Sourcing Approach

Our sourcing methodology combines market research, factory vetting, and product engineering:

• Identification of verified manufacturers on 1688 and Alibaba platforms
• Rigorous factory assessment including certifications and production capacity
• Negotiation of competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards
• Customization and product improvement services
• Ongoing supplier relationship management

Factory Confidentiality

Factory names, locations, contacts, and pricing are confidential and proprietary to our business. Clients agree to:

• Not attempt to contact factories directly without writtenpermission
• Not disclose factory information to competitors or third parties
• Not bypass us in future orders from the same factory
• Understand that direct factory contact may result in legal action and contractual penalties

This confidentiality is essential to maintaining our supplier relationships and ensuring you receive competitive pricing.

Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ)

Factories typically require:

• Standard Products: 100-500 units minimum
• Customized Products: 500-2000 units minimum
• Specialized/Technical Products: Up to 5000 units minimum

We negotiate MOQs on your behalf and explore consolidation options when possible. Smaller orders may incur premium pricing.

Product Sourcing Process

Step 1: Requirement Definition

• Detailed specifications and requirements from client
• Budget and timeline parameters
• Quality and certification requirements
• Volume and delivery preferences

Step 2: Factory Matching & Vetting

• Search across our verified supplier network
• Assessment of production capability and quality track record
• Verification of certifications and compliance
• Initial capability review and reference checks

Step 3: Quotation & Negotiation

• Detailed quotes including per-unit cost, MOQ, and lead time
• Negotiation of pricing, payment terms, and delivery
• Inclusion of sample production if required
• Finalization of technical specifications

Step 4: Sample Production & Approval

• Factory produces initial samples for client review
• Client provides feedback and approval or revision requests
• Iterations until client approves final sample (typically 1-3 rounds)
• Sample approval in writing before mass production

Step 5: Mass Production & QC

• Production begins after deposit receipt and sample approval
• Regular factory communication and progress updates
• In-process inspections for large orders
• Final comprehensive QC before shipment

Customization & Product Modifications

We specialize in identifying fixable product defects and sourcing improved versions. This includes:

• Analyzing competitor products and customer feedback
• Engineering improvements (materials, design, functionality)
• Branding and packaging customization
• Testing prototypes and iterations
• Production setup and ongoing supplier management

Customization services include consulting fees (typically 3-5% of product cost) and sample production costs.

Lead Times

Typical manufacturing lead times:

• Standard Products (no customization): 15-30 days
• Minor Customization: 25-40 days
• Significant Modifications: 35-60 days
• Custom/Bespoke Products: 45-90+ days

Timelines vary based on factory capacity, complexity, and market conditions. Rush orders may incur premium fees (20-50% surcharge).

Exclusivity & Non-Compete

Standard sourcing does not include exclusivity. However:

• For custom-developed products, exclusivity may be negotiated for 12-24 months
• Exclusivity agreements include additional fees (10-20% of product cost)
• Clients acknowledge we may source for non-competing buyers in different markets
• Direct factory contact during or after engagement violates exclusivity terms

Compliance & Certifications

• We help identify and arrange compliance certifications:
• China: CCC, 3C certification
• EU: CE marking, REACH, RoHS
• USA: FCC, UL, CPSIA
• Other: ISO, organic, fair-trade certifications

Clients are responsible for specifying required certifications. Certification costs are borne by the client and vary by product category. We facilitate but do not guarantee certification approval.

Sourcing Fees

Our sourcing fees vary based on services:

• Standard Sourcing: 3-7% of total product cost
• Product Modification/Engineering: 5-10% of total product cost + sample costs
• Negotiations & Logistics Coordination: Included in standard sourcing fee
• Rush Orders/Expedited Service: Additional 20-50% fee
• Compliance & Certification Support: 2-5% of product cost

All fees are quoted in advance and deducted from the final invoice. Transparent pricing is guaranteed.