Frequently Asked Questions
Knowledge, tips & tricks, and tools to help your business succeed.
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General FAQ
What is a Product Sourcing Agency?
A Product Sourcing Agency connects businesses with manufacturers and suppliers worldwide. At Importivity, we specialize in finding cost-effective, high-quality production partners tailored to your needs.
What industries do you work with?
We serve a wide range of industries, including consumer goods, electronics, textiles, construction materials, and packaging. No matter your niche, we’ll help you source the best products at competitive prices.
Why should I use Importivity instead of sourcing on my own?
Sourcing on your own can be risky and time-consuming. With Importivity, you gain access to a global network of trusted manufacturers, expert negotiations, and streamlined logistics, reducing the risk of delays or subpar quality.
How long does the sourcing process take?
We focus on Vietnam, China, Mexico, and the United States, but our global network enables us to source from many regions based on your needs.
What other services does Importivity offer?
In addition to product sourcing, we offer supply chain management, import-export consulting, shipping logistics, and manufacturer restoration services to help streamline your entire operation.
About Importivity
What industries does Importivity specialize in?
Importivity specializes in plastics, metals, textiles, and electronics sourcing, with proven results across multiple sectors. Our experience allows us to navigate unique industry requirements, compliance needs, and supplier vetting processes.
Who can benefit from Importivity’s services?How does Importivity reduce landed costs?
We break down every element of landed costs; including FOB pricing, tariffs, shipping, and customs fees to uncover hidden expenses. By leveraging tariff-aware sourcing and regional diversification, we consistently help clients lower costs without sacrificing quality.
Why choose Importivity over other sourcing agencies?
Unlike many sourcing agents, Importivity is a full-service product sourcing agency. We provide vetted suppliers, transparent pricing, compliance checks, and long-term supply chain strategies. Clients choose us because we deliver measurable results, not just introductions.
Can Importivity improve my supply chain timelines?
Yes. Our global team ensures factories are properly vetted and timelines are clearly defined before production begins. With regional alternatives in China, Vietnam, and Mexico, we can mitigate delays and speed up delivery to your market.
What makes Importivity a trusted partner?
Our reputation is built on transparency, proven expertise, and long-term results. By treating every project as if it were our own, we’ve earned the trust of clients looking to transform sourcing from a cost burden into a competitive advantage.
Does Importivity work with startups as well as established brands?
Absolutely. We’ve guided early-stage businesses through their first production runs and partnered with enterprise-level companies to optimize global supply chains. Our systems are scalable to meet you where you are.
Our Services
What services does Importivity provide for product sourcing?
Importivity offers end-to-end product sourcing services, including supplier identification, credential verification, contract negotiation, QA inspections, compliance management, and logistics support. Unlike brokers, we manage every stage, ensuring reliable products, lower costs, and faster time to market.
Why should I choose Importivity over other sourcing companies?
Most sourcing companies stop after connecting you with a factory. Importivity is different; we oversee the entire supply chain, from factory floor to final delivery. Our expertise in tariff consulting, supply chain management, and logistics coordination makes us a true A–Z partner.
Does Importivity only source products from China?
No. While China remains a global leader in plastics, electronics, and metals, Importivity also has strong manufacturer connections in Mexico, Vietnam, India, South Korea, Japan, and the United States. This helps clients diversify and mitigate risks like tariffs or shipping delays.
Can Importivity help with small business or startup sourcing needs?
Yes. Whether you’re a startup needing prototype sourcing or a Fortune 500 company scaling production, we tailor solutions to fit your size and goals. Many small businesses choose us for dropshipping, packaging, and low-volume manufacturing sourcing.
How does Importivity handle quality control during manufacturing?
We conduct multi-stage QA and QC inspections, including pre-production checks, mid-production audits, and final container inspections. Our on-the-ground teams catch issues early, ensuring products meet specifications before they leave the factory.
Can Importivity help reduce tariffs on imports?
Yes. Our tariff consulting service helps businesses lower landed costs by using strategies like tariff engineering, USMCA compliance, free trade agreements, and supply chain diversification. We also monitor Section 301 tariffs on China and proactively build “Plan B” sourcing options.
Does Importivity manage shipping and logistics?
Yes. We partner with trusted freight forwarders and logistics providers but manage the process end-to-end. From optimizing shipping routes to ensuring customs compliance, we secure competitive freight rates and handle the details so clients can focus on growth.
What industries does Importivity specialize in sourcing?
We specialize in plastics & injection molding, metals & CNC machining, electronics assembly, textiles & apparel, and packaging solutions. Our wide network allows us to match the right factory to the right product, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
Can Importivity improve results with an existing supplier?
