Dropshipping services, one of the current online business ideas, can be very profitable to the business owner. But you need to be in control of your business and customers so that customer complaints about product quality and delivery delays are promptly taken care of.
Lapses concerning these aspects can lead to an erosion of your customer base and you can question yourself – is dropshipping dead. So, you should start with a dependable supplier. You should take the following steps before beginning to dropship.
- Select recommended suppliers
The first step is that you source your suppliers meticulously. Fall back on the recommendations of other people. Lists of dropshipping companies as well as free dropshipping sites are available on Internet directory sites, some of which provide reliable information while others may be shady. It is desirable to avoid the latter type.
- Verifying contact details
After you are convinced that the supplier sells the products that you wish to deal in, check the supplier’s contact details. The supplier’s website should have an email id, phone number, and postal address. Make sure that the phone number works and find out the time taken by the supplier to respond to emails.
- Checking business terms
Disputes might occur with the supplier about defective goods or failed deliveries. So, you should make sure you understand the supplier’s business terms and conditions thoroughly.
- Check web reviews
After you have shortlisted a few suppliers, you should check Internet forums for reviews and comments about them from other dropship businesses. Though resellers may not reveal much about suppliers that they have found profitable, negative reviews will definitely exist and these can help you decide.
- Team up with artists and craftsmen
Artists and craftsmen are often very creative and come up with products that have a lot of market value. Teaming up with these people can give you access to unique products at more competitive prices as compared to eBay. You can work on commission with these artists.
