Services

While individual projects may vary in product type and goals, the sourcing process is typically comprised of the 8 following steps

form a plan

• To start the process, we meet with the client and discuss product to be sourced. Gather relevant documents and necessary information. 
• During this conversation, we discuss sourcing goals in terms of price, timeline, etc. Understand the client’s “must-haves” and pain points.

research suppliers

• Once the goals and objectives are set, we gather a list of roughly 15-20 relevant suppliers (i.e., factories) based on the fit between the product and factory.
• We perform due diligence on these suppliers and narrow it down to 2-3. Conduct in-person audit of the suppliers on the short list and select final supplier to partner with.

commission a sample

• Before making a purchase, it is important to product a sample (prototype) so that the client is able to assess the quality of the product. We work with the clients to supply the manufacturer with necessary documents to produce samples (AI files, CAD, STP, physical prototype, etc.). For new products, we often work hand-in-hand with the clients to create the relevant design files.
• We perform due diligence on these suppliers and narrow it down. When the sample (prototype) is completed, we inspect it and send the sample to the client for inspection, feedback, adjustment, and approval. Conduct in-person audit of the suppliers on the short list and select final supplier to partner with.

place the order

• Once the client is happy with the sample, we finalize order/price negotiations with the supplier. This entails negotiating the best terms for our clients on price, quantity, production time, …etc. 
• The client then pays the deposit for the order, and we ensure that the order is successfully and correctly placed with the supplier.

oversee production

• Once the client is happy with the sample, we finalize order/price negotiations with the supplier. This entails negotiating the best terms for our clients on price, quantity, production time, …etc. 
• The client then pays the deposit for the order, and we ensure that the order is successfully and correctly placed with the supplier.

inspect the final product

• Once the supplier has finished the product, we will manually/visually test and evaluate the final product, ensuring quality before shipment. 
• We typically send videos of the finished product to the client and also video call the client so that they can see the product visually before shipment.

arrange shipment + Export

• Before the shipment lands in the U.S. (or which other country the client is based in), we prepare necessary documents for importation and customs clearance (e.g., Bill of lading packing list, commercial invoice, HTS codes, etc.)
• And finally once the shipment has cleared customs, we manage and oversee ground transportation to the clients’ warehouse.  

clear customs

• Before the shipment lands in the U.S. (or which other country the client is based in), we prepare necessary documents for importation and customs clearance (e.g., Bill of lading packing list, commercial invoice, HTS codes, etc.)
• And finally once the shipment has cleared customs, we manage and oversee ground transportation to the clients’ warehouse.