Working with distant suppliers.
WHAT MAKES IT DIFFICULT
Distance Time zones Language Different expectations Limited recourse if things go wrong
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE ORDERING
That the supplier exists and is what they claim.
HOW
Verification of registration References from other customers Third-party verification services Visiting, for substantial relationships
WHAT TO START WITH
A sample order.
WHAT TO CHECK ON SAMPLES
That they match the specification That quality is consistent across the sample
WHY ACROSS THE SAMPLE
A single perfect item proves little.
WHAT TO AGREE IN WRITING
Specification, precisely Quantity and tolerance Price and terms Delivery term and date Packing requirements Inspection arrangements What happens if goods do not conform
WHY PACKING SPECIFICALLY
Inadequate packing causes losses that are difficult to claim.
WHAT INSPECTION ARRANGEMENTS TO CONSIDER
Pre-shipment inspection by an independent party.
WHAT IT PROVIDES
Evidence of what was shipped, before payment.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT QUALITY PROBLEMS
Document them immediately, with photographs.
WHY IMMEDIATELY
Claims have deadlines and depend on evidence.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Who bears the cost of rejected goods.
WHAT TO BUILD OVER TIME
A relationship, which is what produces flexibility when you need it.
