Suppliers, Trade Accounts, MOQs, Delivery & What Really Matters

If you’re new to wholesale buying or reassessing your suppliers, the process can feel more complicated than it needs to be.

Trade-only websites.
Minimum order values.
Delivery thresholds.
Different rules depending on who you buy from.

This guide explains how UK wholesale buying actually works, what to look out for and how to choose a supplier that fits the way you trade.

What is a trade-only wholesaler?

A trade-only wholesaler supplies products exclusively to businesses, not consumers.

This matters because it usually means:

• Trade pricing built for retail margins

• Clear separation between supplier and retailer

• Less risk of being undercut online

If you’re running an independent shop, buying trade-only helps protect both pricing and trust with your customers.