In Part One of this series, we talked about the logistics industryand how it was antiquated and expensive. In this blog, we will discuss the changes and improvements that will shape the industry’s upward progression. Last week, wepointed outthat freight forwarders and brokersare making it difficult to drive down the...
Here at CPG, we have been discussing the changes occurring in China sourcing and what the future may hold for the import/export industry. We also discussed the system enablers in the sourcing community. In this two-part series, we’ll switch gears and explore the logistics industry’s current situation, and provide insight...
As of late, we have been receiving a lot of inquiries from new importers and start-ups. We are finding that they are full of enthusiasm for their products, they are small but passionate and they have big ideas. Much of their success depends on good sourcing, and in China sourcing, not...
With the Canton Fair underway, many suppliers are contacting their agents and supply chain managers to ensure that the new contacts acquired at the fair are legitimate, qualified suppliers. Likewise, many of our clients often want us to verify that specific suppliers conform to their requirements. These requirements vary...
So we all agree that communication is VERY important, right? But if the key guy on the other side of the table does not speak your language, you need translation to build good rapport and develop a relationship. And that can be very tricky – especially when cultural factors muddy the...
We’ve been doing a series based on communications and how it relates to sourcing from China. A lot of seasoned importers would argue that communication is the most important quality they look for in a management company or sourcing agent managing their China supply chain. Back in the early days...
China supply chain management is all about vision and having that vision executed properly by the China team. We find that many of our clients have a structure to address the vision they have for their business. They typically do this in 2 ways: (1) Their global vision encompasses all...
If you are a first-time international buyer, it can be easy to overlook US customs. When you have good communication with your manufacturer, unexpected issues—such as your items have been refused entry or the customs tax on this container of sneakers is 48%—may not be entirely foreseeable. However, from...