This document provides guidance on finding and evaluating suppliers on Alibaba. It recommends searching for verified suppliers with trade assurance and filtering by keyword. Suppliers should be evaluated by requesting samples and testing products before selecting the best supplier. Key negotiations include discussing minimum order quantities, packaging options, production timelines, and requesting trade assurance for initial orders.

1. Sister company of Alibaba
Can order smaller quantities but higher price per
unit.
Site where dropshipper usually purchase their
products.
ALIBABA
ALIEXPRESS
GlobalSources.com
Supplier Sourcing
For bulk orders, usually 10 units or higher.
Majority are trading companies who can
converse in English
Includes factories from other countries like
Vietnam, India, Thailand, China, US
ThomasNet.Com
US Based Manufacturers but requires higher
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
Trade Shows
Like Canton Fair and Hong Kong Trade Fair

2. Go to Alibaba, log in to your account.
1.
2. Type the keyword of your chosen product and click search
3. Filter supplier type by clicking Verified Suppliers and Trade Assurance.
You will see a more refined search.
4. You may now start contacting a supplier via Alibaba Messenger/Chat.
5. Look for 5 suppliers and complete the Supplier Sourcing file template.
How to contact and search for
Suppliers in Alibaba

3. After receiving samples from 2-3 suppliers. Test (as in use)
and evaluate the product and choose the best supplier.
Inform supplier, be honest and
professional.
Negotiating with Supplier Guide
Sample PASS? Sample FAILED
Negotiate with the supplier
through Skype/Whatsapp/others

4. What is your MOQ for OEM?
What are your available packaging?
Can you send me sample photos?
I'd like to test the profitability of this product, can we start with 200 units? If yes, can you give
me your best price (unit + packaging)?
What is your production lead time for 200 units?
Ask for the packaging dimension and weight, how many units are there in 1 case, case
dimension and weight (These are all needed in creating shipping plan)
What is your complete factory address?
I'd like to request trade assurance for my order, please send it to my (alibaba email address).
Don't forget to send your FNSKU and carton labels to supplier.
Reminder:
When you have all the information needed, you can now create shipping plan.
Negotiating with Supplier Guide
Sample question when negotiating for best price:
After you get the best price: