Selling on bol.com - and online entrepreneurship in general - goes beyond just selling products online. You're building a business. And anyone building a business wants to work smart. How do you find winning products most easily? How can you buy at an advantage? How do you collaborate with your supplier in the best way possible? The answers to these questions will take your business to the next level. A sourcing agent is often the answer to these questions!
What is a sourcing agent?
A sourcing agent can also be described as a mediator or purchasing agent. This might already give you a better idea of what a sourcing agent can mean for your business. Good deals are the lifeblood of a successful business. How convenient is it to have someone on hand who's an expert at making good deals?
While most entrepreneurs have a heart for their own business and are good at 'entrepreneurship' itself, many are not naturally good at maintaining a warm relationship with their supplier. This takes time, and since most suppliers operate from abroad, there's often a language barrier as well. Although many entrepreneurs accept this, it also means opportunities are being missed.
Imagine being able to communicate with your supplier in such a good way that they develop a soft spot for you? That they're happy to think along with you about possibilities and offer extra opportunities and favorable deals? A sourcing agent specializes in finding best-selling products, closing sharp deals, and maintaining a warm relationship with the supplier, on behalf of your company.
Disadvantages of a sourcing agent
Because a sourcing agent's skills can be invaluable to your bol.com store or other e-commerce business, there are actually no disadvantages to a good sourcing agent. But then we're talking about a good sourcing agent...
The search
The biggest disadvantage of a sourcing agent is that finding a really good one is very difficult. Since such an agent often operates in countries like China and India (where most suppliers are), it's not easy to establish a connection with a good sourcing agent.
If you search online, you might think: 'I see plenty, it's not that hard, is it?' But yes, it is... There are several providers, but the reality is that not every sourcing agent is actually good at their job. So be cautious when transferring money and make sure you trust the agent.
How do you find a good sourcing agent?
Before we take you through the benefits of having a mediator by your side, first this: finding a good sourcing agent is challenging, but not impossible. Are you determined to take it to the next level? Then a sourcing agent is key!
If we can give you a tip when looking for a good sourcing agent, it's that the best and most reliable agents are often recommended through word of mouth. Have you built a network of e-commerce entrepreneurs around you? Consult them! There are always a few who can refer you or warn you about a scam.
Having trouble finding a sourcing agent with a track record? Look around on Upwork. You can often find agents with skills and reviews here. Be alert: stay vigilant.
Advantages of a sourcing agent
- Lower prices for products, shipping & paperwork – Thanks to the mediation of an agent with good communication skills, it's often possible to negotiate financial matters effectively.
- Better agreements – Think of agreements with suppliers about delivery and payment terms that are actually kept.
- Factories you won't find on Alibaba – Wouldn't it be ideal to work with a supplier that isn't on Alibaba, making it easier for you to stand out from the competition?
- Your tour guide in China, India, or wherever your supplier is – With a reliable sourcing agent by your side, you have an expert in the culture, language, and environment in your network. Are you planning a business trip? In many cases, a sourcing agent will be 100% available to help!
A good sourcing agent can make all the difference between an average and a very successful e-commerce business. Invest time in finding the right person and you'll reap the benefits.
