Articles on: SaleHoo Directory

How to contact and engage with suppliers?

Once you've found a potential supplier in the SaleHoo Directory, the next step is to start a conversation. Whether you’re inquiring about product availability, shipping details, pricing, or building a long-term partnership, the built-in messaging feature makes communication simple and secure.

This guide shows you how to contact suppliers, what to include in your first message, and how to manage conversations within your SaleHoo Inbox — all using the new and improved Directory interface.

Step 1 – Open a Supplier Profile

After using the search feature, click on a supplier’s name or the “View Supplier” button to open their full profile.
Here you’ll find:

An “About” section
Contact and business information
Accepted payment methods
Shipping options
Return policy
Brands they stock
Supplier badges and verification status

Step 2 – Click “Contact Supplier”

Once you've reviewed the supplier’s profile and confirmed they align with your business needs, click the blue “Contact Supplier” button on the right-hand panel.
This opens a built-in messaging window where you can send a direct message.

What to Include in Your First Message

When you message a supplier for the first time, it’s important to be:

Clear about what you want
Polite and professional in tone
Specific in your questions

Tips for a Better First Impression

Be specific about the product you're inquiring about
Include your location and preferred shipping region
Ask 2–3 direct questions to start the conversation
Avoid long introductions — keep it concise
Mention that you found them via SaleHoo for added trust

🧠 Pro Tip: Use the “+” icon in the message box to load a pre-written message template if you need help getting started.

Step 3 – Manage Messages in Your Inbox

After sending your first message, you'll find the conversation in your SaleHoo Inbox, located in the left-hand menu under “Directory.”
Here, you can:

View ongoing conversations
See reply times
Follow up with suppliers
Keep your communication history organized
Alt text: “Inbox interface showing empty conversation thread with supplier and sample message field”
Caption: Once you send your first message, future replies will appear in your inbox for easy tracking.

Use Notes and Tags to Stay Organized

In the right panel of the supplier profile, you’ll also find a section to add notes and tags.
These are perfect for:

Keeping track of supplier responses
Categorizing by product niche, shipping region, or business stage
Adding reminders like “Follow up next week” or “Sent sample request”

Following Up with Suppliers

If you don’t receive a response within a few days:

Go to your Inbox
Open the conversation
Send a friendly follow-up message, such as:

Hi [Supplier Name],
I just wanted to follow up on my previous inquiry regarding [Product Name].
Let me know if you need more information from me. Looking forward to your response!
Thank you,
[Your Name]

Common Messaging Mistakes to Avoid

Sending vague messages like “Hi, I’m interested”
Not stating what product you're looking for
Asking for samples or bulk deals too early
Using aggressive or impatient language

✅ Remember: clear, respectful communication leads to better relationships and faster replies.

Understanding Supplier Response Indicators

SaleHoo provides helpful response indicators on supplier profiles:

“Typically responds within X hours” – lets you know what to expect
Verified supplier badge – indicates the supplier has passed SaleHoo’s trust and safety checks

🔍 Look for Verified, Fast response, or US warehouse tags for the most reliable suppliers.

Start Building Supplier Relationships Today

Strong supplier relationships are key to long-term eCommerce success. With SaleHoo’s messaging tools, inbox organization, and vetted supplier profiles, you have everything you need to start sourcing confidently.

Updated on: 30/06/2025

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