Hi Cash,
Welcome to SaleHoo! :)
I completely understand how you feel when, after researching on various supplier sites, you cannot seem to see good wholesale prices. I am glad to have this chance to be able to help you somehow understand what is going on. :)
First, let me share with you that suppliers are in constant competition with each other, and seldom will you see the wholesale pricing published on the sites. Most of the times, the best prices are never listed on the wholesalers’ website. You may need to get in touch with the suppliers directly and / or register as a dealer in order to be provided with good wholesale pricing. There are also suppliers who will negotiate better prices with sellers that they have a good relationship with.
Then, if you are comparing the supplier pricing with the products’ prices listed at eBay, you may find products selling at prices the same as or lower than wholesaler. How can this be? Because lots of wholesalers sell on eBay directly to the public! Unfair yes, but it’s the reality.
What can you do about it?
* Order in bulk quantities to drive the wholesale price down
* Sell on another auction site other than eBay – there are heaps to choose from and profit margins are usually better. Craigslist is also a good place to sell if you live in the USA. (Let us know if you need more suggestions for places to sell online)
* Buy liquidation – this lets you get product for pennies on the dollar. (I’ll let you in on a secret, this is how lots of powersellers make money on eBay these days)
* Find a niche market with few competitors – collectibles and one-off items have amazing profit margins, even on eBay.
Let us know if you need help listing items at eBay. :)
Have a great day!