Start with a narrow product goal
Trying to source too many categories in one trip can make supplier meetings shallow. Choose a few product lines, target prices and quality levels before arrival.
This helps suppliers understand whether they can serve you and helps you compare offers with less confusion.
Understand MOQ and sample reality
Small importers often need lower MOQ, but low MOQ may change price, packaging options and production priority.
Ask about sample cost, sample time, customization limits and whether the sample represents real mass production.
Use local support to reduce first-trip mistakes
A local business assistant can help with supplier questions, city routes, interpretation and follow-up notes.
For Spanish-speaking buyers, this is especially useful when suppliers communicate partly in English or Chinese.