Using a sourcing agent or dropshipping agent definitely brings huge benefits to you. A good sourcing agent supports you to grow your business. They save time and money for you and also give you valuable advice. But how to tell a good sourcing agent and how to find the right one for your store. Let’s go into this article and find the answers!

Table of Contents

What is a sourcing agent?

A sourcing agent covers all stages of the procurement process for dropshippers. If you work with suppliers or manufacturers by yourself, you need to go through many tiring steps to make the jobs done. You need to do research and shortlist some good suppliers or manufacturers. You need to meet, negotiate with them and do the quality inspection. You need to negotiate the price, shipping process, and so on.

A sourcing agent not only will do all the above tasks but also will offer you more. You just need to send your requirement, they will find the best possible suppliers. They will check the quality and make the best deal for you. They will be in charge of branding and packaging and shipping for you. They also can update you on trending products or new potential products. They can do ad videos and images for you as well.

See? You will no longer worry about all the problems with the sourcing or fulfillment process. A sourcing agent will have the knowledge and network to do those tasks better than anyone. But are there any other reasons why you should use a sourcing agent? Let’s move to the next part.

Reasons why you should use a sourcing agent?

Either you are beginners or experienced dropshippers, either you own a small or large business, it’s always a good idea to use a sourcing agent. Here are the reasons why:

Expert Advice and Support

A good dropshipping agent knows the process and understands the market. They will give you professional advice and support during your work.

Sound knowledge and network

The network is critically important. With their invaluable experience in dropshipping, they know exactly where to source products and how to work with manufacturers.

Minimize the risk

A dropshipping agent would verify the products and the suppliers for you to ensure everything is in order.

Negotiate like a pro

They know how to make the best deal of price and contract terms. You can trust them to be your negotiator.

Build relationships

Your agent could also help you build a long-lasting relationship with your dropshipping partners.

How to find the best sourcing agent for your store

Now if you want to search for a sourcing agent for your store, we would like to help you by listing some of the qualities of a trustworthy souring agent:

Experience

How do you know a sourcing agent would have the knowledge and network in dropshipping? Well, you can check their proven experience in the field. Look through the agent profile, read customer reviews or case studies. You will be able to tell if they have a proven track record to understand your business and give you expert advice.

Excellent communication

Communication is important in building relationships. You can check the way they communicate with you. If it’s ok, then it’s a sign that they will have the ability to work with other partners as well.

Transparency

A good dropshipping agent will keep you in the loop and inform you of new updates constantly. They would try their best to help you obtain the best outcome and grow your business. Transparency is a key factor of professionalism and effective communication. Without transparency, there will be a high risk of conflict later on.

Highly supportive customer service team

A sourcing agent will be never a good agent without good customer care. They should have a highly supportive customer service team to help their clients immediately when a problem arises and to ensure a smooth process.

Competitive pricing

The final element is pricing. You don’t need to look for the cheapest option. But a good dropshipping agent should have a competitive fee compared to their service.