What I Sourced: A Visual Journey
Product sourcing is both exciting and challenging. It’s an ongoing learning journey not only in the products, but also in the customers, projects, and recipients. Equally important is developing an enriching relationship with responsible factories. This post showcases the sourcing journey in pictures and my true thoughts about the products, quality, and service.
This bluetooth computer mouse makes for a great promotional item. It can be easily screenprinted, pad printed, or UV printed.
This motion sensor night light is for a repeat order. I always trust the product quality from the supplier.
These floor hockey sticks are a bit tricky to pack. It is one of those irregular shaped things which, if tossed in a box, will not only arrive damaged, but also cost a lot to ship. The factory is just too busy to pack them nicely. This is where sourcing agents can add value. I had cushions and dividers placed in to fill the empty caused by the sticks' irregular shape.
Great mini sling bag, its nylon lining is both comfortable for skin and water-proof. Doesn't mean I approve of the giant bag the factory used for shipping though. I should make the shipping requirement explicit with the factory in future.
Rushing a hammack order—Quality is consistent with the sample, having sturdy constructioin and soft, durable material. To prevent wear during shipping, the factory's cartons were replaced with stronger ones during pre-shipment inspection.
Having another check before sending these rechargeable BBQ lighters for laser-engraving.
Multitools sourced from Shandong Province. Solid quality. However, there's room for improvement in packaging. I changed it to the double reinforced cardboard boxes.
Feb 2024
Custom Giftbox – Took me a while to finalize with the client. The factory was thoughtful enough to add extra protection for the cartons!
Performance yoga blocks - Due to the low order quantity, I used a third-party decorator for logo customization. A bit time consuming but we got the job done.
I sourced these foldable wagon carts for a client. Solid quality although the cartons look beaten. Will ask the factory to reinforce them preshipping in the next order.