Yes. Many businesses approach us when they already have a supplier but face quality, cost, or communication challenges. We can renegotiate terms, audit suppliers, and introduce vetted alternatives to strengthen your supply chain.
How do I start working with Importivity?
Getting started is simple: complete our RFQ (Request for Quote) form, book a consultation, or contact our team directly. We’ll analyze your needs, recommend the best sourcing strategy, and provide a clear roadmap to move forward.
Factory & Partner Network
What is the best country to manufacturer in 2025 overall?
There’s no single answer… China remains strong for volume, Vietnam is increasingly competitive with tariff advantages, Mexico is ideal for U.S. nearshoring, India provides low-cost alternatives, and the U.S. offers speed and IP protection. The best choice depends on your product type, order size, and time-to-market goals.
Which country offers the lowest manufacturing costs in 2025?
ndia and Vietnam generally offer the lowest labor costs, especially for textiles, plastics, and consumer goods. However, businesses should consider hidden expenses like shipping, tariffs, and quality control before making decisions based on cost alone.
Which country has the fastest lead times in 2025?
Mexico and the United States offer the fastest lead times due to geographic proximity to U.S. markets. Vietnam is improving but still faces port congestion, while China and India require longer transit times for ocean freight.
What country is best for small MOQs in 2025?
Vietnam and Mexico are the most flexible with small-to-medium order quantities, making them ideal for startups or brands testing new products. China typically requires larger MOQs, while the U.S. can handle small runs but at higher costs.
How do tariffs impact the decision on where to manufacture in 2025?
Tariffs significantly affect landed costs. Chinese goods still face U.S. Section 301 tariffs, while Vietnam and Mexico benefit from favorable trade agreements. Importivity helps clients model these costs upfront to avoid margin erosion later.
What’s the safest country to manufacture from an IP protection standpoint?
The United States, Japan, and South Korea offer the strongest IP protections, making them ideal for products with proprietary technology or designs. China and India require stronger supplier vetting and contracts to safeguard IP.
How should small businesses decide the best country to manufacturer in 2025?
Small businesses should start by clarifying their priorities: if cost is most important, Vietnam or India may be best; if speed matters, Mexico or the U.S. make sense; and if product complexity is high, Japan or South Korea may be worth the investment.
How can Importivity help me pick the right country?
Importivity provides end-to-end sourcing support; from supplier discovery and tariff analysis to QA/QC and logistics planning. We focus on matching your unique requirements with the right manufacturing hub, ensuring your decision on the best country to manufacturer in 2025 is backed by data, not guesswork.
How do tariffs impact the decision?
Tariffs like Section 301 on China can raise landed costs, so we model these impacts and guide you toward smarter sourcing strategies.
Can I switch between regions?
Yes, many brands use dual-sourcing (e.g., Vietnam + Mexico) to balance costs, reduce tariff risk, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Why Choose Us
What factors matter most when choosing a manufacturing country?
The most important factors are total landed cost, lead times, quality control standards, labor availability, and risk factors such as tariffs or IP enforcement. The right choice depends on your priorities; for example, if speed to the U.S. market is critical, Mexico often wins. If scalability and deep supply chains matter most, China may be the better fit.
How do tariffs affect my decision between countries?
Tariffs like the Section 301 tariffs on China can add significant costs to imported goods. Countries such as Mexico and Vietnam often offer tariff-free or reduced-tariff advantages under agreements like USMCA or ASEAN trade benefits, which can dramatically change your landed cost calculations.
Which country is best for plastics, metals, textiles, or electronics?
Each country has unique industry strengths:
Plastics: China dominates in scale, while Mexico provides shorter lead times.
Metals: Vietnam offers competitive costs, while Mexico delivers strong nearshore fabrication.
Textiles: Vietnam is a top global player for apparel, while Mexico excels in automotive textiles.
Electronics: China leads in advanced assembly, but Vietnam is rapidly becoming a strong alternative.
Should I move my manufacturing from China to another country?
Many companies are diversifying away from China due to tariffs, rising wages, and geopolitical risk. Mexico and Vietnam are the two most popular alternatives. Each shift comes with transition costs, supplier vetting, and compliance requirements, but the long-term savings and risk reduction can outweigh the short-term effort.
Is nearshoring to Mexico always better for U.S. companies?
Not always. While Mexico offers proximity, faster shipping, and USMCA benefits, its supplier base is smaller than China’s and can be more limited by industry. If you need high-volume, highly specialized products, China may still be the better choice. The decision comes down to balancing cost vs. convenience vs. capacity.
How do I know which country is right for my company?
