First wholesale filament order: a distributor’s checklist

Start with the jobs your customers print

List the customer groups you already serve, the printers they use and the parts they ask for. Separate everyday models, functional parts and appearance-led work. This gives each material in the opening range a reason to be there.

Use PLA Basic, PETG Basic and PLA Silk+ as three starting points to compare in the catalog. Compare them against your customers’ material and finish requirements, then choose the grades that belong in your opening range.

Keep the first assortment easy to evaluate

Build a simple order sheet with one line for each material, grade and main color. Add other color references separately, rather than treating a group of colors as one product. Record quantity and unit for each line; 12 kg and 12 spools are different requests.

Put uncertain choices in the notes. A color reference or displayed product image does not settle availability, exact color matching or the final spool and packaging format. Ask for these details against the products you select.

Give sample evaluation a clear purpose

Choose a representative part for each material and record the printer, nozzle, settings and handling used in your test. Photograph the same surfaces under the same light when comparing appearance. Keep the sample identity with the result.

Before arranging samples, agree which grades and colors will be evaluated, their packaging, delivery destination and any costs. Record the questions that must be answered before the first order, such as the finish your customers expect or the documents your market requires.

Send a quote request that can become an order

Include the material and color lines, quantities and units, proposed packaging, destination country and intended sales channel. Add your preferred timing as a request. Minimum quantities, pricing and delivery arrangements need confirmation for that proposed mix.

Review the quotation against your list, including any substitutions, mixed-color conditions, packaging and shipping terms. Keep the agreed version and sample references together before confirming the order.

Prepare the information your customers will use

List the product images, descriptions, technical documents and language versions you need for your store or sales team. Request the files for the selected grades and check their publication permissions before reusing them.

Keep any market or regional arrangement separate from the product purchase. A wholesale inquiry does not grant exclusive territory or other distribution rights.

Make the second order easier to specify

Retain the accepted product, color and packaging references from the first order. For replenishment, send those references with new quantities, destination and timing, and flag every requested change.

Use customer questions and your own sell-through records to decide what to reorder or add. Add a material when customer demand gives you a clear reason to evaluate it.