel more confident.

2. Send your supplier enough information on your requirements before they start sampling.

3. Pay a sampling charge for your products. Generally – in return – the supplier will pay for the delivery charges. If the sample is not ideal, ask the supplier if he is able to produce according your requirement or not, if not, send him an email to express your thanking.

4. Discuss the production schedule before placing an order – suppliers do not take care of your order only, they surely have many clients. Knowing their “high season” can help you send them an alert at early stage and maintain good quality products.

5. Visit your supplier at least once a year or inform them how you are doing.

6. Quality inspection before loading container is very important – make sure your agent or representative has checked the products before packing. It is in the interest of the supplier as well. By controlling quality you are helping both.

7. Check product quality within one week after a container hits the destination port, if any problems, contact the suppliers immediately listing container#, ctn#, errors (better send pictures of defects), and your compensation suggestions.

8. Finally. Pay your supplier on time. If you have difficulties, send them a payment schedule and strictly follow your schedule – nobody likes to get nervous.

Leon Yu