How to Source Products to Sell Online
9 min read
If you're starting an online business or running an online store, one of the biggest questions is:
“Where do I get my products from?”
This process is called product sourcing, and it’s one of the most important steps in building a successful business.
The success of every online business lies in sourcing the right products.
It doesn’t matter how strong your marketing is, how innovative your website is, or how loyal your customer base may be; if you don’t know where to find quality products that meet customers’ demands, your business will struggle.
Every thriving online business starts with sourcing great products that meet customer demands, align with the brand’s values, and generate profits.
What is Product Sourcing?
Product sourcing is the process of finding and acquiring goods to sell in your online store. It involves identifying suppliers, assessing product quality, negotiating terms, and ensuring you have a reliable flow of inventory.
It doesn’t matter if you’re dropshipping, working with wholesalers, or creating your products; understanding how to source products effectively can save you time, money, and effort.
At its essence, product sourcing is providing solutions for your customers. By knowing what they need and where to find it, you position your business to deliver value and grow sustainably.
10 Smart Ways to Find a Product to Sell Online
Finding the right product to sell is the foundation of building a successful e-commerce business.
But with so many possibilities out there, how do you choose a winning product idea that’s both profitable and sustainable?
1. Solve a Pain Point
One of the most effective strategies is to solve a real problem. Pay attention to the daily frustrations people face, at home, at work, on travel, or in their hobbies. A product that addresses a specific challenge has a built-in demand.
Example: The rise of blue light glasses came from addressing digital eye strain due to increased screen time.
2. Spot Trends
Early adopters often profit the most. Keep an eye on emerging trends by monitoring platforms like Google Trends, Trend Hunter, or social media hashtags. Act fast before the market becomes saturated.
Tip: Use tools like Exploding Topics to catch trends early and ride the wave.
3. Appeal to Niche Interests
Instead of competing with big brands, go niche. Passionate subcultures or hobbyist communities are often eager to support businesses that cater directly to their unique interests.
Example: Custom chess boards with African patterns or figurines designed as traditional warriors, kings, or queens.
4. Address an Underserved Market
Some customers feel ignored by mainstream businesses. This could be due to language, location, cultural gaps, or overlooked demographics. Creating products tailored to these groups is a strong differentiator.
Example: Locally made clothing that fits chubby individuals.
5. Follow a Personal Passion
Passion fuels perseverance. When you sell something you’re genuinely interested in, your enthusiasm becomes contagious, and it often leads to a stronger brand story.
Bonus: You already understand your audience because you are one of them.
6. Consider Your Professional Experience
Leverage your industry knowledge or job skills to spot gaps in the market. You might notice inefficiencies or unmet needs that outsiders wouldn't see.
Example: A former chef might create a Nigerian meal-prepping guide.
7. Find Product Opportunities in Keywords
Use keyword research tools like SEMrush, Ubersuggest, Ahrefs, or Google Keyword Planner to discover what people are searching for online. Look for long-tail keywords with high search volume but low competition.
Example: If many are searching for “pet-safe cleaning sprays” but few products rank for it, that’s an opportunity.
8. Leverage Social Media
Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest are gold mines for product inspiration. Monitor influencers, viral content, and trending hashtags to discover what’s catching attention.
Tip: Use TikTok’s “Trending” section or Instagram Explore to identify product ideas gaining traction.
9. Browse Online Marketplaces
Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and eBay showcase what’s selling now. Search through the best-seller categories or read customer reviews to understand what’s missing in current offerings.
Pro move: Check “Customers also bought” or “Frequently bought together” to find complementary product ideas.
10. Improve an Existing Product
Not all ideas need to be brand-new. Take something that already exists and make it better. This could be through improved quality, better design, sustainability, packaging, or customer service.
Example: A more durable water bottle that doesn’t leak and keeps beverages cold longer.
Where Can You Source Products From?
1. Manufacturers
Direct partnerships with manufacturers allow you to purchase goods at lower costs. This option is ideal for businesses dealing with bulk orders or seeking unique products that can be customized to their brand.
2. Wholesalers
Wholesalers act as intermediaries between manufacturers and retailers. They sell products in bulk at discounted prices, making it easier to stock a variety of items in your inventory.
3. Dropshipping Suppliers
With dropshipping, suppliers fulfill orders by shipping products directly to customers. This allows you to sell without holding inventory, reducing upfront investment and risk.
4. Online Marketplaces
Platforms like Alibaba, AliExpress, and SaleHoo connect you with global suppliers, making it easy to compare products and negotiate deals.
5. Local Vendors
Sourcing locally from artisans, small businesses, or distributors can provide unique and region-specific products that appeal to your audience.
6. Trade Shows and Fairs
Trade shows are excellent for meeting suppliers and manufacturers face-to-face, seeing their products firsthand, and building relationships.
