Overview #
Whether you need a second source, a supplier for a new project or a partner in a new region, this guide takes you from a clear need to a qualified vendor in your supply list.
Before You Start #
- The product category and specifications you need.
- Countries you want to source from, or are open to.
- Certifications and standards a supplier must have.
Steps #
Step 1: Define what you need #
Write down the product (category and specifications), the target countries, required certifications and any company values that matter to you. Being specific gives better matches.
Step 2: Compare sourcing countries (optional) #
If you are open on location, use the Sourcing Helper to compare countries before you search. Free includes 10 requests, Basic 30 and Pro 100 per 30 days; Premium is unlimited.
Learn more: Sourcing Helper
Step 3: Create a Search Request #
Go to Product Sourcing > Search Request and select Create New Request. Fill in the title and description, company types, certifications, target countries and the product categories with specifications.
Learn more: Search Request
Step 4: Review the matches #
Open the request with View Details to see potential matches. Free shows a limited number of results and Basic shows them all. Pro and Premium also let you save searches, bookmark companies and preview profiles. If nothing matches, broaden your criteria.
Step 5: Check each candidate #
- Certifications and audits on their profile.
- Operating locations, to confirm where they produce or ship from.
- Their product catalog, to confirm they make what you need.
- Their digital warehouse, if it is public or shared with you, to see stock availability. Pro and Premium can search warehouses directly.
Step 6: Add the supplier to a supply list #
Add the vendor and the products they supply to the right list. If they are not on ScopeMatch yet, add their company and invite them; completing a profile takes less than 10 minutes.
Learn more: Product Supply
Step 7: Evaluate them formally #
If you use Vendor Management, invite the supplier into your evaluation workflow to collect and review their documents.
Learn more: How to Evaluate Your Vendors
Tips #
- Add certifications only when they are essential; each one narrows the results.
- Create separate requests for products and for services.
- Check your matches again later; new companies join and profiles change.
What’s Next #
Need help? Contact us at helprequest@scopematch.com.