How to Find Products for Your Shopify Store

Starting a Shopify store is an exciting journey, but finding the right products to sell is a crucial step. Whether you're looking for dropshipping products, custom print-on-demand items, or wholesale suppliers, sourcing products for Shopify requires strategy. In this complete product sourcing guide for Shopify, we’ll break down how to find the best suppliers, how to source products for your online store, and explore the most effective product sourcing best practices for Shopify stores. With the right tools, like product sourcing apps, market research, and supplier connections, you can easily find trending products that resonate with your audience and set your store up for success. Let’s dive in and explore how to get started!

What is Product Sourcing?

Product sourcing is the process of finding products to sell in your online store. It’s about identifying reliable dropshipping suppliers, manufacturers, or dropshipping partners who can provide the products you want to offer. Whether you're looking for wholesale suppliers for Shopify stores or exploring custom print-on-demand Shopify products, product sourcing is key to building a successful business. The right product sourcing guide for Shopify will help you connect with the best suppliers, giving you the tools to stock your store with quality products that appeal to your target audience.

Why Product Sourcing is Critical for Shopify Store Success

The success of your Shopify store largely depends on the products you offer. If you don’t source products effectively, it’s hard to attract customers or generate sales. Product sourcing for Shopify Dropshipping ensures you have quality items that align with your brand and meet customer demands. 

For example, using Shopify dropshipping suppliers can help minimize upfront investment by allowing you to sell without holding inventory. Additionally, finding trending dropshipping products or sourcing from reliable manufacturers can give you a competitive edge. Effective product sourcing not only saves time and money but also builds trust with your customers, leading to better reviews and repeat business.

Where to Find Products for Your Shopify Store

When it comes to product sourcing for Shopify, finding reliable and high-quality products is key. The right suppliers and sourcing strategies can set your store up for success. Here’s a breakdown of where to find products to sell.

1. Wholesalers: A Reliable Source for Bulk Products

Wholesalers are one of the most common sources for Shopify store owners. They offer products in bulk at discounted prices, making it easier to stock your store with affordable inventory. For example, wholesale suppliers for Shopify can provide everything from electronics to clothing, allowing you to build a wide range of offerings. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to scale your store, wholesalers are a great starting point.

2. Dropshipping Suppliers: Low-Risk Product Sourcing

Dropshipping suppliers are another fantastic option for Shopify stores. With dropshipping, you don’t need to invest in inventory. Instead, when a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to them. Shopify dropshipping suppliers like Spocket are great examples of reliable partners that offer fast shipping from the US and EU. This method reduces risk, as you don’t need to hold stock, making it an ideal solution for those just starting out or those looking to test different products.

3. Manufacturers: Custom Products for Your Brand

Working with manufacturers is a great way to offer exclusive products. By sourcing products directly from manufacturers, you can often customize them to suit your brand. For example, sourcing products from manufacturers allows you to create unique items tailored to your customers.

Order White Label Products for Brand Flexibility

White label products are ready-made products you can rebrand as your own. These products are manufactured and packaged without branding, allowing you to add your own logo and packaging. This offers flexibility in offering quality products without needing to create something from scratch. It’s a cost-effective way to build a brand quickly while offering products that align with your store's identity.

Commission a Private Label Product Line for Unique Offerings

If you're looking for something truly unique, commissioning a private label product line is the way to go. You’ll work with a manufacturer to create products that are sold exclusively under your brand name. This allows you to offer products that no one else is selling, making your Shopify store stand out in the market.

4. Trading and Sourcing Companies: Global Product Access

Trading and sourcing companies can connect you with suppliers from around the world. These companies source products globally, giving you access to unique items that may not be available locally. Whether you're looking for handcrafted goods or specialty products, trading companies can help you find exactly what you need. By leveraging their networks, you can source products at competitive prices and diversify your Shopify store’s offerings.

5. Trade Shows: Discover Innovative Products

Trade shows are an excellent way to discover innovative products and trends in your industry. Attending trade shows lets you meet suppliers face-to-face and see products in person before making a commitment. It’s also a great opportunity for networking and building relationships with potential suppliers. For example, if you’re looking for trendy fashion items, attending a fashion trade show can help you spot new designs and get exclusive deals.

6. Creating Your Own Products: Control and Uniqueness

If you have a creative streak, creating your own products can set your Shopify store apart. Whether it’s designing your own jewelry, creating eco-friendly home goods, or developing a new tech gadget, creating your own products gives you full control over the product line. You can ensure that everything is on brand, and this often leads to higher customer loyalty as people appreciate unique and well-crafted items.

Top Shopify Apps for Streamlining Product Sourcing

When it comes to product sourcing for Shopify, the right tools can save you time and effort. Here are some top Shopify apps that will help you easily source products and grow your store.

1. Spocket: US and EU-Based Dropshipping Suppliers

Spocket is one of the best apps for sourcing US and EU-based dropshipping products. Unlike many other dropshipping platforms that focus on suppliers from China, Spocket connects you with suppliers closer to your customers. This means faster shipping times and more reliable service. 

