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yellowbrickroad · May 27th, 2008

I am just starting out. Am designing t-shirts that I am having printed and intend to put my label on and sell to dept. stores and boutiques.

Blank suppliers (many of them) say they will only sell to me if i'm a printer or have a UPIC or AFI #. Can someone explain why they won't sell to me? Also what are UPIC and AFI #'s and can I get one?

Just trying to make an honest buck...

gmille39 · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by yellowbrickroad


	I am just starting out. Am designing t-shirts that I am having printed and intend to put my label on and sell to dept. stores and boutiques. Blank suppliers (many of them) say they will only sell to me if i'm a printer or have a UPIC or AFI #. Can someone explain why they won't sell to me? Also what are UPIC and AFI #'s and can I get one? Just trying to make an honest buck...

Do you have a registered business, tax id number, reseller tax id?
SanMar will not set you up unless you have a reseller tax id.

yellowbrickroad · May 27th, 2008

Yes, I am registered. It doesn't help. American Apparel will only sell to my printer.

sunnydayz · May 27th, 2008

The problem is that when you are signing up for accounts, to get wholesale prices you have to be a garment decorator to get wholesale. When you fill out applications for wholesale accounts and it asks what you plan to do with them you have to put that you are going to print them. And you have to choose that you are a garment printer or decorator. If you say that you are getting someone else to do the work for you then they will expect that person to purchase the garments wholesale and then sell them to you.

Needles & Ink · May 27th, 2008

Well you have to be a distributor or a printer with a certain amount of proven business in order to get accounts with certain wholesale companies. Most will not even talk business with you if you do not have an ASI or PPAI number. But in order to get one of those you will have to have a proven amount of business. A double edge sword.

I will tell you that alpha shirt is a little more lenient. You wont be able to go directly to american apparel or any of the manufacturers, but you should be able to get an account with the wholesalers that sell their products. All you should need is your resale permit and business info.

www.alphashirt.com

Hope this helps!

gmille39 · May 27th, 2008

Since we're on the subject of ASI, I just got an email about joining.

LittleDogy · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by yellowbrickroad


	what are UPIC and AFI #'s and can I get one? ...

Why do I need a UPIC?
If you’re selling promotional products or your customers are asking for them, then you need a UPIC identifier. With a UPIC, you are immediately recognized by promotional products suppliers as a qualified distributor. And if you plan to attend The PPAI Expo or one of the PPAI MarketShows in 2008, you must have a UPIC identifier to register.

What is UPIC?
UPIC—the Universal Promotional Identification Code—and The UPIC Directory offer free, easy-to-use, business-building tools that simply make sense. First-time orders will be a breeze as you source the products your clients want from the best suppliers in the industry. UPIC Credit Services and our comprehensive online directory put all the info you need at your fingertips.

How can I qualify?
As a distributor company you need to be in business for at least three months, have a minimum sales volume of $15,000 and provide copies of invoices from three different promotional products suppliers for at least $100 each, dated within the last six months (sorry, but sample orders do not apply). To see how other types of companies can qualify click here.

How much does UPIC cost?
Qualifying for a UPIC is fast, easy and FREE.

gmille39 · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by LittleDogy


	Why do I need a UPIC? If you’re selling promotional products or your customers are asking for them, then you need a UPIC identifier. With a UPIC, you are immediately recognized by promotional products suppliers as a qualified distributor. And if you plan to attend The PPAI Expo or one of the PPAI MarketShows in 2008, you must have a UPIC identifier to register. What is UPIC? UPIC—the Universal Promotional Identification Code—and The UPIC Directory offer free, easy-to-use, business-building tools that simply make sense. First-time orders will be a breeze as you source the products your clients want from the best suppliers in the industry. UPIC Credit Services and our comprehensive online directory put all the info you need at your fingertips. How can I qualify? As a distributor company you need to be in business for at least three months, have a minimum sales volume of $15,000 and provide copies of invoices from three different promotional products suppliers for at least $100 each, dated within the last six months (sorry, but sample orders do not apply). To see how other types of companies can qualify click here. How much does UPIC cost? Qualifying for a UPIC is fast, easy and FREE.

