Should you use a sourcing agent or go direct to the factory?
Going direct to a factory can be cheaper if you order large volumes, already know the market and can manage quality and shipping yourself. A sourcing agent makes more sense when your orders are smaller, you are new to a country, or you need export and compliance paperwork handled. Many brands start with an agent and go direct later.
| Sourcing agent | Factory direct | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimums | Lower — agent groups orders | Set by the factory |
| Price | Includes the agent's fee | Lowest at high volume |
| Quality control | Agent inspects | You inspect |
| Paperwork | Agent handles | You handle |
| Best for | New brands, small runs, new countries | Large, repeat programmes |
When an agent is worth it
When one rejected shipment would cost more than the fee. That is most first orders in a new country.
When to go direct
When you order the same styles in large volumes, season after season, and have someone who can visit the factory.
Where we sit
We are a clothing sourcing agent in Egypt. We work FOB from QIZ-registered factories and handle sampling, production, inspection by our own specialist, and all export documents. We stand in the middle, so any rework cost is settled with the factory, not passed to you. If you outgrow us, we'll tell you.
Questions
Do agents add a lot to the price?
It depends on the agent. Ask how they are paid and whether the factory price is shown to you.
Will I know which factory makes my goods?
With us, yes — the factory appears on the export documents anyway.