Choosing the right supplier can be difficult, but it’s important you take the time required and really get to know a supplier before you bring them on as your own. Being impatient will just make communication difficult and mean that you may not get everything you want out of your supplier. Choose wisely the first time by asking the three questions below before you even look at a contract.

When Do I Get Ownership of the Product?

The last thing you want to do is sign a contract when someone delivers your goods saying that you own everything delivered. This is, in fact, a horrible idea. You don’t want bum product to be yours without any way to send it back to the manufacturer to either redo it or refund it. Make sure there is a clause in your contract that allows for full returns within 72 hours in case you see something they did wrong.

Are You Going to Sell My Ideas?

This may seem like a silly question, but time and time again a person goes to a supplier, makes a deal, and then turns their back for a minute while the supplier starts creating their own version of the owner’s product. The supplier can then sell that product for half or a quarter of what you’re selling it for, and you’re out of business. Make sure they cannot and will not sell your product direct for any reason.

What Will the Total Costs Be?

A product’s price tag is not the only cost. There’s shipping and handling fees, fuel fees, processing fees – there are so many possible fees it’ll make your head spin. Make sure you know which fees your potential supplier may send your way so you can be prepared.