Where to Source Products for Your Shopify Store

Finding the right products to sell is one of the most important steps in building a successful Shopify store. Whether you’re just getting started or expanding your product line, knowing where to source high-quality items can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to get products for your Shopify store:

1. Wholesalers

Wholesale suppliers are a great option if you want to buy products in bulk at lower prices and sell them at a markup. By purchasing directly from a wholesaler, you can often get better deals and enjoy a higher profit margin. Some of the most popular online wholesale marketplaces include:

• Alibaba: One of the largest global marketplaces, offering millions of products at wholesale prices from suppliers around the world. It's ideal for sourcing products in bulk, though you’ll need to handle shipping and quality control.
• Wholesale Central: A U.S.-based directory of wholesalers and suppliers offering a wide variety of products, from electronics to clothing.
• SaleHoo: A directory of verified suppliers that offers access to thousands of products at wholesale prices. It’s a popular option for new entrepreneurs because of its user-friendly interface and support.

2. Dropshipping Suppliers

Dropshipping is a great option if you want to sell products without holding inventory. With dropshipping, the supplier ships the product directly to your customer, allowing you to focus on marketing and sales. Some well-known dropshipping suppliers for Shopify include:

• Oberlo: Oberlo integrates directly with Shopify and offers a range of products from vetted suppliers. You can easily import products into your store and start selling without worrying about inventory or shipping.
• Spocket: Spocket connects you with suppliers, primarily in the U.S. and Europe, which can help reduce shipping times compared to suppliers from Asia. It’s a great option for store owners looking for faster delivery.
• Modalyst: Specializing in fashion and accessories, Modalyst gives you access to high-quality suppliers and trendy products that can be dropshipped directly to your customers.

3. Print on Demand

If you’re interested in selling custom designs, print on demand (POD) is a fantastic option. With POD, you can sell products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more, featuring your own designs. When a customer places an order, the product is printed and shipped on your behalf. Popular print-on-demand platforms for Shopify include:

• Printful: Printful offers a wide variety of customizable products, from apparel to home goods, and integrates seamlessly with Shopify. They handle printing, packing, and shipping, so all you need to do is focus on creating designs and marketing.
• Printify: Similar to Printful, Printify offers a wide range of products that you can customize and sell through your Shopify store. They also have multiple print providers worldwide, giving you flexibility on pricing and shipping.
• Teelaunch: Teelaunch is another print-on-demand option with a range of products and fast fulfillment times, particularly for U.S.-based customers.

4. Local Artisans and Makers

If you want to offer unique, handmade products, consider sourcing from local artisans or small-scale manufacturers. Many Shopify store owners have found success selling handmade goods, whether they’re locally sourced or made by the seller themselves. You can connect with artisans through:

• Etsy: While Etsy is primarily a marketplace for selling handmade goods, many artisans are open to wholesale deals, especially if you reach out directly. You can negotiate a bulk purchase or create custom products exclusive to your store.
• Local Craft Fairs and Markets: Attend local craft fairs or artisan markets to discover unique products. You can build relationships with makers and offer exclusive products that set your store apart.

5. Private Labeling

Private labeling is when you take an existing product from a manufacturer and brand it as your own. This option gives you control over branding and packaging, making your product more unique without needing to design or produce the item yourself. Many manufacturers on platforms like Alibaba or Global Sources offer private labeling services.

6. Retail Arbitrage

Retail arbitrage involves purchasing products from retail stores (either online or brick-and-mortar) and reselling them for a profit. You can source discounted or clearance items from retailers like Walmart, Target, or even Amazon, and list them in your Shopify store. This method requires careful price comparisons and a keen eye for deals, but it can be a quick way to get products in your store.

7. Product Research Tools

If you’re unsure what products to sell, using product research tools can help you identify trending or high-demand items. Tools like Google Trends, Jungle Scout, or Ecomhunt analyze market data and help you find popular products with high sales potential.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right products for your Shopify store is key to building a successful business. Whether you choose to dropship, buy wholesale, create custom products with print-on-demand, or source from local makers, make sure to research your suppliers and always prioritize product quality. With the right products, your Shopify store will be well-positioned to attract customers and grow your brand.