Canton Fair 101: How to Sell on Amazon Like a Pro with Insider Tips and Tricks
Categories: Canton Fair, Selling On Amazon
Tags: , Amazon Launch, B2B E-commerce, Business networking, Canton Fair, china import and export fair, global marketplace, Import Export Business, Importing from China, International trade, Manufacturer Directory, Product sourcing, Trade Show, Wholesale Suppliers
Are you interested in selling products on Amazon but don’t know where to start? The Canton Fair, also known as the China Import and Export Fair, is one of the world’s largest trade shows where you can source a wide variety of products at competitive prices. With a little bit of preparation and insider knowledge, you can use the Canton Fair as a launchpad for your Amazon selling career.
In this article, we’ll provide you with Canton Fair 101: How to Sell on Amazon Like a Pro with Insider Tips and Tricks. We’ll cover everything from the basics of the Canton Fair to the specific strategies you can use to maximize your time there and source winning products to sell on Amazon.
What is the Canton Fair?
The Canton Fair is a bi-annual trade show that takes place in Guangzhou, China. It attracts buyers and sellers from all over the world, and is one of the most important events for global trade. The fair is divided into three phases, with each phase focused on different industries and product categories.
Phase 1: Electronics and household electrical appliances, lighting equipment, vehicles and spare parts, machinery, hardware and tools, building materials, chemical products, and energy resources.
Phase 2: Consumer goods, gifts, and home decorations.
Phase 3: Textiles and garments, shoes, office supplies, recreational products, medical and healthcare products, food and agricultural products.
As an Amazon seller, you’ll likely be most interested in the products available in Phase 2 and 3. However, depending on your niche, you may find valuable products in Phase 1 as well.
Preparing for the Canton Fair
Before you attend the Canton Fair, it’s important to do your research and prepare accordingly. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
- Research the products you want to sell on Amazon: Take the time to research the products you want to sell on Amazon before attending the Canton Fair. This will help you focus on the right products and save you time and money in the long run.
- Connect with suppliers beforehand: Reach out to suppliers before the fair to establish a relationship and ensure that they will be attending. This will give you an opportunity to negotiate prices and terms before you arrive.
- Bring your business cards: Make sure to bring plenty of business cards with you to the fair. This will help you network and build relationships with suppliers.
- Dress appropriately: Dress professionally and comfortably for the fair. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Book accommodations in advance: Book your accommodations in advance to ensure that you have a place to stay during the fair. Hotels in Guangzhou can fill up quickly during the fair, so it’s best to book early.
Maximizing Your Time at the Canton Fair
Once you arrive at the Canton Fair, it’s important to make the most of your time there. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
- Create a plan of attack: Before you start walking the fair, create a plan of attack. Identify the products and suppliers you want to see first and prioritize them.
- Use a translator if necessary: If you don’t speak Chinese, consider hiring a translator to help you communicate with suppliers. This will make negotiations easier and ensure that you understand the terms and conditions.
- Negotiate prices and terms: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices and terms with suppliers. This is a common practice in China, and most suppliers expect it.
- Take notes and photos: Take notes and photos of the products and suppliers you’re interested in. This will help you remember the details later and compare products and prices.
- Be open-minded: Keep anopen mind while at the Canton Fair. You may come across products or suppliers that you weren’t initially interested in, but that could be a good fit for your Amazon store.
- Network with other sellers: Take the opportunity to network with other Amazon sellers who are also attending the fair. You may be able to share tips and strategies with each other, or even collaborate on future projects.
- Follow up after the fair: After the fair is over, make sure to follow up with the suppliers you’re interested in. Send them an email or give them a call to discuss pricing and terms further.
Sourcing Winning Products
One of the keys to success on Amazon is sourcing winning products. Here are some strategies to help you do just that at the Canton Fair:
- Look for products that solve a problem: One of the best ways to find winning products is to look for products that solve a problem. Think about the pain points of your target customers and look for products that address those issues.
- Consider seasonal products: Seasonal products, such as holiday decorations, can be a great way to boost sales during certain times of the year. Look for products that are in high demand during specific seasons.
- Think about product bundles: Product bundles can be a great way to increase the average order value on Amazon. Look for complementary products that you can bundle together to create a compelling offer.
- Look for products with high margins: To maximize your profits on Amazon, look for products with high margins. This will give you more room to work with when it comes to pricing and promotions.
- Stay up-to-date on trends: Keep an eye on industry trends and hot products to stay ahead of the competition. Look for products that are trending on Amazon and consider adding them to your store.
Final Thoughts
Attending the Canton Fair can be a game-changer for Amazon sellers. With the right preparation and strategies, you can source winning products at competitive prices and take your Amazon business to the next level. Remember to do your research, create a plan of attack, and be open-minded while at the fair. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to selling on Amazon like a pro.