What Is Sourcing? Strategic Sourcing Process for Beginners.

What Is Sourcing? Strategic Sourcing Process for Beginners.

If you’ve been thinking about launching a product, starting a drop shipping business, or even buying goods directly from China — you’re already standing at the door of sourcing.

In 2025 you have to know: Sourcing isn’t just for big companies anymore.

With the right steps, even a beginner can find quality products at factory prices, ship them globally, and grow a successful business.

So, what exactly is sourcing, and how do you start — Let's figure it out.

✅ What Is Sourcing? (And Why It Matters)

Sourcing means finding, evaluating, and buying products or materials from suppliers. People source products for many reasons, for example:

  • Launching a drop shipping store, starting their own brand.

  • Buying items for resale on Amazon, Shopify, TikTok Shop, or even offline

  • Making custom products or packaging

  • Or just buying in bulk for personal use at better prices

In short, sourcing helps you get better products, at better prices, with better control.

 

And most global businesses, from Apple to small Etsy sellers, source from China. Why? 

  1. China has the largest and most diverse supply chain
  2. Prices are unbeatable at scale
  3. Product categories are endless

🚀 How to Start Sourcing: Step-by-Step

Let me walk you through a beginner-friendly strategy that works whether you’re a small buyer, personal shopper, or new drop shipper.

1. Know What You Want

Before reaching out to anyone, clarify (it's important for this step):

  • What product you’re looking for (photos or examples help a lot)

  • Quantity (even just 5-50 units is okay to start)

  • Target quality or price

  • Any custom features, your market.

 

2. Choose Your Sourcing Channel

Here are the main options, like Alibaba, 1688, Aliexpress. Read this article to identity their advantages and shortages.

Best Platforms for Sourcing Products from China (for Beginners) Alibaba vs. AliExpress vs. 1688 — Which One Is Right for You?

Or choose a Sourcing Agent (like me at WhaleSourcing), with merits of

  • No communication barriers

  • More likely to get a cheaper price with local identity.

  • Save lot of money and energy to distinguish reliable suppliers 

  • Can get nice deal even if you are a beginner or individual

 

3. Request Samples or Test Orders

Always start small. Get a sample or place a test order to check product quality and confirm suppliers' quality.

     

    4. Understand Pricing and MOQs

    MOQs = Minimum Order Quantities.

    Some suppliers require 500+ pieces, but many are flexible — especially through agents or if you’re upfront about your goals.

    Be honest: “I’m testing the market. If it sells well, I’ll order more.”

    Most good suppliers will work with you.

     

    5. Secure the Right Shipping Method

    Depending on your budget, product size, you can choose:

    • ePacket / Small Parcel – cheap and okay for small orders (15–25 days)

    • Air Freight – fast, great for light to medium orders (7–12 days)

    • Sea Freight – cheapest for bulk orders (30+ days)

    • Courier (DHL, FedEx) – fastest, but most expensive (3–7 days)

     

    6. Do a Final Quality Check

    This step is often skipped — and that’s a big mistake.

    Whether it’s a custom logo, a specific color, or just the right number of units, always confirm before shipment.

    And our company helps clients inspect and photograph orders in my China warehouse. It prevents returns, refunds, and bad reviews later.

    ⚠️ Why Beginners Struggle (And How to Avoid It)

    Most new buyers face common challenges on below points:

    1. Language barriers
    2. Unclear product details
    3. Fake or low-quality suppliers
    4. Unexpected shipping delays
    5. Payment risks
    6. High MOQs

    That’s why many smart personal buyers and small businesses choose to work with a China-based sourcing agent.

    At WhaleSourcing.com, I help new buyers:

    • Find better products at lower prices

    • Communicate directly with Chinese suppliers

    • Combine multiple items into one shipment

    • Inspect every order

    • Avoid mistakes that cost time and money

    If you’re serious about starting sourcing but don’t want the headaches, feel free to message me — I’m here to make the process simple.

    Sourcing and drop shipping might sound complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

    With the right approach, tools, and support, anyone can start sourcing like a pro

    And if you need a trusted sourcing partner on the ground in China — you know where to find me.

    👉 Visit WhaleSourcing.com to get started.

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