How to Find Reliable Suppliers for Your Amazon FBA Business?
Written by Shahid R. KhanReviewed by Andrew L. Adler & Jonathan M. Adler
Finding the right supplier is one of the most critical steps in building a successful Amazon FBA business.
The quality, pricing, and reliability of your supplier can directly impact your profit margins, customer satisfaction, and overall business growth.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to identify, vet, and negotiate with trustworthy suppliers to build a strong and sustainable supply chain for your Amazon business.
Should You Choose Domestic or Overseas Suppliers?
Before searching for suppliers, decide whether a domestic or overseas supplier is the best fit for your business.
What Are the Benefits of Domestic Suppliers?
✅ Faster shipping (1-2 weeks vs. 1-3 months for overseas)
✅ Easier communication (same language and time zone)
✅ Higher manufacturing and quality standards
✅ Lower risk of intellectual property theft
✅ Simplified shipping and customs process
What Are the Downsides of Domestic Suppliers?
❌ Higher production costs (often 2-3x more expensive)
❌ Limited product variety and customization
❌ Higher minimum order quantities (MOQs) in some industries
What Are the Benefits of Overseas Suppliers?
✅ Lower manufacturing costs (higher profit margins)
✅ Greater product variety and customization
✅ Lower MOQs in many cases
✅ Specialized expertise in certain product categories
What Are the Downsides of Overseas Suppliers?
❌ Longer lead times (60-90 days including shipping)
❌ Communication challenges (time zones, language barriers)
❌ More complex logistics and customs procedures
❌ Higher quality control requirements
Which Supplier Location Is Right for You?
- If you prioritize quality and speed, go with domestic suppliers.
- If you prioritize cost and scalability, go with overseas suppliers.
- Many Amazon sellers start with overseas suppliers to maximize profits, then transition to domestic suppliers as they scale.
Where to Find Reliable Amazon FBA Suppliers
Best Platforms for Finding Overseas Suppliers
- Alibaba – Largest B2B marketplace with millions of suppliers.
- Global Sources – More vetted manufacturers with higher quality standards.
- Made-in-China – Specialized in industrial products and machinery.
Best Platforms for Finding U.S.-Based Suppliers
- ThomasNet – Directory of 500,000+ North American manufacturers.
- Maker’s Row – Platform focused on American manufacturers.
- Sourcify – Helps connect with both domestic and international suppliers.
Best Supplier Platforms for Other Regions
- IndiaMart – Largest B2B marketplace for Indian suppliers (great for textiles).
- SaleHoo – Curated directory of wholesalers and dropshippers.
- Worldwide Brands – Verified wholesale supplier directory.
Pro Tip: Use multiple platforms to compare pricing, quality, and supplier reliability before committing.
How to Use Alibaba Safely Without Getting Scammed
Alibaba is a powerful sourcing tool but also has risks. Here’s how to avoid scams and find reliable suppliers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Suppliers on Alibaba
- Filter for Verified Suppliers:
- Look for “Gold Supplier” status (paid verification)
- Check for “Trade Assurance” badge (payment protection)
- Verify “Verified Supplier” badge (on-site inspection completed)
- Evaluate Supplier Profiles:
- Check years in business (aim for 3+ years)
- Review transaction history and response rates
- Examine factory size and employee count
- Read customer reviews and testimonials
- Request Proper Documentation:
- Business license (verifies legal registration)
- Export license (ensures they can ship internationally)
- Product certifications (CE, RoHS, FDA, etc.)
- Test reports from previous production runs
Red Flags That Signal Scams
❌ Supplier refuses to send samples or charges excessive sample fees.
❌ Quotes 30%+ lower than competitors (too good to be true).
❌ Pressure to use Western Union, Bitcoin, or other unprotected payments.
❌ Poor communication or delayed responses.
❌ Unwillingness to provide documentation or verification details.
❌ Factory address doesn’t match business registration.
❌ Supplier sells too many unrelated products (likely a trading company, not a manufacturer).
Alternatives to Alibaba for Extra Security
- Global Sources – More rigorous supplier verification.
- ImportYeti – Shows which suppliers work with established brands (based on shipping records).
- 1688.com – Alibaba’s Chinese domestic marketplace (often cheaper but requires translation).
Essential Checklist for Vetting a New Supplier
Key Questions to Ask a Supplier Before Ordering
- Production Capabilities
- What is your monthly production capacity?
- What are your standard MOQs (minimum order quantities)?
- What are your lead times from order to delivery?
- Do you manufacture everything in-house or outsource components?
- Quality Control
- What is your average defect rate?
- What quality control processes do you follow?
- Can you provide test reports or certifications?
- What is your return policy for defective products?
- Business Verification
- Can you provide references from Western clients?
- How long have you manufactured this specific product?
- Are you a trading company or a direct manufacturer?
- What industry certifications do you hold?
Why Ordering a Sample Is Non-Negotiable
Before committing to a bulk order, always order a sample to:
✅ Assess product quality, materials, and construction
✅ Evaluate packaging durability and presentation
✅ Test functionality and performance
✅ Compare samples from 3+ different suppliers
How to Negotiate with Suppliers for the Best Prices
Negotiation is key to securing better pricing, terms, and flexibility from your suppliers.
Best Strategies to Lower Supplier Prices
✅ Request bulk order pricing based on volume commitments.
✅ Show competitor quotes (remove identifying details).
✅ Negotiate during factory slow seasons for better deals.
✅ Bundle multiple products into a single order for discounts.
✅ Offer long-term contracts for better pricing.
Red Flags During Negotiation
❌ Supplier drastically lowers prices (likely a quality compromise).
❌ Refusal to put agreements in writing.
❌ Constantly changing terms or specifications.
❌ Pressure to send large deposits via unsecured methods.
Final Thoughts: Start Sourcing with Confidence
Finding the right supplier isn’t just about price—it’s about building a long-term partnership that ensures consistent quality and reliability.
Key Takeaways:
- Compare multiple suppliers to get the best balance of price and quality.
- Always order samples before committing to a bulk order.
- Vet suppliers thoroughly by checking documentation and references.
- Negotiate strategically to secure better pricing and terms.
- Build relationships with suppliers for long-term business success.
By following this guide, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and set your Amazon FBA business up for sustainable growth. Start sourcing today and take control of your supply chain!
