How You Can Become A Distributor

Some people want to have a business that is focused on services, digital products, and work that can take place online. Others want to have a product-based business with their own products, and others want a business that has physical products – but from other companies.

It might be an online store, or it could be a hybrid between online and offline. 

What does a distributor do?

A distributor will purchase products, often directly from the manufacturer, and sell them to retailers. There is no limit to the type of products that can be sold; it can be cars, food, makeup, pet goods, and more. 

Although it is often negotiable, there will be a set price for the goods and distribution agreements. The price will be wholesale, which means that items will be purchased in bulk at a heavily discounted price. 

Accounting difficulties, delivery faults, product shortages, defects, and other customer-related issues may be handled by distributors. Replacement of items with current warranties or those destroyed or damaged during transit is frequently the duty of the distributor.

How can you become a distributor?

One of the best things about becoming a distributor is that you can choose anything that you have an interest in. If you love skincare, then you can choose that; prefer men’s sports gear? Then you can become a distributor for that. 

Keep in mind that there are advantages to becoming a preferred, official, or partner distributor. 

Industry 

Choose an industry that you are already interested in – it will make it easier to keep up with trending news and keep the job fresh to you. 

Business registration 

Your business will need to be legally registered so that you can pay VAT and taxes and acquire any registrations or licenses that are applicable to your business. These may vary from country to country and state to state. 

You should always have legal compliance and adhere to all regulations. 

Manufacturers and suppliers

Once you are registered and set up, you need to find suppliers and manufacturers of the products you want to distribute. 

Usually, when you find products that you wish to distribute, there will be information about the process and how you can apply for it. Occasionally you may contact them directly, and you can open up that line of conversation. 

Each manufacturer and supplier will have different agreement types – so you’ll need to decide which one will work best for you. 

You should look for mutually beneficial relationships, for example, if they have access to a range of brands that are within your interests. 

It’s always worth researching businesses, internationally; large orders can often work out more affordably, even after shipping costs. Make sure nothing gets lost in translation; part of forming a great relationship with overseas manufacturers and suppliers, will be excellent communication. This is crucial; order numbers, dates of shipping, import costs, and many other legalities need to be carefully considered. Therefore, whether you need a Mandarin, Hindi, or Brazilian translation to English; ensure you’ve invested in a translator for all foreign business transactions. It will save you making costly mistakes as your distribution business grows.

Logistics

You need to plan the logistics of how you will transport the goods to the buyers and what the transportation from the warehouses to your location will be. 

Logistics needs to be one of the biggest parts of your plan, as it can be one of the most complex and costly when it is done incorrectly. 

Once you have the very basics, you can slowly expand your offerings and your network. Distribution can be a lucrative and stable career option. 

Technology will be one of the ways that you will keep your company efficient and streamlined; read more here: How Software Can Improve Management – Boss Report CardBoss Report Card.