A sourcing agent’s prime goal is to help companies save time and money on production. They do this by locating sources for high quality materials and products at the lowest price. With their connections and expertise, a sourcing specialist can offer a variety of services that may prove useful to you and your company.
Services Of a Sourcing Agent
Outsourcing agents typically have a broad range of skills from coordination and good business sense to knowing different languages and negotiating with both on and offshore manufacturers. Sourcing consultants know where to find different suppliers and have prior connections with manufacturing companies.
They also often negotiate with potential suppliers to research discounts and deals that you may not have time to work out on your own. Saving money and establishing long-lasting contacts benefits both the supplier and manufacturing company.
Outsourcing agents are particularly helpful if your manufacturer is overseas. They work to vet potential manufacturers and determine the needs of both companies. Sourcing coordinators can locate suppliers and visit and inspect factories, meeting them in person to see if they will be able to handle the demand or meet certain standards.
Sourcing specialists also serve as a purchasing manager to help handle tariffs, taxes, importing, and exporting. If you aren’t familiar working with the laws and standards of different countries, a sourcing agent can save you a major headache. Their experience and skills can help expedite shipping and cut down on expenses, reducing the risk of any delays or unexpected halts in the supply chain.
Advantages of Using a Sourcing Agent
Saves Time & Money
Outsourcing agents serve as representatives for your company. They are the middle-man working to get you the most bang for your buck. Relying on someone else to find you the best deal and the best quality, while also handling logistic management, saves you valuable time, energy and money.
Trusted Network of Manufacturers
The advantage to working with a purchasing manager is that they have history and experience working with reliable manufacturers. They keep a list of tried-and-true companies that is constantly developed and compiled over many years. Sourcing agents maintain relationships with quality manufacturers across a variety of industries to find the most compatible fit for your company.
Peace of Mind
Relying on an outsourcing agent offers the business owner peace of mind. Sourcing specialists are experts in manufacturing and know the ins and outs of their industry. They are working to save you time and money.
Established Liaison & Expert in Negotiation
Sourcing agents act as procurement managers and manufacturing representatives. Working on your behalf, the agent will negotiate and dedicate their time to find quality products, manufacturing factories, and prices for you and your company.
Knowledge of Culture & Developed Relationships
Whether you are outsourcing domestically or overseas, sourcing agents know where and who to work with. They have knowledge of culture, language, and different business practices with international companies, which ultimately saves you time and research.
Need of a sourcing agent for outsourcing
Whether you are outsourcing domestically or overseas, sourcing agents know where and who to work with. They have knowledge of culture, language, and different business practices with international companies, which ultimately saves you time and research