Selling on Amazon seems like a goldmine—until you encounter supplier issues. Many sellers assume they’re good to go as long as they find a manufacturer. But that’s where things go sideways. Around 85% of Amazon sellers pick the wrong Amazon FBA supplier, leading to delays, poor product quality, or hidden costs that eat into profits.
So, what’s going wrong? And more importantly, how can you avoid the same mistakes?
1. Trusting the Cheapest Option
A low price tag might look tempting, but it often comes with compromises. Many sellers choose suppliers solely based on cost, only to realize later that quality control is non-existent. Cheap materials, poor packaging, or frequent defects can lead to bad reviews and returns.
Instead, focus on value over price. Compare pricing and check quality samples, production timelines, and communication responsiveness. If a supplier hesitates to send samples or dodges quality-related questions, take that as a red flag.
2. Ignoring Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)
Some suppliers have sky-high minimum order quantities (MOQs), forcing sellers to buy more than they need. New Amazon sellers often get stuck with excess inventory that takes months to sell—or worse, never sells.
Conversely, going for a supplier with extremely low MOQs could mean they’re not a serious manufacturer. Reliable suppliers set reasonable minimums that ensure production efficiency without draining your budget.
3. Not Verifying Supplier Credentials
A fancy website or a professional-looking Alibaba profile doesn’t mean the supplier is legit. Many sellers assume they’re dealing with a manufacturer when talking to a middleman. These resellers mark up prices while adding little value.
Before committing, always:
- Request business licenses or certifications
- Check customer reviews and ratings
- Use third-party verification services
- Ask if they own the factory (if they dodge the question, they’re likely a middleman)
4. Overlooking Shipping and Lead Times
A supplier might offer great pricing and quality, but long shipping times can crush your business. Many sellers fail to account for delays in production, customs clearance, or even Amazon’s warehouse intake process.
Before placing an order, ask:
- How long does production take?
- What shipping methods do they use?
- Do they handle customs, or is that on you?
A reliable Amazon FBA supplier will provide clear timelines and offer backup solutions in case of unexpected delays.
5. Ignoring Supplier Communication Styles
If a supplier is slow to respond before placing an order, imagine how frustrating it’ll be when you have urgent issues. Poor communication leads to misunderstandings, delays, and incorrect orders.
Look for a supplier who:
- Responds promptly and clearly
- Provides updates without you chasing them
- Is open to discussing concerns and adjustments
Good communication saves time and prevents costly mistakes.
6. Not Inspecting Products Before Shipping
Many sellers trust their supplier’s word and skip product inspections. That’s a mistake. Even reputable factories can make errors; without a quality check, defective products might end up in Amazon’s warehouse. Returns and bad reviews will follow.
Always:
- Request product samples before mass production
- Hire a third-party inspection service for bulk orders
- Check packaging quality to ensure safe delivery
A solid Amazon FBA supplier won’t mind inspections—they’ll welcome them as a way to maintain long-term business relationships.
7. Failing to Plan for Growth
A supplier might meet your needs now, but will they be able to scale with your business? Many sellers get stuck when they suddenly need larger orders, and their suppliers can’t keep up.
Before choosing a supplier, consider:
- Their production capacity
- Whether they can handle bulk orders during peak seasons
- Their ability to provide consistent quality at scale
How to Pick the Right Supplier from Day One
Avoiding these mistakes can save you money, stress, and bad reviews. Here’s how to make a smarter choice:
✔ Research multiple suppliers before committing
✔ Ask detailed questions about quality control, lead times, and shipping
✔ Verify their business legitimacy
✔ Inspect products before they reach Amazon
✔ Choose a supplier who communicates well and can grow with your business
Suppliers such as SNINT can be your best choice if picking the right supplier is your quest worldwide.
The Bottom Line
Finding the right Amazon FBA supplier takes time but is worth the effort. Get it right from the start, and you’ll set yourself up for long-term success instead of scrambling to fix supplier disasters down the road.