Start your online business · Business basics · 3 min read
How to Find USA Wholesale Suppliers for a Small Business
Short answer
Small businesses usually find US wholesale suppliers through online wholesale marketplaces like Faire, supplier directories like Thomasnet and Wholesale Central, trade shows such as Atlanta Market, Las Vegas Market and ASD Market Week, and by contacting brands and distributors directly. Vet every supplier on minimums, pricing, lead times, terms and samples before ordering.
Buying wholesale gives you control over quality, shipping and margins that dropshipping cannot match. The challenge is finding reliable suppliers, especially when you are small and cannot meet big minimums. Here are the main places to look in the US, with examples, and how to vet what you find.
1. Online wholesale marketplaces
These platforms connect independent retailers with brands and often offer lower minimums and flexible terms.
- Faire: a large marketplace connecting independent retailers with brands across gifts, home, beauty, apparel, food and more. Known for low opening order minimums and payment terms for qualified retailers.
- Shopify Collective: lets US Shopify merchants sell products from other Shopify brands in their store.
- Category-specific marketplaces: apparel wholesale sites such as Orange Shine and LA Showroom serve boutique fashion retailers.
2. Supplier directories
Directories help you find manufacturers and distributors by product type.
- Thomasnet: a long-standing directory of North American manufacturers and industrial suppliers, useful for sourcing custom manufacturing and components.
- Wholesale Central: a directory listing wholesale suppliers across many consumer categories.
- Industry association directories: most trade associations list member manufacturers and distributors.
3. Trade shows
Trade shows let you see products in person, meet suppliers and negotiate.
- Atlanta Market (AmericasMart): gifts, home, apparel
- Las Vegas Market: furniture, home decor and gifts
- ASD Market Week in Las Vegas: general merchandise and consumer products
- NY NOW: home, lifestyle and gift
- Natural Products Expo: natural and organic foods and products
- MAGIC in Las Vegas: fashion and apparel
Many shows require proof of a retail business to attend as a buyer.
4. General merchandise and closeout wholesalers
For variety and low prices, some retailers use general merchandise wholesalers such as DollarDays and Kole Imports. Quality and brand recognition vary, so these suit discount and variety stores more than premium brands.
5. Category specialists
Many categories have dedicated wholesalers. Examples include Bulk Apothecary for soap, cosmetic and candle making supplies, and Mountain Rose Herbs, which sells bulk herbs and botanicals. Search "[your category] wholesale supplier USA" and look for companies with business account options.
6. Go directly to brands
If you love a brand, contact them. Look for a "wholesale" or "stockists" page on their website, or email them. Smaller brands often welcome new independent retailers.
7. Manufacturers for private label
If you want your own branded products, US manufacturers can make or customize items for you. Directories, trade shows and industry associations help you find them. Expect higher minimums than buying branded wholesale.
How to vet a supplier
Before your first order, check:
| Factor | Questions to ask |
|---|---|
| Minimums | What is the minimum order in units or dollars? |
| Pricing | What are wholesale prices and suggested retail? Volume discounts? |
| Lead time | How long from order to shipment? |
| Shipping | Who pays freight? Where do they ship from? |
| Payment terms | Upfront, net 30, net 60? |
| Returns | What if items arrive damaged or do not sell? |
| Samples | Can I order samples first? |
| Requirements | Do you need a resale certificate or tax ID? |
| Reputation | Reviews, references, how long in business? |
Red flags
- Prices far below everyone else's
- No verifiable business address
- Pressure to pay by wire transfer only
- Refusing samples or small test orders
- Vague answers about lead times
Tips for small buyers
- Start with small orders to test sell-through
- Build relationships; suppliers reward loyal, reliable buyers
- Pay on time to earn better terms
- Keep records of every agreement in writing
For help deciding between buying stock and dropshipping, see dropshipping vs wholesale. For dropship-specific options, read the best USA suppliers for a dropship store, and for selling wholesale yourself on Shopify, see the best wholesale apps for Shopify.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a business license to buy wholesale?
Many wholesalers require proof of a business, such as a resale certificate or tax ID, depending on your state and the supplier. Requirements vary, so check with your state and each supplier.
What is a minimum order quantity?
The smallest order a supplier will accept, measured in units or dollars. Online marketplaces often have lower minimums than traditional distributors.
Is it better to buy from manufacturers or distributors?
Manufacturers usually offer lower prices but higher minimums. Distributors carry many brands with smaller minimums and faster shipping, at somewhat higher prices.
Sources and further reading
Platform features, prices and policies change. Check the official help pages linked above before you act on a detail that matters to your store.