Start with your priorities and constraints, whether it’s reducing tariffs, cutting lead times, or finding reliable suppliers in a specific industry. Then, compare your top options using tools like our country comparison hub, and request a sourcing consultation to map out costs and risks for your unique case.
Which country has the lowest labor costs for manufacturing in 2025?
As of 2025, Vietnam typically offers the lowest labor rates among major manufacturing hubs, followed by Mexico. China’s labor costs have risen over the past decade, though its scale and efficiency still offset some of that difference. Keep in mind that labor cost alone doesn’t equal total savings; tariffs, shipping, and productivity can make another country the smarter choice overall.
How often should I reevaluate my manufacturing location?
It’s smart to revisit your country comparisons every 12–18 months. Trade policies, tariffs, labor availability, and shipping costs change quickly. For example, shifts in U.S.–China relations, new trade agreements, or supply chain disruptions can make a previously “best” option less competitive almost overnight. Staying updated ensures your sourcing strategy aligns with current global conditions.
Careers & Hiring
What does Importivity do?
Importivity helps businesses around the world simplify global trade. We specialize in product sourcing, supply chain optimization, and tariff mitigation, with trusted factory networks across Asia, Mexico, and the U.S.
Where is your team located?
We’re a globally distributed team with professionals across the U.S., Vietnam, China, Mexico, and Pakistan. Many of our roles are remote-friendly, with opportunities for travel and on-site collaboration depending on the position. If a position is remote, it will be clearly marked as “Remote”.
What type of people thrive at Importivity?
Self-starters who love solving real-world problems, thrive in fast-paced environments, and are passionate about global commerce and innovation. We value grit, clear communication, and a bias toward action.
Do I need experience in logistics or manufacturing to apply?
Not necessarily. Some roles require industry experience, but others are open to people with transferable skills in operations, sales, customer service, or tech. If you’re resourceful, adaptable, and eager to learn, we want to hear from you!
Is this a remote company?
No, not necessarily, though many roles are fully remote. We use digital tools to stay connected and efficient. Some roles, especially those involving factory visits or physical inspections, may require travel or location-specific availability. If you see a location assigned to a job listing, you should expect to go to the office there. If you see multiple cities, you should expect to travel between those locations multiple times a quarter. Finally, if you see a position marked “Remote,” you can expect that position to be remote.
What’s the application process like?
Once you apply, our team reviews your submission. If there’s a fit, we’ll schedule a quick intro call followed by one or more interviews depending on the role. We value speed and transparency throughout the process.
Do you hire internationally?
Yes, we’re proud of our global team and regularly hire talent from around the world. If you’re qualified and aligned with our mission, location won’t hold you back. Please make sure to filter for positions that are marked only “Remote” if you are applying internationally.
What if I don’t see a position that fits me?
We’re always on the lookout for talented people. If you believe you can bring something valuable to the team, email us at jordan@darkcyan-dinosaur-792740.hostingersite.com with your resume and a quick note on how you can contribute.
Client Success Stories
What are sourcing case studies?
Sourcing case studies are detailed examples of how Importivity helps brands overcome manufacturing challenges. They showcase real-world results like reducing landed costs, shortening lead times, and scaling production so you can see the systems and strategies we use in action.
Why should I read Importivity’s sourcing case studies?
Our sourcing case studies provide proof. Instead of just telling you what we do, we show you exactly how we’ve helped businesses like Whiskey Towers, Frawgs, and 420seven solve sourcing problems, improve margins, and grow with confidence.
Do these case studies cover specific industries?
Yes. Our sourcing case studies highlight results across plastics, metals, textiles, and electronics. This variety shows how our methods adapt to different industries while maintaining consistent outcomes: quality, compliance, and cost savings.
Can I apply the same strategies to my business?
Absolutely. While every project is unique, the strategies you’ll see in our sourcing case studies factory vetting, tariff-aware pricing, and transparent cost management are the same systems we use for all our clients. They’re built to scale and can be applied to your sourcing needs.
How do sourcing case studies connect to Importivity’s services?
Each sourcing case study demonstrates how our core services; Product Sourcing, Supplier Vetting, Supply Chain Management, and Logistics work together to deliver results. You can explore a case study and then connect directly with the service page that matches your challenge.
How can I get started if I want similar results?
If a sourcing case study resonates with your business challenges, the next step is simple: submit an RFQ, use one of our free resources like the BOM Template or RFQ Template, or book a call with our team. We’ll build a plan tailored to your sourcing goals.
Knowledge Base
What services does Importivity offer?
Importivity provides a comprehensive range of services, including product sourcing, dropshipping, bulk order facilitation, private labeling, white labeling, custom packaging, eCommerce solutions, consulting, and advanced procurement.
