E-commerce is another field where you can make passive income these days, and if you are getting started with Alibaba, you will have to contact Alibaba Suppliers and make them ship items to your country (especially if you are dropshipping to Nigeria). Alibaba, the global wholesale marketplace, is a treasure trove for Nigerian entrepreneurs looking to source products directly from manufacturers.
The whole process of reaching out to suppliers and shipping items from them can be daunting for newcomers. Because of that, I have decided to write this article to guide you through the essential steps you need so as to ensure a smooth transaction and delivery to Nigeria.
When I first started e-commerce, I struggled with Alibaba suppliers. I was actually scared, and thought I would get scammed in the process. But fortunately for me, I was able to pull through and got my first item sent to Nigeria.
There are few things to put in place before you can contact Alibaba suppliers. I believe you would not just want to start chatting any supplier without having an account with them or even knowing the product which you would like to get.
So the below processes are what you need to get started.
How to contact Alibaba Suppliers
Step 1: Set Up Your Alibaba Account:
Before you get into this Alibaba of a thing, you’ll need to create an account. Sign up on Alibaba.com with your business details. Ensure your profile is complete and verified to build trust with potential suppliers. Once you complete signing up, login to your account. If there is need to verify your email address, kindly do that.
Step 2: Search for Reliable Suppliers:
Once you open Alibaba website, you will see a lot of products. Once you get a product in mind which you would like to sell, click on the product, and you will see Chat Now box. or Contact Supplier.
When you find a product you’re interested in, reach out to the supplier through Alibaba’s messaging system. Introduce yourself and your company, and be specific about your product requirements, quantity, and ask about their experience with shipping to Nigeria.
Some Suppliers may not ship directly to Nigeria, so that is why you may need a Freight agent there in China.
Personally, I have a freight agent in China, and I use them to ship items to Nigeria.
When you contact Alibaba suppliers, there are key communication tips you need to know which include:
- Be professional and concise.
- Ask about Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ).
- Inquire about sample availability.
- Discuss customisation options if needed.
What I do is to get their whatsApp contact and build relationship with them for long-term goal.
Step 3: Negotiate Prices and Terms
Talk about pricing, payment terms, lead time, and after-sale service. Don’t shy away from negotiating to get the best deal, but also be realistic about quality and cost. Do check product reviews, number of other buyers that have got this product from the supplier.
Step 4: Payment Procedures and shipping:
Alibaba offers various payment methods, including telegraphic transfer (T/T), credit card, and e-Checking. Choose a method that offers you some level of protection and is convenient for both parties. Always use Alibaba’s Trade Assurance as it offers an extra layer of security. A supplier will create for you a payment draft so you can make your payment.
Discuss shipping options with your supplier. Let them know you have an agent so they could sent your item to them. Air freight is faster but more expensive, while sea freight is cost-effective for larger shipments but takes longer. Your freight agent would give you a shipping fee which include customs clearing fee. So you do not have to bother about customs.
Step 5: Receiving Your Items:
Once your items arrive in Nigeria, your freight agent will contact you and sends it to your home address or any address you provide them. Majority of these freight agents have their operating office in Lagos.
Contacting Alibaba suppliers and shipping to Nigeria requires due diligence, clear communication, and an understanding of logistics.
