What Matters Most When Finding a New Android or iPhone Supplier

Whether you are a wholesaler, retailer, refurbisher, or repair shop, you need to buy a steady supply of phones in bulk if you want to grow your business. The problem is that finding a reliable Android or iPhone supplier can be tricky, and your business depends on a supplier that is honest and trustworthy so you can be sure you’re getting what you paid for. 

For this reason, finding a new Android or iPhone supplier is about more than just googling ‘wholesale mobile phones’ or ‘buy iPhones in bulk’ and picking the first company that shows up in your search results. As tempted as you may be to rush this process, being patient and choosing carefully will help you find an Android or iPhone supplier you can rely on.

We have interviewed our customers and found that there are 8 important factors that matter most when choosing a new supplier. We’ve laid them out below so you can be sure you’re making the right choice. 

1. A Solid Reputation

Everyone has been burned in this industry. Because most Android and iPhone suppliers ask for payment in advance, buyers can be left holding the bag if a supplier is not reputable. So, how can you tell if a supplier will deliver on their promises? As you research suppliers, take a look at how long they’ve been in business and see what other resellers have to say. Make a list of established suppliers with good reputations, and then send a short email to each. If a company takes a long time to get back to you or seems dismissive, that’s a big red flag. 

2. Consistent and Reliable Testing and Grading

Different Android and iPhone suppliers have different testing and grading standards, so what you should be looking for is transparency and consistency. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what someone’s testing or grading standards are, as long as they are accurate and reliable. You just need to be absolutely sure that you get the quality you’ve paid for when you order a specific grade of device. There should be no surprises when your inventory arrives. 

3. Clear and Logical Pricing

Price shouldn’t be your sole concern when you’re looking for a new Android or iPhone supplier, but it is an important one. If a supplier makes it hard to find prices, is clearly overpriced, or you get the sense that they are offering radically different prices to different buyers, then move on. You shouldn’t ever have to dig or jump through hoops to get prices. 
It’s also important that the pricing information you get matches the grade of the devices you’re buying. If you’re looking for pristine devices, chances are you’re going to pay more. Conversely, you may be able to score big discounts if you are willing to buy heavily used phones from a supplier. Always look for suppliers with pricing that makes sense. 

4. Consistent Inventory

Consistent inventory (or lack thereof) can make or break a reseller. Great Android and iPhone suppliers are well aware of the challenges that come along with inconsistent inventory and do whatever they can to maintain a consistent and diverse supply of phones and other devices. 

5. The Ability to Place a Sample Order

No reputable Android or iPhone supplier will push you into making a big order right away because they know resellers want to see, touch, and try inventory before making a commitment. A great supplier will treat that first order as an important transaction — and make it easy for you.

6. Fast Shipping

Many retailers and wholesalers buy inventory on demand, only placing their own orders when they need to fill specific orders for customers. If you don’t hold a lot of stock, it is vital that you find a supplier that can offer you super-fast, reliable shipping whenever you need it. A great supplier will have a number of different shipping options so that you can get your order the next day when you need it and also save money on shipping when you’re willing to wait longer for the delivery of your devices. 

7. A Clear Returns Process

A supplier’s return policy and process should be published on their website, and it should be easy to understand. Ideally, you’ll be able to get free returns on your first order, and on any subsequent orders if the product was not what you were expecting or was defective. The bottom line is that you should never have to jump through hoops to get a credit if there is an issue with your order. Look for suppliers whose return policy and process is transparent and simple.

8. Easy Payment Methods and Financing Help

In this industry, it is standard for a supplier to ask for a wire in advance of shipping. However, ask your new supplier about other payment options. Some suppliers will allow you to use other payment options such as COD, credit card, and Paypal. Your supplier may want to build a track record with you before offering these payment methods, but it is good to know that this is a possibility down the line. Some really exceptional suppliers offer credit lines so buyers can get the inventory they need and pay on a timeline they choose, so be aware that financing is an option. 

Finding a new Android or iPhone supplier that meets the above criteria will take time, but the effort you put into the search will pay off in the long run. When you have the inventory your customers need at your fingertips, you will be able to capitalize on new opportunities and maximize your profitability.

Ready to start stocking up? Whether you are a retailer, wholesaler, distributor, or refurbisher, LogicalWireless can help you find the devices you need, when you need them.