Many people are turning to online sources to buy bulk or whole sale beads for their jewelry. This saves time, money and energy. However, before you order those beads online, whether it is from a site such as eBay or Etsy or a wholesale store, you need to consider these 6 things.

Are They Reputable?

There are a wide variety of online stores and twice as many suppliers through sites like eBay and Etsy were you can buy beads for jewelry. However, they are not all created equal. You will need to do a little research before you spend your hard earned money with them. The research can include these things:

• Reading the reviews. Whether it is an individual seller an auction site or an online store or wholesaler, you will need to see what other customers have said about them. This is one way to find out what their reputation is for giving quality and value along with any issues someone may have had with the company or the product.
• Talk to others who buy online. There is an old customer service rule that says, if a person likes it, they will tell one or two people, if they hate it, they will tell ten. This is true. Talk to others you know who buy their beads online. They will give you the good and the bad.

Do They Carry The Beads You Want?

If you are going to be making several different pieces or designs, you will need to look at whether the shop you are considering. You may want to develop a relationship with just one or two places or just order from wherever have the beads you are looking for.

If you choose to develop a relationship with just one or two, then look at the bead selection that they offer. It is in line with the styles, colors, shapes and types you are looking for? In this case, there probably won’t be one shop that has everything, but looking for those two or three shops that can full a good share of your beads for jewelry needs is imperative.

Are Their Prices Reasonable?

You wouldn’t buy other products for a business without shopping for the best prices, so why should it be different for beads? Look at the prices and compare different sites. But, don’t just go with the cheapest, go for the ones that have the best value in terms of service, delivery rates and customer care too.

Do They Have The Quantities You Want?

Do they only carry large or small quantities? Look at the amount that is needed for a minimum order. You may only want a 20 of a certain bead, but they require a minimum order of 100 beads or they may not have enough of what you want. Look at these terms, as it will vary greatly when you are buying beads for jewelry.

What Are The Terms For Delivery?

Is there a minimum amount before shipping becomes free? Will they ship to where you are? Do you have to pick them up at a store? All of these things need to be considered before choosing the shop.

Do They Offer Other Supplies You Need?

You may not want to have a huge list of suppliers. Looking to see if the online store or seller offers other supplies that you need, such as strings, clasps, cords or threads will help limit that list.

Buying beads for jewelry online is simple, but you will want to consider these 6 things before deciding which company to use.