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Checking out a supplier on Alibaba Tips..?
 

Hello ,

I have never used Alibaba before But after looking through the the website I found many suppliers offering exactly what I need.

Can anyone please offer some tips on how I can check out a supplier as its not like Dh or aliexpress with a feedback and customer reviews system.

Many Thanks

I would start by speaking to them asking them refund policies, shipping methods, prices of items, ways of payment...normal type of questions.

You want to look for suppliers who are 'GOLD suppliers' and it will tell you what year they are in.. 4th year is usually a solid company. Also look for the company information on the pages.

Some are AUDIT checked etc. This is how I find mine anyway hope it helps

Ask them if they ship and something got seized do they reship?! (tells you 101 things about that company, instantly) ...even if you dont deal with vero see what the response is.

hdavey10 has hit the nail on the head.

Gold suppliers with some years on alibaba are the best and if you are unsure about the deal, some suppliers will use the escrow account with alibaba so they will not get paid until you receive the goods and release the money when satisfied.

Gold supplier is not a 100% safe guaranteed,besides hdavey10 mentioned,you can take a few samples order to test the quality of the items and their service.

I do agree with teedon, It's a good idea to ask for a sample order before you place a large order. If they refuse to sell you a sample order then that supplier might not be worth continuing to do business with.

Agree with Teedon 100%.

Gold supplier simply means they purchased a subscription.This does not really mean anything nor does it offer you any protection.
Many people purchase this subscription with intent to defraud.
The safest way to do business on Alibaba for a beginner is Ali Express.
When searching check in options suppliers that offer Escrow on Ali express.
By doing this Alibaba has a legal responsibility to refund you if anything goes wrong.
Only authentic suppliers offer Escrow.
Escrow means they get paid when you receive the merchandise and all is well.
Escrow funds go directly to Alibaba when purchasing through Ali express.
Trust me use this option until you get your feet wet and learn to identify the real factories.Due diligence is key.
I hope this helps.:)

i was also thinking this about alibaba and this is a valid thread. Very interesting feedback. I've messaged 20 gold aliexpress members though and none of them will give samples? What can i do