An online dropshipper is a company that offers a dropshipping or wholesale service via an Internet web site, most reputable drop shippers will have some form of warehouse or public store. An off line drop ship company operates exactly the same way, only they are without a web site.
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Online or offline dropshipper? |
Most traders who are using a dropshipper to fulfil their online orders are using online drop shippers, this is because it is simple to integrate the two together. For example, as if you receive your orders via a web site or an auction page, it is much easier to stay online and place your fulfilment orders with your chosen drop ship company.
Online Dropshippers, that’s the way forward right?
Yes and no, we would certainly suggest that if a wholesaler or other company wanted to maximise their dropshipping service then they should be online. However, this is mainly to their benefit as it could potentially improve their sales and customers. Being online means that it is easier to be found, since it is online traders who are out there looking for drop ship companies, then it is fair to say they have an audience. It’s that same audience that is also your competition!
A common them throughout this website is differentiation, by being different you can raise yourself above the masses and standout. That’s why we believe that an offline dropshipper could possible add more to your business than an online dropshipper.
Think about it, if all of your competition are doing the “Google Thing” searching for online drop shippers, then it is less likely they are searching offline. We’ve including some tips below about searching offline for a drop ship partner:
Look in local newspapers or telephone directories for listed wholesalers. Most will include their web site details if they have one. If they do not list one, phone them and find out more.
Don’t just target wholesalers, consider craft shops or other speciality outlets that have unique products. These are often “start up” companies that have evolved from a labour of love, they will be delighted to speak with people who would like to sell their products.
Apply to trade magazines. Often these will showcase new products and ventures, by partnering with these companies you may have access to new products first. First to market is a huge advantage, again they will also be grateful for the additional marketing and sales channel.
Remember, when contacting these companies you’re looking to market their products. This is a massive benefit to them for little or no cost. Make sure you agree how the order fulfilment process will work and if possible agree this in writing. Don’t be frightened to negotiate, without you these additional sales would not happen, at the same time counter any concerns they may have about you by describing your experience.
This article was written by Charlotte Alice specifically for UK Dropshipping Guide. Copyright is owned by UK Dropshipping Guide. If you have any questions or queries, please email here.
