Learn how to submit custom sourcing requests to let verified suppliers come to you with tailored product offers.
Access 30,600+ verified suppliers and exclusive wholesale deals with the best margins.
Let WholesaleUp™’s sourcing team find the perfect suppliers for you. Learn how to submit a request and what to expect.
Custom sourcing is available on Premium+ (and Supplier Pro, which bundles Premium+ buyer access). Instead of browsing the marketplace, you submit a detailed request for what you need, and our research team searches our network and introduces you to the best matches. It’s perfect for finding suppliers for new products, specialized items, or hard-to-find goods.
Go to Dashboard → Custom Sourcing. You’ll see a form to submit a sourcing request. Custom sourcing is a Premium+ feature. Supplier Pro members also have access, since Supplier Pro bundles Premium+ buyer access.
Provide as much detail as possible about what you’re looking for:
Once you’ve filled in the sourcing form, submit it. Your request lands in the Pending tab of your dashboard with a reference number so you can track it.
Your request moves from Pending to Processing once our research team picks it up. They’ll review your request and search our supplier network, prioritising suppliers who can meet your specifications, price point, and timeline.
Typical turnaround is 2–5 business days, depending on the complexity of your request and supplier availability. More common products are sourced faster.
Once matches are found, the request moves to Processed and the research team introduces you to the most suitable suppliers via your WholesaleUp™ dashboard. You’ll receive messages with supplier profiles and details. From there, you can message them directly to negotiate terms, request samples, and finalize deals. Processed requests no longer count against your 3-active cap, so you can submit more.
The more details you provide, the better our team can find matches. Here’s what to include:
Product Details
What exactly are you sourcing? Be specific: “ceramic dinner plates, white, 10-inch diameter, food-safe glaze” is better than just “plates”.
Price Expectations
What price point works for you? Include your target wholesale price or price range.
Order Quantities
Your minimum order quantity (MOQ) and typical order volumes help suppliers assess whether they can serve you.
Timeline & Shipping
When do you need it? Where should it ship to? Lead time and destination help narrow down suppliers.
Special Requirements
Any certifications, quality standards, or special requests? Include them so suppliers can self-qualify.
Be as specific as possible
Product photos and technical specs are gold. The more the sourcing team understands, the better the matches.
Include your location
Tell us where you are so we can prioritise suppliers who can ship to you reliably.
Be flexible on MOQ
Strictly defining minimum order quantities can narrow results. If you can accommodate a range, say so.
Respond quickly
When suppliers are introduced to you, reply within 24 hours. First movers get the best attention.
Request samples early
Ask new suppliers for samples before committing to large orders. Sample quality often predicts bulk quality.
Common products (electronics, textiles, general goods): 2–3 business days
Niche or specialized items: 3–5 business days
Very specific custom items: Up to 5 business days
Complex requests or off-peak periods may take longer. You’ll be notified of any delays.
What Happens if Matches Aren’t Found
If our sourcing team can’t find suitable suppliers within the typical timeframe, we’ll let you know and offer suggestions: adjust your specifications, relax MOQs, or broaden your geography. Custom sourcing is a matching service — we work with real suppliers, so very obscure or unrealistic requests may not yield results.
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