For example, if you're selling to customers in the US or Europe, you can offer quick shipping without the long waits typical of overseas suppliers. Spocket integrates seamlessly with Shopify, making it an ideal choice for Shopify store owners looking to streamline their sourcing process.

2. Alidrop: Source Trending AliExpress Products

Alidrop is a great app for sourcing trending AliExpress products. If you want to find products that are already popular on AliExpress, Alidrop makes it easy to import them directly into your Shopify store. This can save you time on market research since you can see which products are already trending. For instance, you can easily import high-quality electronics or fashion items that have proven demand, allowing you to jump straight into selling popular products.

3. Faire: Wholesale Marketplace for Unique Products

Faire is a wholesale marketplace that connects Shopify store owners with unique, independent brands. If you're looking to sell products that are not widely available, Faire is a great option. This platform allows you to discover unique products from artisans and designers, perfect for creating a niche store. For example, you can find handmade home décor or boutique fashion items that will help your store stand out from the competition.

4. Printful: Custom Print-on-Demand Products for Your Store

Printful is the go-to app for custom print-on-demand products. If you're interested in offering branded merchandise, such as t-shirts, mugs, or posters, Printful can help you create custom designs and fulfill orders. The best part? You don't need to invest in inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, Printful handles everything from printing to shipping. This makes it an easy way to get started with custom products without upfront costs.

5. DSers: Automating Dropshipping for Shopify Stores

DSers is a powerful app for automating your dropshipping store. It integrates directly with Shopify, allowing you to manage orders, find new suppliers, and automate your business. With DSers, you can quickly fulfill orders from AliExpress and other platforms without manually placing each order. For example, if you have hundreds of orders coming in, DSers helps you save time by automating the fulfillment process. It's a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their Shopify dropshipping business.

6. Syncee: Connect with Reliable Suppliers

Syncee is an excellent app for connecting with reliable suppliers and manufacturers. It offers a curated list of suppliers, ensuring that you have access to quality products for your store. Syncee is perfect for Shopify store owners who want to expand their product offerings by working with reputable suppliers. Whether you’re looking for dropshipping suppliers or wholesale products, Syncee helps you find the best options to fit your niche.

7. Creative Hub: Source Creative Products for Shopify

Creative Hub is a platform that allows you to source unique and creative products for your Shopify store. If you want to stand out with innovative items, this app is ideal. You can find products like custom art, digital downloads, and other unique items that fit your brand. For example, you can source exclusive designs or limited-edition products to attract customers looking for something special.

8. My Online Fashion Store: Fashion-Specific Product Sourcing

If you're running a fashion-focused Shopify store, My Online Fashion Store is a perfect app for you. It connects you with fashion wholesalers and suppliers, allowing you to easily source trendy clothing, accessories, and footwear. The app provides a range of options from suppliers worldwide, ensuring you get access to the latest trends. This can help you build a fashion store with high-quality, trendy items that your customers will love.

9. Lulu Direct: POD for Books and Other Media

Lulu Direct is ideal if you want to sell custom books, media, or other print-on-demand products. With Lulu Direct, you can create and sell custom books, journals, or even merchandise like t-shirts and mugs featuring your designs. It’s perfect for authors or creators who want to sell physical copies of their work without worrying about inventory management. If you're in the book publishing or media industry, this app helps you tap into a profitable market with minimal upfront costs.

Best Practices for Efficient Product Sourcing

When sourcing products for your Shopify store, it's important to follow best practices that can save you time, reduce risk, and help you find the right products. Here are some key practices to keep in mind for efficient product sourcing.

1. Conduct Market Research to Identify Demand

Market research is the first step in any successful product sourcing strategy. To know what products will sell, you need to understand market demand. Research helps you pinpoint what customers are searching for and what’s missing in the market. For example, tools like Google Trends or platforms like AliExpress can help you identify trending products for Shopify.

2. Understanding Industry Trends

Staying on top of industry trends is crucial for knowing what products to source. Trends can change rapidly, and being able to spot them early gives you a competitive advantage. For instance, if you’re running a fashion Shopify store, keeping track of seasonal trends, like eco-friendly clothing, can guide your sourcing decisions. Industry reports and trade shows are great places to keep your finger on the pulse of emerging trends.

3. Analyzing Consumer Needs and Preferences

Understanding what your target audience values is key to successful product sourcing. Conducting surveys, checking out customer reviews, or engaging with your audience on social media helps you learn their preferences. For example, if your audience is leaning towards sustainability, sourcing eco-friendly products can boost sales and brand loyalty. By addressing consumer pain points, you create a connection that can lead to repeat business.

4. Legislative Trends and Their Impact on Sourcing

Laws and regulations can impact what products are available for sale or what you need to include in your product descriptions. For instance, importing products to the US may require certain certifications, such as for health or safety. Being aware of these legislative trends can help you avoid potential issues. Keeping up with local and international trade laws will prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that your products are compliant.

