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As an Amazon seller, it is essential to consider a profitable way of sourcing products. The common country to source products to sell on Amazon for an eCommerce seller is China. There are several reasons why an eCommerce seller might source their products from China including cost-effectiveness, wide product range, fast & efficient production, and strong export policies.
However, product sourcing for Amazon from China also needs to consider many other things. The Amazon standards for sellers are high, especially for those who plan to sell using Amazon FBA service.
What is an FBA Inspection and what is its significance?
An FBA Inspection is a physical examination of the inventory of an Amazon seller, conducted by Amazon or an authorized third-party inspector. The significance of the inspection is to verify that the seller’s storage and handling practices meet Amazon’s standards and to ensure the quality of the products being sold.
Failing an FBA inspection can result in the removal of a seller’s product listings, so sellers need to ensure they meet Amazon’s standards. So, you will need to establish quality control while product sourcing for Amazon from China.
Partner with a reliable supplier
You will need to choose a reputable and reliable supplier who has a good track record and positive reviews. So, how will you find the right product supplier in China that will fulfill Amazon’s standards?
- Research: Start by researching potential suppliers online and through industry connections. Check for product reviews, reliability, and consistency in delivering quality products.
- Trade shows: Attend trade shows in China to meet with suppliers and see their products in person.
- Check certifications: Make sure the supplier has relevant certifications like ISO, CE, ROHS, and others that meet Amazon’s standards.
- Contact references: Contact previous clients of the supplier and ask for their experience.
You can even use a sourcing agent in China to help you find and vet potential local suppliers. When you come across a supplier ensure to –
- Negotiate contract terms: Negotiate the terms of the contract with the supplier, including payment terms, delivery schedules, and quality control procedures.
- Ask for samples: Request samples of the product before placing an order. Samples can be of three types – Factory sample, customized sample, and production sample. You can have them tested to ensure they meet Amazon’s standards.
- Visit factory: If possible consider visiting the factory to see the production process and verify their facilities and equipment.
- Establish clear quality control standards: Establish clear quality control standards right from the start and communicate these standards with your supplier to ensure that the product meets your expectations.
- Establish how to ship goods – Decide on the ways to ship products from China to Amazon marketplace.
- Have a solid return policy – It is crucial in case the product received does not meet the expected quality standards.
- Keep detailed records: Keep detailed records of all quality control measures taken and any issues that arise to maintain accountability and ensure consistent quality control efforts.
Conduct a pre-shipment inspection
Pre-shipment inspection of imported goods is needed to ensure that the goods meet the quality, quantity, and specification requirements as agreed upon in the purchase contract. It helps to prevent any potential disputes and minimize the risk of receiving defective or non-compliant products. You can utilize a third-party inspection service to perform a comprehensive quality control pre-shipment inspection on your behalf. It is necessary for –
- Quality assurance: To ensure the products meet the agreed-upon specifications and standards.
- Avoid errors – Packaging or labeling errors can trigger chaos. A wrong barcode can ship products somewhere else, which can turn out to be costly when you try to correct the mistake.
- Reduce risks: To minimize the potential for loss due to product defects or other problems.
- Improve supplier relations: To maintain a positive relationship with the supplier by addressing any issues before shipment.
What happens if pre-shipment inspection for imported goods from China to sell on Amazon is ignored?
If a pre-shipment inspection is ignored, the following consequences may occur:
- Quality issues: The goods may not meet the required quality standards, leading to customer complaints and returns.
- Reputation damage: Ignoring pre-shipment inspection can harm the seller’s reputation and reduce customer trust.
- Legal issues: The seller may be liable for selling goods that do not meet safety or regulatory standards, leading to fines or legal action. Amazon may even ban your seller status.
- Financial loss: The seller may incur significant costs if the goods are rejected, need to be returned or destroyed, or if legal fees are incurred.
First-timers may find product sourcing for Amazon from China a challenge, but following the above steps can help you. Be wise and identify a credible supplier in China!
