Need advice on hiring an agent and managing customs for a drop shipping store?

[Chimera2021]

I hope I have selected the right Board for this question

I need advice from someone who has successfully started and operated a drop shipping store based in Canada, with suppliers outside of the country including China. I am about to launch in the next few weeks, with focus on Canada as well as the US, and given there is no volume, having to weigh what I do myself Vs having 3rd party support.

At this stage of the business, what is the value of an hiring an agent in Asia? In addition, do I need a customs agent and is it advised? Or should I attempt to manage the customs process myself, which seems onerous? How has your experience been in having the customer cover the customs duties? I have posed these questions on shopify expert but have only receive offers for other non-related services. At any rate, I would rather receive practical, hands-on, pertinent advice than technical advice, unless there’s an app that takes care of all of this. Much appreciated.

[ShipAntdotcom]

If you havent started yet I suggest you just try Aliexpress with Oberlo to run the business for 2 to 3 months then you will know clients requirements and your business requirements, after that you can inquire 3rd party dropshipping agent with your service requirements, in this case your business could benefit each other.

[Chimera2021]

Thank You!

[dropship_helps]

Hello @Chimera2021 

If you are selling only within Canada, we recommend going with Canadian dropshipping suppliers. 

https://www.btr.com/

https://www.bargainsgroup.com/

https://ecorite.com/

[Chimera2021]

Canada & the US, although the US is less of an issue due to its higher customs threshold ($800+).