International sourcing is a strategic opportunity to reduce purchasing costs, access new supplier markets, and increase margins. But if poorly managed, it can quickly turn into a logistical, financial—and human—nightmare.
Here are the 5 most common mistakes we encounter at Feraya Trade—and how to avoid them to keep your international purchases safe.
1. Neglecting supplier verification
Common mistake: Trusting a supplier found online without thorough verification.
➡️ Result: substandard quality, delays, or even outright scams.
To do:
Request samples
Check certifications and solvency
Travel or go through a trusted agent
💡 At Feraya Trade, each supplier is audited and validated before any collaboration.
2. Underestimating hidden costs
Common mistake: focusing only on unit price.
➡️ Result: exploding costs due to transportation, taxes, or compliance issues.
To anticipate:
Customs fees and import duties
International shipping costs and insurance
Cost of quality control and returns
📌 Our team accurately calculates the total cost of acquisition to avoid unpleasant surprises.
3. Ignore cultural and language barriers
Common mistake: thinking that everyone works like in France.
➡️ Result: misunderstandings, delays, discrepancies in quality or specifications.
Good reflex:
Working with a bilingual and intercultural interlocutor
Formalize all exchanges (contracts, plans, specifications)
🌍 Feraya Trade acts as a local relay between you and your foreign suppliers.
4. Forgetting the importance of the contract
Common mistake: being satisfied with a signed quote or purchase order.
➡️ Result: no recourse in the event of a dispute.
To include in the contract:
Deadlines and late penalties
Clear payment terms
Commitments to quality and standards
🛡 We support you in drafting solid and protective contracts.
5. Not planning quality checks
Common mistake: trusting "on word" or neglecting inspections.
➡️ Result: non-compliant products, financial losses, customer dissatisfaction.
Our recommendations:
Implement quality controls at each stage
Perform a final inspection before shipment
Have a return or rework plan in case of a defect
🔍 Feraya Trade oversees each order with on-site quality checks.
In short: expertise prevents mistakes (and losses)
International sourcing is a fantastic opportunity... provided you have the right support. At Feraya Trade , we help companies avoid these pitfalls and secure their supply chain every day.
🎯 Want to avoid costly mistakes in international sourcing?
👉 Call our team for a free audit