How do you find low minimums?
Starting a new product can be overwhelming. Learning how to do all things from artwork to selling is a lot. I feel you! So, it is not uncommon to want to start with a small amount of inventory! But, how do you find who will run small amounts where you can still make some money? Here are some ideas!
Start local! Oftentimes for certain products there are very low minimums when done locally. If you walk in a print shop and are able to discuss your needs face to face with someone, you will often be surprised at the outcome. Do a google search of local businesses that create the products you want to create. Search by your town, your state and then your country.
Walk a tradeshow. There are many shows where manufacturers set up and you can discuss minimums with them in person. Many are open to starting with lower MOQ (minimum order quantities) to create a new relationship.
Crowdsourcing. This can be a great option if you get a group of people who want the same product as you, who also want a lower minimum, but maybe together you can meet the MOQ with both of your numbers combined. This is worth a try!
Use social media! Ask around. Everyone is making product once you decide to try, am I right? Some businesses are open to sharing who they source from. Some are not. Be mindful that it takes a lot of time to create relationships with factories.
Look overseas. It is possible to find low minimums overseas. This is a huge misconception that you will be stuck with a ton of stock by looking at sights like Alibaba.com or Aliexpress. I go over how to do this in my class Secrets to Sourcing Overseas. You can learn more about that here.
Hire a sourcing agent. If you have a specific product and you want someone to do the searching for you, a sourcing agent can be a game changer.