It’s possible to find a very good dropshipper on the Internet, but there are also a lot of scammers! Just as with any other source that you find online, you need to take precautions in order to find the very best dropshippers:

• Do they have any ‘extra’ fees? Genuine dropshippers should only charge you for the items you sell. Avoid companies that require a monthly subscription fee or something similar.
• Check the age of the site. Online dropshippers and wholesalers go out of business all the time either (a) because it’s a hard business to be successful in, or (b) because they are fraudulent. For these reasons, be very wary of dealing with new sites.
• Customer service is very important - especially in moments of crisis! - but sadly it is all too often neglected. Sending a test email will tell you a lot about the quality of service you and your customers are likely to receive from the company.
• Ask about warranties, guarantees, shipping policies and return policies. Everyone gets returns at some point so you need to make sure that you won’t have to foot the bill. Be sure to get in writing and signed!

There are several ways you can find the best dropshippers:

1: Searching Online - This is risky, but perseverance may pay off with hidden gems. Searching with keywords such as your product name ‘+ dropshipper’ is a good way to start. Just remember the best dropshippers’ sites aren’t always on the first few pages of results.

2: Ring the product manufacturer - You can usually find the manufacturer’s name on the item packaging. Manufacturer’s often have preferred distributors and should be able to give recommendations. You can always use email if the manufacturer is located in a non-English speaking country and you are concerned about communication difficulties.

3: Trade magazines: Distributors and manufacturers pay to advertise in these magazines so it’s an excellent way of finding current contact details. An easy way to find trade magazines in your area is to search Yahoo’s Business directory.

4. ThomasNet - If you are looking for components - anything from boot heels and microwave components to seals and gaskets! - then you will find the excellent online list of distributors and manufacturers on ThomasNet useful. The global register Thomas Global is also worth checking out.

5. Paid Directories - SaleHoo has an extensive list of drop shippers as does Worldwide Brands. But be careful - many paid directories are scams. It’s not uncommon for users to pay for access only to find outdated links or links to sites asking for more money.

6. Trade shows - Tradeshows are an excellent place to find some of the best dropshippers, although they are usually only for established retailers, so you’ll need to be able to show sales figures (unless your business has just started), business cards and a tax ID. However, nothing beats talking to suppliers face to face.

When it comes down to it, there is no getting around the hours that good research requires. Taking shortcuts with your research only means you are more likely to lose out in the end - either because of a scam or because you haven’t found the best prices and are not making enough profit.