In the development of overseas clients, we often receive inquiries that seem "small"—low quantities, customized demands, and incomplete information. Many companies might choose to ignore or simply respond briefly, but we firmly believe: every trust is built on sincerity and responsibility from the very first contact.
Last year, we received an email through our company website from a customer in the United States. The customer wanted to customize a small product, with a low quantity, sending only a few pictures and approximate dimensions, without complete information. To provide an accurate quotation and feasible production plan, we carefully made a request: "Would it be possible for you to send us a sample? This way, we can measure and analyze the actual product to ensure an accurate quotation and feasible production."
The customer agreed and sent the sample via the most economical UPS mail. Surprisingly, we had to wait almost a month. The logistics information wasn’t updated for a long time, and the customer began to get anxious, as were we. But this did not affect our attitude. I, along with the logistics team, continuously followed up, proactively updating the customer weekly, easing their concerns, and trying to track the package status from all angles. Finally, after nearly a month, the sample cleared customs and arrived safely.
With the sample in hand, we quickly completed a detailed assessment and quotation. The customer happily accepted it, and the first order was successfully placed. What’s even more rewarding is that this was not the end, but the beginning of a stable partnership. Later, the customer sent several more samples using the same method, and each time, we handled them with the same patience and professionalism. Although the order volume remained small, we never lowered our service standards—always responding, following up, and delivering consistently.
Just a few days ago, I received a reply from the customer:
“I’ve had bad experiences before when establishing partnerships. In the past, I sent multiple batches of samples worth over $1000 to other suppliers, only to get no response at all. This made me very cautious… Thank you for being a trustworthy company.”
Reading this message filled my heart with warmth and gratitude. It was not only recognition of our efforts but also a reflection of the values we’ve always adhered to—honesty and sustainable business practices. For us, business is not just about orders and profits; it is about the trust and connection between people. No matter how small the order is, or how high the communication cost may be, as long as we make a commitment, we follow through completely.
This small sample, although just an object, carried a test and expectation. Through time, patience, and integrity, we embraced that expectation and turned it into a stable and trusting partnership.
It has also strengthened our belief that, in global trade, the most powerful force is often not scale or speed, but the reliability and sincerity that always remain "present." We will continue to serve everyone who places their trust in us, staying true to this principle.
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