How to Find a Reputable Drop Shipper for Your eBay Business

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By A. Suzanne Wells
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Drop shippers can provide inventory for those who don't have access to a ready supply.

Using a drop shipper for your eBay business is one option if you do not have access to local inventory, don’t want to handle shipping, or want to run a turn-key ecommerce business. Learn how to choose a reputable drop shipper to work with if you have an eBay store or other online business.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Do your homework. Research the company by doing searches on Google, checking with the Better Business Bureau, and reading the Rip Off Report. Determine if complaints have been made against the drop shipper or wholesaler.
Step 2

Ask other sellers who they recommend. Some eBay sellers will not share this information, as they don’t want to divulge their source for inventory. Others will tell you who not to deal with, if they have had a bad experience. Some sellers will gladly share information on drop shippers if they are happy with the service. Check the eBay groups and forums, Facebook, Twitter, and other social websites with eBay groups. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. You can gather valuable information just by reading the discussions on the eBay forums – you don’t even have to write anything.
Step 3

Check out drop shippers that eBay recommends. By using eBay’s recommended drop shipper, you have some recourse if you encounter a problem.
Step 4

Take advantage of free trials. Most drop shipping companies will offer a free, no risk trial. This will allow you to access the company’s website and look around. Go with your gut. If something does not feel right, do not work with the company. Always remember to cancel your free trial before you are billed.
Step 5

Ask the drop shipper questions before signing up or making any final decisions. If your questions are answered in a timely manner to your satisfaction, this is a good sign. If not, you probably don’t want to work with that company.
Step 6

Read all contracts and agreements before signing up with the drop shipper. In fact, having a trusted friend, co-worker, or another eBay seller read the agreement is a great idea. Understand payments, returns, shipping times, and any other aspect of drop shipping that will affect your customer. Make sure you understand and agree to abide by all of the elements of the contract before signing.
Step 7

Be wary of anyone soliciting you to join a drop ship program. If you are an eBay seller, you have probably received emails from international companies advertising their drop ship business. Do your own research and find a drop shipper that feels comfortable to you.
Step 8

Avoid using drop shippers outside of the United States. United States laws are not enforceable outside our borders, so if you are scammed, law enforcement cannot help you.
Step 9

Check the resources links below for recommended eBay drop shippers.