How To Design & Sell Custom Products Online in 2021

Tips for Starting an Online Business with Custom Products

• Creating your own branded product to sell online is a great way to start an online business

• Products can range from athletic clothing to electric toothbrushes, and even unique inventions

• There are two strategies to customizing products on alibaba.com: the RFQ method and the RTS method

• Before opening a Shopify store, it's important to follow specific steps outlined in the video

• The continuous growth in online sales offers a great opportunity for e-commerce businesses

• Alibaba.com provides access to manufacturers across the world and allows for bulk product creation and importation

• The platform is home to high-quality suppliers, manufacturers, and millions of customers

• Alibaba.com plays a crucial role in helping entrepreneurs build their dream businesses

• Creating an account on Alibaba.com is the first step to utilizing the platform's resources

• There are three strategies for finding the right supplier: the first strategy will be outlined in the video

Tips for Starting an Online Business with Custom Products

Methods for Sourcing Products on Alibaba.com

• There are three methods for sourcing products on Alibaba.com: direct search, ready to ship (RTS), and request for quotation (RFQ).

• Direct search involves manually browsing through the categories to find the desired product, contacting suppliers individually, and can be time-consuming.

• The ready to ship (RTS) method allows for low minimum order quantities, direct ordering from suppliers, fast dispatch times, and potential drop shipping.

• The request for quotation (RFQ) method involves creating a product proposal, having suppliers come to you with quotes, and allows for efficient comparison of quotes and supplier selection.

Methods for Sourcing Products on Alibaba.com

Key Points for Effective Communication with Suppliers

• When communicating with suppliers for sourcing purposes, it's important to provide them with more information than less quantity.

• Trade terms such as FOB (Free on Board) and EXW (Ex Works) are popular options, with FOB placing responsibility on the supplier for shipping and EXW mitigating the supplier's risk.

• Introducing the company you represent and portraying credibility is essential to create a long-term partnership with the supplier.

• Providing a product spec sheet with dimensions, material details, and images demonstrates credibility and seriousness about the partnership.

• Translating the communication into the supplier's relevant language using tools like Google translate can show empathy and understanding.

Key Points for Effective Communication with Suppliers

Working with International Suppliers

• When working with international suppliers, it's important to address language barriers to establish a personal connection and improve response rates.

• Certifications, such as ISO 22000 for food safety, are crucial for selling food products in different countries, so it's essential to work with suppliers capable of providing these certifications.

• Shipping and payment details, including freight options and payment terms like TT (telegraphic transfer), are important factors to consider when evaluating supplier quotes.

• Analyzing supplier profiles on platforms like alibaba.com for factors like duration on the platform and location can provide insights into their reliability and specialization.

• Upon receiving quotes from suppliers, carefully reviewing the details and initiating communication with the most promising ones is a crucial next step in the selection process.

Working with International Suppliers

Key Points for RFQ Quotations and Supplier Communication

• Submitting an RFQ is the most efficient way to find a perfect supplier.

• Over-communicating in the RFQ proposal is crucial to make your RFQ count.

• Auditing the supplier is important - look at their company info, compliance documents, and clarify payment terms.

• Building a good relationship with your supplier is essential for a mutually beneficial partnership.

Key Points for RFQ Quotations and Supplier Communication

Conclusion:

Creating a successful online business with custom products requires careful planning and effective communication with suppliers. By following the strategies and tips outlined in this guide, you can establish a thriving e-commerce venture in 2021.