So far I meet two of three. I assume I'll do 15K this year but I won't know for a while.

LittleDogy · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Needles & Ink


	Most will not even talk business with you if you do not have an ASI or PPAI number.

What is PPAI?:

Become a PPAI member today.

The $18.8 billion promotional products industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Numerous new avenues for marketing—specifically online internet marketing—and an ever-increasing array of new marketing products are making it easier to reach all customers (former, current and new). In order for your company to stand out and attract new customers, you have to do more than simply contact the customer. You must communicate to the consumer that your product or service is superior to your competitors, and that customer satisfaction is important.

That's where PPAI, the international, not-for-profit trade association for the promotional products industry—steps in. By offering education seminars and industry research, as well as many other member benefits (40 in total!), we assist business owners with marketing plans that deliver the appropriate message to your audience. Ensuring that sales techniques and customer satisfaction services are top notch, and that you’re offering the right products to meet customers’ needs, is also our goal. PPAI helps guide your business toward success, evolving from where it is today to where it’s going in 5, 10, even 20 years from now—and we’re there with you every step of the way.

As a PPAI member, you receive more than 40 member benefits that allow you to gain a greater return on investment in a much shorter amount of time. Click what can PPAI do for me? to fully understand the benefits of membership in PPAI.

Contact us today for more information and to join PPAI. Call toll free at 888-I-AM-PPAI (426-7724) or e-mail membership@ppa.org. You can use this Dues Calculator to determine your investment by calculating your projected dues. Complete the membership application by simply downloading the PDF application. If you wish, you may fax your application to us at 972-258-3007.

PPAI Membership Application - Download the PDF application. You are welcome to submit your Membership application today via fax at 972-258-3007.

PPAI Membership Dues Calculator - Calculate your projected dues. Dues for a few of our fixed-cost categories are as follows:
Business Services (Non-exhibiting) $700
International $266
Supplier Representative $240

LittleDogy · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Needles & Ink


	Most will not even talk business with you if you do not have an ASI or PPAI number.

What is ASI?:

ASI Decorator Benefits:

Powerful Marketing Package Designed to Penetrate this $18 billion industry!

The first step to become an ASI Decorator Member is to review the marketing package we have compiled for you, along with exclusive access and special savings on critical business products and services you will receive with your membership. We carefully research and select each benefit to ensure it is an effective business-building tool for you.
ASI number
The ASI number has been the only true, consistent industry identifier, recognized by all distributors and suppliers alike for more than 50 years. The ASI number brings to the table exclusive benefits that other industry organizations do not provide. With your ASI number, in addition to your access to a wealth of products and services, you gain:

Credibility – the ASI number is the most respected and reputable industry identifier. All members need to provide solid evidence of their participation in the industry, and that evidence also works as proof positive of their desire to maintain the supplier/distributor/end-buyer sales channel.

Recognition – the ASI number provides instant recognition to network professionals. You may receive earlier credit terms and discounts. ASI suppliers are subject to regular ratings and reporting, so you always know who you are dealing with.

Exclusivity – Not everyone that applies for an ASI number qualifies – not even if they pay more. The criteria applied to ASI membership makes the ASI number something to aspire to and be proud of.

Many members use ASI numbers to manage their day to day business. Some common uses are:

Vendor identification
Customer numbers
Catalog classification
Credit references
Supplier ratings
Networking events invitation criteria
Special pricing or discount status
Preferred provider status

