To compete in today’s promotional products marketplace, you need custom solutions at affordable price points that overseas sourcing allows.
Here’s how you can goof proof overseas orders with the right global partner and look like a hero to your client.
When all goes according to plan, orders take about 90 days from pre-production samples. Ideally, you should build in a cushion, particularly if you’re going to order on or near the Chinese New Year, which occurs in late January through mid-February, based on the Lunar-Solar Chinese calendar.
Those ordering from China at that time may experience delays because businesses shut down in observance of the holiday. As the holiday approaches, many customers try to rush orders through, though.
To goof proof your overseas order, start working with your client a minimum of 100 days in advance of the in-hand date. If you have a small order, talk with your global sourcing partner – sometimes, it’s possible to arrange air shipment in much less time.
If you ask the right questions during your client’s sign-off, there’s no need to worry. For example, make sure that you and the client:
When you work with an experienced global sourcing partner, its team ensures the sample is right before it reaches your hands. Approval is a matter of ceremony. It’s good to know, however, that if an error does occur, it’ll be caught and fixed quickly. That’s what sample approval is all about.
Work only with manufacturers that have products independently inspected so you’re sure of the quality and product safety. Manufacturers should be checked for business classifications, credit history and long-time relations. Have they been rated for working with top companies?
Tip: When you work with Fits Global Sourcing, you can be sure that it’s working on your behalf with accredited manufacturers that meet these standards.
Remember when longshore workers experienced a slow-down and West Coast ports were clogged for days? It’s an example of what can go wrong when shipping from overseas.
An experienced importer will have a plan B. For example, rerouting freight down through Canada by railroad.
Many overseas manufacturers require payment up front. Don’t do it – you’ll lose leverage. Terms that require one-third deposit up front, then one-third at shipment and one-third net 10 upon receipt of the order motivate your manufacturer.
You’ll have more control of the order outcome when final payment comes after you’re completely satisfied.
Why does onsite supervision matter? When an insurance company chose a washer toss game to bring home the idea that it would shelter customers from risk, the program almost went down the drain. Fortunately, onsite inspectors caught a printing error.
The washer’s imprint was upside-down once assembled. The mistake was caught and fixed without any consequence. The overseas manufacturer might not have noticed the error, but the onsite representative from Fits Group Global Sourcing did. The item was reprinted and shipped on time.
Fits Group Global Sourcing has decades of hands-on experience in overseas importing and manufacturing. It has a proven multi-step, goof proof process to complete every single order, providing a trouble-free import experience.
