How to Source Products from India: A Complete Guide

Sourcing products from India offers tremendous advantages — competitive pricing, diverse manufacturing capabilities, and a vast supplier base. But for US businesses new to India sourcing, the process can feel overwhelming. Here's a practical guide to getting started.

Why Source from India?

India's manufacturing sector spans virtually every product category, from textiles and home goods to industrial components and disposable products. Labor costs are competitive, and many Indian manufacturers have invested heavily in modern equipment and quality systems.

Finding the Right Supplier

The biggest challenge in India sourcing isn't finding *a* supplier — it's finding the *right* one. Trade directories and online platforms can be a starting point, but they don't replace boots-on-the-ground verification. Working with an experienced sourcing partner who has established relationships and can physically visit factories is the most reliable approach.

At Unique Sourcing, we've spent 20+ years building relationships with factories across India — we know which ones deliver and which ones don't.

Quality Control Is Non-Negotiable

Never assume quality. Implement a structured QC process that includes pre-production sample approval, in-line production checks, and pre-shipment inspection. Cultural differences in quality expectations are real — clear specifications, photo references, and on-site QC presence make all the difference.

Managing Logistics

International shipping from India involves documentation, customs clearance, and freight coordination. Understand the difference between FOB (Free on Board) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms, and ensure your supply chain partner can handle end-to-end logistics.

Start Small, Scale Smart

Begin with a trial order to validate the supplier, product quality, and logistics chain before committing to large volumes. This approach minimizes risk and gives you real data to make informed decisions.