ESP Online™ for Decorators
The industry’s #1 business management and sales tool, with over 450 ASI wearable suppliers and 25 of the top non-wearable suppliers. Giving you access to more products at better prices. In addition, as a decorator member your business will be accessed in ESP Online by 30,000 distributors searching for decorators for their embroidery and decorating needs.
ASI Show
ASI Show hosts five national tradeshows per year in Orlando, Dallas, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago, providing ASI Decorator members the opportunity to network with thousands of potential customers. At each show, decorators will be able to meet and greet prospects who are looking for decorating services at a free networking breakfast.
Education: How to find clients; how to market your business
ASI understands that you may be new to the industry, and certainly new to ASI. We want you to take advantage of everything we offer as quickly and easily as possible. ASI will provide education in the form of seminars, webinars and white papers on how to find clients and how to market your business. You will also have access to important industry research that will help you understand your market and position yourself for growth.
Advantages Roadshows exhibition at discounted fee
The Advantages Roadshow is the single best attended series of traveling shows in the industry. It brings together top suppliers and quality distributors. If you enjoy seeing all the new product ideas and selling tips in Advantages magazine each month, then you’ll love the Advantages Roadshow.

The All-New Stitches Roadshow – Created to Bring Together Suppliers with Decorators in a Productive Environment!

Fast Find – Once annually
A directory of ASI network distributor members
Register Digest – Once annually
A directory of ASI network supplier members
Monthly classified listing in Counselor and Supplier Global Resource™ Buyers Guide
Drive business in with free classified advertising in key industry magazines from ASI
Affiliate and business services discounts
Save hundreds, even thousands of dollars in business services and discount like UPS® shipping, credit card services, artwork services and more – it likely could add up to cover more than the cost of your membership
Subscription to Stitches and Advantages magazines
The undisputed leaders in education and sales advice for decorators and salespeople
Multiple e-newsletter subscriptions covering wearables, embroidery and promotional products

Let Us Send Pre-Qualified Leads Directly to You

ASI InfoLine team of researchers refers your company to ASI Distributors in need of your service.

Savings and Discounts on:

Save up to 50% on credit card processing fees
Save up to 40% on Shipping Services with UPS, up to 65% off UPS Freight™
Save up to 30% at OfficeMax
Virtual Sampling with Technologo
One Free Artwork Revision & 5% off online orders with Affinity Express
Business Management Software with ASI Computer Systems,™ Inc.
Collection Services with CST
Mergers/Acquisitions with Certified Marketing Consultants, Ltd.
10% discount on Experian Smart Business Reports.

*See www.asishow.com for all show details and deadlines.
* PDF of Decorator Member Benefits

Rodney · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by yellowbrickroad


	I am just starting out. Am designing t-shirts that I am having printed and intend to put my label on and sell to dept. stores and boutiques. Blank suppliers (many of them) say they will only sell to me if i'm a printer or have a UPIC or AFI #. Can someone explain why they won't sell to me? Also what are UPIC and AFI #'s and can I get one? Just trying to make an honest buck...

Here are some t-shirt wholesalers you can purchase from that won't need all those qualifications: No Licensing Needed Wholesale T-Shirt Suppliers?

gmille39 · May 27th, 2008

I would be interested in hearing from any small companines that joined any, or all of these organizations, ASI, PPAI, or UPIC, and what did it do for their business. I know they are all quality, well respected organizations, and I will join at some point.

mystysue · May 27th, 2008

i dont belong to any of them.. well except i do have a UPIC number.. but ive never used it.. or needed it..

I have never been asked for any of those numbers from any distributor.. ..
resale id yes.. Im asked that.. but never one of the above numbers.

yellowbrickroad · May 27th, 2008

thank you for taking the time to reply.

gmille39 · May 27th, 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by mystysue


	i dont belong to any of them.. well except i do have a UPIC number.. but ive never used it.. or needed it.. I have never been asked for any of those numbers from any distributor.. .. resale id yes.. Im asked that.. but never one of the above numbers.

Right but whether you have to give a number to purchase things or not, I would think there would be benefits to joining, whether it be networking, getting leads on new business, training, discounts, etc. I joined the local Chamber of Commerce and I've been able to get a lot of business that way.

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Trouble Getting Blank Suppliers to Sell to Me..

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T-Shirt Sites

Trouble Getting Blank Suppliers to Sell to Me..

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