5. Primary vs. Secondary Research for Better Insights

Both primary and secondary research are essential for gathering data on potential products. Primary research involves directly engaging with your target audience, like through surveys or focus groups. Secondary research uses existing data from market reports or competitor analysis. Combining both methods will give you a well-rounded view. For example, if you are looking to sell tech products, primary research might reveal customer pain points with current offerings, while secondary research can show product trends.

6. Always Get Product Samples Before Committing

Before fully committing to a product for your Shopify store, always request samples. This step is crucial for ensuring that the product meets your quality standards. For example, if you're sourcing custom print-on-demand Shopify products, getting a sample allows you to check the print quality, fabric feel, and fit. This will help you avoid disappointing your customers. By reviewing product samples firsthand, you can spot any potential issues early and make necessary adjustments before placing a bulk order or listing it in your store.

7. Source Locally When Possible to Reduce Costs and Lead Times

Sourcing locally can significantly reduce costs and shipping times. For instance, if you’re in the US and source products from local suppliers or manufacturers, you'll benefit from faster delivery and lower shipping costs. This is especially important for Shopify dropshipping suppliers, as fast shipping leads to better customer satisfaction and more repeat business. By choosing local suppliers, you can avoid long wait times and surprise fees associated with international shipping. Plus, it helps support small businesses in your community, which can be a great selling point to your customers.

8. Work with Multiple Suppliers to Diversify Risk and Options

Relying on a single supplier can be risky. If they run into issues, your entire inventory could be affected. To avoid this, work with multiple suppliers. This gives you flexibility and reduces the risk of stockouts. For example, if one supplier runs out of a hot product, you can quickly source it from another supplier. It also allows you to offer a wider variety of products, giving your Shopify store more options to appeal to different customer preferences. By diversifying your suppliers, you can ensure that your store operates smoothly, even when one supplier faces challenges.

What to Do If You Can't Find Products to Sell

If you're struggling to find the right products to sell for your Shopify store, don’t worry. There are alternatives that can help you launch and scale your business.

1. Turning to Print-on-Demand Services (POD) for a Custom Solution

Print-on-demand (POD) services are a great way to start selling without worrying about inventory. POD lets you create custom products, such as t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases, and only print them when someone makes a purchase. This eliminates upfront costs and allows you to test different designs and products. For instance, using services like Printful, you can sell custom apparel with your own designs while they handle the printing and shipping. It's a risk-free way to experiment with product offerings.

2. Consider Dropshipping for Low-Investment Options

If you're not ready to invest in bulk products, dropshipping is a solid solution. With dropshipping, you don’t hold any inventory. When a customer places an order, the product is shipped directly from the supplier. Shopify dropshipping suppliers, like AliExpress or Spocket, make it easy to source products without upfront investment. You can start your store with minimal capital and only pay for products after you’ve made a sale. This model works well if you want to test various products without committing to large orders.

How to Vet Product Ideas for Your Shopify Store

Once you have product ideas, it’s important to vet them before adding them to your Shopify store. Here’s how to evaluate potential products to ensure they’ll be successful.

1. Consider Product Costs: Finding the Right Profit Margins

Before selecting a product, ensure that it’s financially viable. Calculate your product costs, including shipping and supplier fees, and compare them to your selling price. For example, if a t-shirt costs $10 to produce, you’ll want to sell it for at least $25 to make a reasonable profit. A healthy margin ensures you can cover advertising, transaction fees, and still make a profit.

2. Product Size and Shipping: Reducing Costs and Complexity

The size of your product plays a crucial role in shipping costs and logistics. For instance, small items like jewelry or phone accessories are cheaper to ship than large furniture pieces. Sourcing products with smaller sizes not only reduces shipping costs but also simplifies the logistics. This is especially important for Shopify dropshipping suppliers, as faster and cheaper shipping improves customer satisfaction.

3. Understanding Product Demand: Validate Before You Sell

Before committing to a product, you must validate that there’s real demand. Use tools like Google Trends or check social media platforms for trending products in your niche. For example, if you're looking to sell fitness gear, check if products like resistance bands or yoga mats are popular. This helps avoid stocking products that might not sell well.

4. Ease of Sourcing: Simplifying the Logistics

Consider how easy it will be to source and manage the product. If you’re looking for wholesale suppliers for Shopify, ensure they can reliably fulfill orders and ship on time. Sourcing products that are difficult to obtain or have long lead times can create headaches for you and your customers. It’s better to work with suppliers who have a proven track record of delivering products on time and maintaining quality.

Conclusion

Finding the right products for your Shopify store is a crucial step toward building a successful business. By using the best product sourcing practices, such as conducting thorough market research, sourcing locally, and working with multiple suppliers, you can ensure that your store is stocked with products that your customers will love. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to source high-quality dropshipping products, Spocket is an excellent choice. With its focus on US and EU suppliers, Spocket ensures fast shipping times and quality control, giving your Shopify store a competitive edge. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your store, Spocket makes sourcing products simple and hassle-free.