I want to open accounts with distributors, but I’ve heard it’s very difficult if you don’t have either.
Thank you
Yes, you can start wholesale without your own warehouse by securing a legitimate commercial address you’re allowed to use.
The cleanest options are
(1) a prep center or 3PL that lets you use their address for deliveries and vendor paperwork (get a letter on their letterhead confirming permission),
(2) a co-warehousing membership or small storage unit with a commercial lease you can show to distributors, or
(3) a true virtual office with mail handling and a unique suite (many distributors accept this if you’re not misrepresenting it as a warehouse); avoid PO boxes and mailbox stores that look like residences, and never use a fake address.
To improve approvals, assemble a vendor packet with your company registration, tax ID or resale certificate, business insurance certificate listing your operating address, a professional website and domain email, a dedicated phone number, and two trade references if possible; some distributors will accept a home-based business if your paperwork, insurance, and plan look solid.
If you plan to ship FBA, confirm the prep center will receive pallets and apply labels, and list their location as your ship-from and return address where appropriate; if you plan to ship FBM, keep a small allocation of space or a 3PL SLA you can show on request.
Finally, be upfront about your initial volumes, offer to start on COD or card terms, and lead with specific SKUs you want to buy so the account manager sees you’re prepared rather than tire-kicking.
Yes, you can use a virtual business address or your home address in the beginning - many new sellers do this. Just make sure it looks professional and matches on all your documents.
Some suppliers might ask for a warehouse later, but for starting out, focus on building trust and showing you’re serious.
Are you based in the US or selling from outside?
Yes,you can.
Hi,I’m a shipping agent from China.We focus on FBA shipping service from China to USA/CA/Europe.Feel free to contact for details.Thank you.
Whatsapp:+8619076103080.