Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I request exclusivity for the products I am ordering?

We are happy to negotiate specific exclusivity for ongoing volume orders at significant levels. Also, if a design has originated from the client, this is automatically exclusive unless otherwise agreed to in writing.

Can labelling and ticketing be provided?

We can supply clients labelling and price ticketing for their orders, however this is not included in the cost of the goods and would be quoted on. We can produce artwork if required and co-ordinate the production of labelling.

Confidentiality, Exclusivity and Intellectual Property

Source undertakes to provide a completely confidential service and not to disclose any information regarding a client’s product development, seasonal directional briefs or business practices. In return, we request that all creative direction remains the intellectual property of the supplier and all financial and business information remains private between the parties.

Do products need be orderd in pack sizes?

Yes they do, but it does vary and is indicated per product on the website.

Do the manufacturers comply with global ethical production standards?

Products are made under fair trade principles that include non-exploitation, minimum wage levels and fair prices to traders, safe working conditions, no child labour, recognition of talent, and the preservation of age-old craft techniques.

Does Source facilitate sampling?

Yes, and wherever possible we will negotiate sampling free of charge. However, in some cases suppliers will charge for sampling especially if the product is of a higher value. We also facilitate client-own product development and related sampling.

How are orders processed?

Please select the items and quantities you would like to order on this website, or via email from digital catalogues we can send you. On receipt of your intended order, we will confirm lead-times/availability with the various suppliers, then confirm your order with a sales order. We would then require a 50% deposit to action the order. Source monitors the order production, facilitates consolation (if there are a variety of suppliers), delivery to the shippers, fumigation, and all export paperwork. At this point the final balance of the invoice is due prior to shipping of the order. If there are any unacceptable issues once the goods are received, Source will arrange replacement goods, credit notes or refunds.

How does Source SA ship orders?

We have established relationships with a number of freight forwarders and we will always get several quotes for a shipment to ensure the most competitive pricing. For smaller orders or tight deadlines we air freight, and for larger shipments we ship by either LCL or full container. Most often we will consolidate shipments for a number of clients to minimise the shipping costs. If you are ordering FOB, and we are arranging shipping, we will always provide you with a quote to approve prior to dispatch. We are also very happy to work with your appointed shipper or courier.

How long do I wait for my order once I have confirmed and paid?

Production on all orders commences on receipt of a 50% deposit. No stock is held and this allows for the wide variety of choices, customisable product and client own developments. As all goods are handmade, lead-times range from 6-8 weeks, with very large-scale orders taking up to 10-12 weeks. The longest production cycle is for baskets and certain tribal artifacts, which can sometimes take up to 16 weeks.

How often do price increases occur?

Price increases occur every year in South Africa, in line with our inflation, and vary between 8-15%. Most suppliers increase pricing by the end of February, and Source will issue new price lists each year to all clients for previously ordered ranges. Some price increases happen later in the year and we will follow the same procedure.

If payment is overdue, what happens?

As all goods will be paid for in full to the suppliers by Source on collection, interest will be charged for late payments by clients as indicated on your invoice. For non-payment of invoices, after goods have been produced, debts will be passed on to a US debt collection agency, with interest and their costs added to the invoice total.

Please confirm how goods are packaged

Orders are packed with single wall inners and double wall outers, and are wrapped internally with blank newsprint paper, bubble wrap or aerothene that complies with drop-testing. They are marked with carton labels indicating client SKU, item description and quantity. Multiple cartons are palletized and shrink wrapped. Source does not pack to drop ship or pack individual unit cartons as a standard, but we can quote on this requirement.

What are acceptable levels of variation?

All products are handmade and vary in size, shape, colour and decoration. These variances add to the integrity, narrative and beauty of the product and the differences are within acceptable global standards for ‘handmade production’.

What are the minimum order values?

Each producer has their own minimum order value that ranges from $1500 to $3000, and is stated per supplier.

What are the payment terms and methods of payment?

A 50% deposit is payable on placement of your order, with the balance due after completion of production and delivery to the shippers, prior to dispatch. Payments can be made via Paypal, Wire Transfer or Credit Card. Source banking details can be found on each invoice. For Wire Transfers, please use the invoice number as a reference and email proof of payment to the accounts department.

What categories of product does Source supply?

Source works with over 100 suppliers from small-scale, independent producers to larger studios, employing over 100 people that have grown to be well-loved brands around the world. All products are handmade, artisanal and unique in the marketplace, and are sourced from producers who have high ethical standards. Ranging from decorative and functional ceramics, glassware, baskets, wooden pieces and textiles, to tribal artifacts, papier-mâché, beadwork and metalwork. The collections show variety, diversity and a rich assortment of materials and processes.

What is the best way to access further information?

We are able to supply comprehensive catalogues, look books, direction reports and curated selections including product and suppliers from this website, but also from a wide range of other producers. Source also offers a consultancy service working with product development, large-scale set dressing and curated presentations for special events.

What is the difference between FOB and Landed pricing?

FOB pricing includes the cost of the product, export packaging, delivery to the shipper, fumigation, documentation and packing into the container. From that point onwards ownership and cost of transport, insurance, clearance and delivery to destination passes to the client. Landed pricing includes everything from delivery to client, excluding local duties and taxes.

Where are the products made?

The products are handmade in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Ethiopia, Malawi, Cameroon, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Mali and various other African countries and are either produced in a studio, small-scale factory, or are commissioned from individual artisans working from home (ensuring they can look after their homesteads and children, and do not have to travel to work).