7. Private Labeling
Partnering with manufacturers to create products under your brand allows you full control over design, quality, and branding.
Benefits of Having Multiple Sources for Your Products
1. Risk Reduction
One of the most significant benefits of having multiple sources for your products is risk mitigation.
When you rely on a single supplier, any disruption in their operations, such as stock shortages, delays, price increases, or logistical issues, can severely affect your business.
However, having multiple sources means you always have a backup plan. If one supplier faces challenges, you can quickly pivot to another, ensuring continuity and minimizing downtime.
For example, imagine a sudden spike in demand for a product during the holiday season. If your primary supplier can’t meet the demand, alternate sources can step in to fulfill orders without disappointing your customers.
2. Access to varieties of Products
Different suppliers often specialize in different products or categories. When you work with multiple sources, you gain access to a broader inventory, which allows you to offer a diverse range of goods to your customers.
This variety not only appeals to a wider audience but also helps you adapt to changing trends and customer preferences.
For instance, one supplier might focus on eco-friendly products, while another excels in high-tech gadgets. Partnering with both allows you to cater to environmentally conscious shoppers as well as tech enthusiasts, expanding your customer base.
3. Flexibility in Meeting Seasonal and Market Demands
Consumer demands often fluctuate based on seasons, holidays, and market trends.
Sourcing products from multiple suppliers helps you gain the flexibility to adapt quickly to these changes.
Like during the holiday season, customers may look for festive items, while in summer, outdoor gear might be in demand.
Having suppliers that specialize in different categories ensures that you can adjust your inventory accordingly.
Moreover, if a new trend emerges, you can quickly source trending products from a supplier instead of waiting for your primary source to stock them.
4. Customer Satisfaction
A reliable and diverse product sourcing directly contributes to better customer satisfaction. When customers find the products they want readily available and experience timely delivery, they’re more likely to return and recommend your business. Multiple sources help you avoid stockouts, delays, and other issues that negatively impact customer experience.
For instance, if a popular product sells out, your secondary suppliers can quickly replenish the stock, maintaining customer trust and loyalty.
How to Source Products
1. Understand Your Audience
Before you start sourcing products, you need a clear understanding of your target audience.
Ask yourself:
a. What are their needs and preferences?
b. What problems are they looking to solve?
c. What types of products resonate with them?
This will guide your sourcing decisions, ensuring the products you choose align with their interests.
2. Decide on Your Sourcing Method
There are multiple ways to source products, each suited to different types of businesses. They include Manufacturing, wholesale, dropshipping, local vendors, and marketplaces. Choose a method that aligns with your business goals, budget, and logistical capabilities.
3. Research Reliable Suppliers
Finding trustworthy suppliers is an important factor for maintaining quality and minimizing disruptions.
How do you identify them?
a. Look for reviews and testimonials on platforms like Alibaba.
b. Verify the supplier’s credentials, such as certifications or previous partnerships.
c. Compare pricing, terms, and delivery timelines.
d. Communicate with suppliers directly to assess responsiveness and professionalism.
Building relationships with credible suppliers ensures smooth operations and quality assurance for your customers.
4. Test Product Quality
Never skip this step. Request samples from suppliers before placing a large order. This allows you to evaluate:
a. The quality of materials and craftsmanship.
b. Packaging and branding consistency.
c. Whether the product matches your expectations.
Testing samples also gives you an edge in identifying any potential defects, ensuring your customers receive only the best.
5. Negotiate Terms
Sourcing is as much about negotiation as it is about finding products.
Suppliers are often open to discussing pricing, minimum order quantities, and shipping costs. Negotiating can save you money and secure favorable terms.
Ask for discounts, discuss payment flexibility, and ensure fair and reasonable shipping charges, especially for globally sourced products.
Conclusion
Learning how to source products is one of the key skills every business owner should master.
You can be selling from your bedroom or running an online empire, the right sourcing strategy will help you grow faster, serve your customers better, and build a trustworthy brand.
Take your time, do your research, test often, and most importantly, don’t rush the process.
Do You Need a Reliable Logistics Partner for Your Business?
After sourcing for profitable products to sell online, you'll need a reliable delivery service to take them to your customers doorstep whenever they order for your products. That's where Kwikpik comes in.
We offer fast and affordable delivery solutions specifically to your needs. Whether you’re moving bulk goods or handling individual orders, we’ve got you covered.
We are the leading Delivery-as-a-Service (DaaS) provider in Nigeria and are expanding to other African and Middle Eastern countries.
Some of our key features include:
Same-day and next-day delivery options.
Affordable pricing without hidden costs.
Delivery to remote areas across Nigeria.
Insurance and packaging services to secure your deliveries.
Get started today at Kwikpik.io and take your business to the next level!
Download our app| Become a rider| Become a business partner| Visit our social channels