Visiting a Supplier

I had a very unique opportunity a few months ago.  My sister was getting married out of state and we were traveling for the event.  As brother-of-the-bride, I really didn’t have much to do until the real events started, but we were there a day early as my wife was involved also.

So with nothing to do for virtually an entire day, I whipped out the map and realized that one of my drop ship suppliers was headquartered only about 40 minutes drive away.  ROAD TRIP!

So why did I do this? Actually, it’s very common for a retail buyer to visit a supplier.  But, if is fairly UNCOMMON for a drop shop seller to visit a vendor.  This is because we typically don’t have travel budgets, and since most of us are part-timers, we’ve got other things to do.  But, when the opportunity arises, I highly recommend it.  While the details of my visit would be long and boring, there are reasons and lessons to be learned by a supplier visit.

1.  I saw the products. Do you have any idea how many items I’ve sold from this manufacturer and never saw a piece in person?  I’ve now held them in my hand.  I know what they look like, i know the quality, and I can now answer questions about the products without having to contact the company.

2.  I got a nice tour of the facility and saw the orders being processed.  Believe it or not, having a good understanding of how your suppliers work can greatly improve the customer service you can offer to your customers.

3.  I met with my main contact, and the big wigs. These folks deal with their products every day, they know how to sell them, and know what works and what doesn’t.  Hearing their sales strategies, and constructive advice was invaluable.

Now, I’m not suggesting you run out and visit all your vendors.  It simply doesn’t make sense, unless they happen to be really close by, or you’re really well funded.  But if the opportunity arises, as it did for me, go for it.  The experience can be invaluable.

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