Product sourcing is a core feature of Zendrop, enabling users to request the sourcing of products from suppliers efficiently. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process, manage expectations, and address any potential issues.
Submitting a Sourcing Request
To initiate a product sourcing request on Zendrop, follow these steps:
Log in to your Zendrop Account.
Navigate to the Extras section and click Request a Product.
Provide the link to the product you want sourced.
Specify your daily sales volume using the dropdown menu to assist Zendrop in identifying your sourcing requirements more effectively. Zendrop’s team will handle the rest to find the product for you.
Zendrop supports sourcing products using a link from platforms like AliExpress, Amazon, eBay, Temu, and Alibaba. Use the product URLs from these platforms for your requests.
You can access the 'Request a Product' feature directly from the left-hand menu, making navigation easier. Remember to provide your anticipated sales volume details when prompted, as this can assist Zendrop in meeting your sourcing needs effectively.
Tracking Request Status
Zendrop uses multiple statuses to track sourcing requests:
Submitted: Your request has been received.
In Progress: The team is actively sourcing your product.
Add to My Products: The product was sourced successfully and can be added to your store.
Linked: The sourced product has been added to your store.
Rejected: The request couldn’t be fulfilled due to reasons like invalid product URLs or other restrictions.
You can monitor the status of your requests in your Zendrop account under Request a Product.
Plan-Based Product Sourcing Limits
Zendrop imposes monthly limits on sourcing requests based on subscription plans:
Free Plan: 1 request per month
Pro Plan: 5 requests per month
Plus Plan: 20 requests per month
Usage-Based: 20 requests per month. Ensure your plan's allocation fits your product sourcing strategy.
Expected Timelines and Delays
Product sourcing requests are typically completed within 24–48 hours. However, some requests may require additional time due to factors like product availability, high request volumes, or supplier negotiations.
Common Causes of Delays
High Volume: Increased demand can create processing backlogs.
Supplier Responses: Communication delays with suppliers or availability issues.
Holidays or Weekends: Requests may take longer during non-working days.
For requests marked as 'Quoting' or 'In Progress,' Zendrop may need additional time to negotiate the best prices and ensure quality. If delayed over a weekend, progress will resume on Monday or Tuesday.
Outcomes and Rejections
While Zendrop strives to fulfill all sourcing requests, some circumstances lead to rejections:
Low Demand: Factories may not manufacture low-demand items.
Prohibited Products: Products like contraband or items requiring customization (not supported under regular sourcing).
Supplier Availability: Lack of suitable suppliers in Zendrop’s network.
Product Unavailability: Zendrop will suggest similar alternatives if the requested product is permanently discontinued or unavailable.
Generic Products: Zendrop sources unbranded, generic products to avoid copyright issues; this may result in slight variations from the original product links provided.
In case of rejections, alternatives like the Print-On-Demand (POD) feature or the Private Agent Program (meeting eligibility criteria) may apply.
Policies for AliExpress Integration and Repackaging
Zendrop uses AliExpress product links purely as references for sourcing and is not directly affiliated with AliExpress.
Products may not always be sourced due to supplier limitations; alternatives will be suggested if necessary.
All products are repackaged to exclude any Chinese lettering, or foreign addresses, ensuring a professional presentation.
Managing Expectations and Updates
Zendrop is committed to keeping users informed about their requests:
Request status is updated promptly in your account.
Delays are communicated with reasons where possible.
The team works actively to resolve issues, providing alternatives like similar product options when exact matches aren’t available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if the product I want is not available in Zendrop's catalog?
You can submit a product request as outlined above. Zendrop’s team will source the product and notify you of the update within the specified timeframe.
Can I submit a request for branded products?
No, Zendrop only sources generic products to comply with copyright regulations.
What happens after the product is sourced?
Once the product is sourced, it is added as a Zendrop item. You can review the product, create a listing for your store, and proceed with fulfilling orders.
If your request has been delayed significantly, Zendrop’s team ensures all steps are taken to expedite the process.
Managing Unlinked Products
If a previously sourced product is missing due to being unlinked or any other reason:
Retrieve the product using the product link provided by Zendrop support.
Once retrieved, relink it to your store for uninterrupted operations.
To review and understand how many requests your membership plan includes and how does it works, visit Zendrop's Request a Product Quote article.