Dropshipping is a sales model where the order is sent by the supplier to the customer. Not keeping stock doesn't mean you don't have any responsibility or cost as a seller. If a customer buys from you, they expect delivery, product information and troubleshooting.
Evaluate the supplier with a test order rather than a catalogue
Order sample products and check quality, packaging, tracking information and actual delivery time. Find out if the product photo is true, what documents are in the package and where to return it. Also, check customs and country-specific rules for cross-border sales.
Your first trial: step by step
Make a trial order for one product from start to finish. Don't promise a customer a fixed delivery date until the product reaches you.
- Determine how the supply and stock information is updated.
- Get the shipping, lost package and return responsibility in writing.
- Set up the customer support and refund flow.
Costs and pricing
Example: 1,200 TL sales, 600 TL product, 150 TL delivery, 80 TL payment and tools expenses, 250 TL advertising share, then 120 TL remains. Taxes, refunds and unexpected expenses may reduce this amount. This example is not a profit forecast. If you pay the supplier right away and collect late, you might need extra working capital.
Before publishing or applying
Avoid counterfeit products, uncertain safety or unauthorised sales. Tell the recipient your return address, delivery times and total price. Also evaluate the process of transferring customer data to the supplier. Stop the ad, and you'll never stop tracking orders and returns.