When it comes to finding a supplier for your new, internet, retail business, it is of the utmost importance that you do your research and choose well. The right drop shipper will help you provide your clients with the best customer service in terms of packaging, handling, shipping time and returns. When your customer receives a good product coupled with proper support, they will become repeat customers as well as become your best marketing tool. 

So how do you determine that the wholesale supplier you have found will offer all these benefits to you and your clients? Interview them and ask them these seven questions:

1.       Can I have a list of references?
2.       Can you send me a free (or reduced rate) sample of the items I am interested in selling?
3.       Do you offer a guarantee on your products?
4.       What is your return policy?
5.       What is your handling time?
6.       What is your drop shipping rate?
7.       Why should I choose you as my supplier?

If a drop shipper is bona fide, they should be able to pass on to you a list of contacts, including past and current customers, who are satisfied with the way the supplier conducts business.  Contact their references and ask for testimonials. These testimonials will be your first insight into how you and your clients will be treated by this supplier. You can also investigate their websites to qualify their authenticity.

Next, you need to investigate the product.  Order a sample and ask for it to be shipped just as they would ship products to your future customers. When you receive the package, consider handling and shipping time and presentation. Assess the condition of the actual product.  Make sure you feel comfortable selling this product and would stand behind it. The supplier should also be willing to guarantee the product. If your customer is not satisfied with what they receive, they will probably expect to be able to return it for a refund or exchange. Be certain the supplier's return policy is par with what you would offer or expect to receive on your own purchases. 

By using a drop shipper, you save time and money by not having to store inventory and employ labor to handle and ship your orders. Some of that savings will be lost on your drop shippers up charge. Compare the rates of at least 3 suppliers to determine whether the rate is fair. Make sure you are not talking to a middle man masquerading as a direct wholesale supplier. Lastly, and maybe most importantly, let the suppliers sell themselves. If their first concern is supplying you with the best product and service instead of being overly anxious about getting their hands on your money, you probably have found a winner.