How does Importivity assist with product sourcing?
Importivity helps businesses source products directly from factories, ensuring competitive pricing and quality. Clients can request a quote and receive the best possible pricing within three business days.
Can Importivity help with bulk orders from China?
Yes, Importivity specializes in negotiating bulk orders directly with factories in China, securing favorable terms without compromising on quality. This service is crucial for preventing out-of-stock situations during peak seasons.
What is Importivity's role in dropshipping?
Importivity acts as a full-service dropshipping agent, managing supply chain aspects from product sourcing to order fulfillment. With offices in the United States and Asia, they streamline the dropshipping process for businesses.
Does Importivity offer private labeling services?
Yes, Importivity assists businesses in finding suitable manufacturers, aiding in design, product mockups, inspections, production follow-ups, and overseeing logistics, all under the client’s brand identity.
Tools & Resources
What are supply chain resources?
Supply chain resources are tools, templates, and guides that help businesses manage sourcing, logistics, and procurement more effectively. At Importivity, our resources include free sourcing templates, procurement checklists, and manufacturing guides designed to save time, cut costs, and reduce errors.
Are these resources really free to use?
Yes. All of the resources in our library; such as the BOM Template, RFQ Template, and Landed Cost Calculator are 100% free. You can download, customize, and use them immediately without cost or obligation.
Who should use these procurement resources?
These tools are designed for:
Startups preparing their first overseas production run
Growing brands scaling supply chains
Established companies looking to improve efficiency or reduce tariffs
Anyone working with suppliers, manufacturers, or logistics providers will benefit.
How do I use the Bill of Materials (BOM) Template?
Our BOM Template helps you organize every component of your product, including supplier, quantity, and cost. Simply enter your product details into the spreadsheet. You can then attach this BOM when sending an RFQ, ensuring you receive accurate, comparable quotes from multiple suppliers.
Why is an RFQ template important?
Without a structured RFQ, suppliers may quote differently, making it impossible to compare apples to apples. Our free RFQ template standardizes your requests so every supplier responds with consistent pricing and details; saving time and preventing costly misunderstandings.
How accurate is the Landed Cost Calculator?
The calculator is designed to provide a close estimate of your true landed cost, factoring in shipping, duties, tariffs, and other charges. While actual costs may vary slightly, it gives you the clarity you need to protect your margins before committing to production.
Can I share these manufacturing tools with my team?
Absolutely. Many clients share our checklists and calculators internally to standardize their processes. It’s often the first step in building a sourcing playbook for the entire team.
Do these resources replace professional sourcing services?
These resources are a great starting point, but they don’t replace hands-on expertise. If you need help vetting suppliers, negotiating terms, or managing end-to-end logistics, our Product Sourcing Services and Supply Chain Management solutions can provide full support.
Will new resources be added in the future?
Yes. We regularly release new checklists, templates, and calculators based on client needs and industry trends. You can bookmark this page or sign up for updates to get notified whenever new resources go live.
How do these resources connect to Importivity’s services?
Each resource represents part of the process we use every day in client projects. By offering them freely, we give you a window into how structured sourcing works. If you find value here, our services can expand that framework into complete, done-for-you solutions.
Contact & Support
How quickly will Importivity respond to my inquiry?
We respond to most inquiries within one business day. If your project is time-sensitive, call us directly for immediate assistance.
Do you only work with large companies, or do you support startups too?
We support both Fortune 500 enterprises and emerging brands. Our sourcing solutions scale to your needs, whether you’re importing a single container or managing global supply chains.
Can I get a quote before committing to a project?
Yes. Share your product details through our contact form, and our sourcing specialists will prepare a tailored quote outlining costs, lead times, and supplier options.
Where is Importivity based?
Our headquarters is in Austin, Texas, with additional warehousing in Chicago and Los Angeles. We also maintain full-time sourcing staff in China, Mexico, and Vietnam.
What industries does Importivity specialize in?
We specialize in plastics & injection molding, metals & CNC machining, electronics assembly, and textiles & apparel. Our global network also supports niche and custom manufacturing needs.
Can Importivity help with tariff and compliance issues?
Yes. Our team provides tariff consulting, customs support, and compliance management for U.S. and EU markets. We help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure smooth imports.
Do you offer in-person meetings?
Yes. Clients are welcome to visit our Austin headquarters or schedule video consultations with our sourcing teams worldwide.
Importivity Product Sourcing Experts
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At Importivity, we specialize in connecting businesses with reliable, high-quality manufacturers worldwide. As the fastest growing product sourcing company in the world we aim to ensures your products are sourced efficiently, economically, and with the highest standards.