Since you already have a product and know by what model you will deliver it to the customer, the most responsible step arrives: selecting/managing a reliable supplier or manufacturer. Your supplier is your business partner, whether you buy products from them in advance or use them for dropshipping. The quality of the supplier directly reflects on your store's reputation.
Why
A bad supplier means delayed packages, damaged goods, and angry customers. The customer doesn't care who sent the item from China or a local warehouse — they hold your store accountable. If your supplier sends low-quality products, you will have to issue refunds and receive negative reviews. Finding a reliable supplier is what separates a one-month failed experiment from a stable business.
Steps
Selecting a supplier requires time and observation. Here is how to do it right:
Selecting Platforms for Search Start with reliable platforms. For dropshipping, AliExpress, CJdropshipping, Spocket, and other directories are popular (you can check our
dropship.gedatabase for verified suppliers). If you want to buy a large batch, Alibaba.com is one of the best options. Don't limit yourself only to the international market; look for local manufacturers or distributors in Georgia, which will minimize delivery times.Checking Supplier's Rating and History Never order from a supplier who registered yesterday. Check their ratings (minimum 4.5/5), opening date (preferably more than 1-2 years), and customer reviews. Read only the bad (1-2 star) reviews to understand what their main weak point is.
Testing Communication Message the supplier before ordering. Ask about inventory stability, exact delivery times, and return policies. If they don't answer you within 24 hours, imagine what will happen when there's a problem with a customer's order. Fast and adequate communication is critically important.
Placing a Test Order for Yourself This is a crucial step: order the product to your own address. This way you will know exactly how many days delivery actually takes (not just what they write on the site), in what condition the packaging arrives, and what the real quality of the product is. Only then continue working. Opening an online store in Georgia is easiest on Sellit, and since the platform has no sales commission, you have more financial resources left to confidently fund such test purchases.
Having a Backup Supplier Never depend on just one supplier. What happens if they run out of stock exactly when your ad is working well? Always have a 2nd and 3nd alternative found in advance.
Common Mistakes
- Hunting only for the lowest price: Often the cheapest product has the worst quality, which ultimately costs you more.
- Skipping the test order: Sending the product directly to the customer without ever having physically seen it.
- Ignoring the supplier's questions: When they ask you about specifications and you answer carelessly.
- Ignoring local suppliers: Focusing on the international market when the exact same item is also available on the local market.
Your Step Today
Go to AliExpress or the dropship.ge directory, find 3 different suppliers for the product you selected in previous lessons, and compare their ratings. Pick the best one.