Sourcing Agent 101: How to Find Best Sourcing Agent?
2022-03-02
The global export business has been increasing vastly in recent years. Many companies are importing high-quality products for profitable businesses.
Yet, it is not easy to source good products. You’ll need to overcome barriers like language skills to deal with the suppliers. There are also certain possible risks when importing from other countries.
In this case, sourcing agents are the alternative to sourcing by ourselves. The sourcing agent is experienced in dealing with businesses for worldwide buyers.
We’ll share how, why, and where you can find sourcing agents for your sourcing process. Let’s dive right in!
What Is a Sourcing Agent?
A sourcing agent assists global buyers in sourcing product suppliers. This sourcing specialist provides various services for international trades.
A reliable sourcing agent will save you much cost, time, and hassles down the supply chain.
You can either visit websites or get referrals from friends to find a sourcing agent.
What Does A Sourcing Agent Do?
A Sourcing agent helps you locate an ideal supplier or products you need.
You can source the products from your chosen supplier via a sourcing agent. Otherwise, you need to narrate your requirements to the sourcing agent.
The primary services of a sourcing agent can include:
- Communicating and negotiating with suppliers
- Overseeing the production process
- Updating you with the proceedings
- Arranging with the logistics company for storage and shipping
- Helping perform quality inspections
Advantages of A Great Sourcing Agent
Here are the advantages of hiring a sourcing agent:
- Strong Supplier Network
A good sourcing agent is experienced in verifying suitable suppliers. They often have a strong supplier network to source quality products.
- Cost-Saving
Professional sourcing agents can also help save money. It is worth it even after adding their service fees. These sourcing companies make a good price negotiation to get competitive prices for you.
- Time-Saving
Sourcing companies have experience in inspecting, compiling, dealing, and shipping. You can save more time down the supply chain with sourcing agents.
- One-Stop Sourcing Service
A sourcing agent handles the entire procurement process for buyers from other countries. For instance, quality inspections, factory audits, legal precedence. goods collection, customs clearance, etc.
- Better Security
A good sourcing agent help overcome possible barriers and risks. You can reduce the risks of bad suppliers, late deliveries, or inferior goods. It will vastly increase your core competitiveness.
