There are a large number of suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, designers and exporters in Bali and most of them are reputable companies offer a great service, providing quality products at very low prices.

That does not mean you do not have to do your homework when choosing a trade supplier here in Bali.

When choosing a company in Bali to work with, there are a number of things that you need to check out.

People here are very friendly and do not like to say no. So, don’t be surprised if the answer to your questions are all ‘yes’ and don’t be disappointed if you do not get it right the first time.

Can you make 300 garden sets in teak in the next 3 weeks?….. Yes

Can you get my container delivered to me in the USA in 6 weeks? …. Yes….

Can I have my clay pots painted pink and green? …. Yes… Yes… Yes….

These problems can be avoided by doing a few simple checks and your due diligence.

Spend time looking at their manufacturing plant and warehouse. How many staff do they have?

Before you let them know what you are interested in find out what their production rates are for a number of different items.

Do they make to order or do they hold stock. If they hold stock what levels do they keep?

How much of their stock goes overseas and how much is or domestic use?

How many containers do they send out a month

Do they work with one main shipping agent or do they work with many of them?

Who is their main shipping agent.

By checking the number they tell you and cross referencing you can calculate how accurate their number are.

Ask them for details of a good customer as a reference. Preferably one from a different country that is not in competition with you.

Speak with their shipping company and get some background from them too.

If you need large quantities at regular intervals try and find two or maybe three suppliers, that way if one is unable to deliver on time or there are problems then you will not be without stock.

A lot of people have been exporting products from Bali for many years and they have built up good relationships with the suppliers. Take time to get to know these people and they really will move mountains to try and get your orders out on time and in good order.