Best Wholesale Apps for Businesses

Global Sources ContentUpdated on 2025/02/26

Hot Topics

Global Sources Exhibitions

Table of Contents

Global B2B Sourcing Specialists

Trading Powerhouses

Online Marketplaces

Trusted Wholesale Apps

Niche Platforms & Specialized Marketplaces

FAQs

The digital age has revolutionized commerce, and leading the charge in the wholesale sector are dedicated wholesale apps. These mobile-first platforms have become indispensable for businesses of all sizes, providing streamlined access to global suppliers, efficient order management, and a world of products at their fingertips.

Here's a closer look at 15 of the best wholesale apps transforming the way businesses source and manage their inventory:

Global B2B Sourcing Specialists

Global Sources

GlobalSources' mobile app extends its B2B sourcing expertise to your smartphone, providing a powerful tool for connecting with verified suppliers and managing sourcing operations on the go.

Download iOS Now

Download for Android Now

Key Features:

  • Mobile Sourcing & Product Requests: Search for products, contact suppliers, and submit product requests directly through the app, streamlining the sourcing process.
  • Supplier Verification & Factory Audits: Access supplier verification information, including factory audit reports, ensuring product quality and ethical sourcing practices.
  • Trade Show Access & Networking: Stay updated on upcoming trade shows, browse exhibitor lists, and connect with suppliers directly through the app, maximizing networking opportunities.

Best for: Established businesses, importers, and sourcing professionals looking for a reliable mobile platform to connect with verified suppliers, manage sourcing operations, and stay informed about industry events.

eSources

eSources' mobile app brings its UK-centric wholesale marketplace to your fingertips, connecting buyers with verified suppliers, dropshippers, and manufacturers within the UK and beyond.

Key Features:

  • UK Supplier Directory & Product Search: Browse a comprehensive directory of UK-based suppliers, search for products, and filter by category, location, and minimum order quantities.
  • Dropshipping Supplier Connections: Connect with dropshipping suppliers directly through the app, simplifying the process of finding products to sell online without holding inventory.
  • Market Insights & Trend Analysis: Access market research data, trend reports, and competitor analysis tools to make informed sourcing decisions and identify profitable opportunities.

Best for: UK-based businesses, online retailers, and dropshippers looking for a mobile-first platform to connect with verified suppliers, explore dropshipping options, and gain valuable market insights.

Trading Powerhouses

AlibabaAlibaba

Alibaba, a titan in the global wholesale landscape, offers a powerful app that brings its vast marketplace directly to your smartphone.

Key Features:

  • On-the-Go Sourcing: Browse millions of products, connect with suppliers, and negotiate deals from anywhere, anytime.
  • Instant Communication: Direct messaging and translation features facilitate seamless communication with suppliers, breaking down language barriers.
  • Secure Payment & Trade Assurance: The app integrates Alibaba's secure payment gateway and Trade Assurance program, safeguarding transactions and ensuring peace of mind.

Best for: Businesses seeking a comprehensive wholesale solution with a vast product selection, direct manufacturer connections, and secure mobile transactions.

DHgate

DHgate's mobile app provides a convenient gateway to its extensive network of primarily Chinese wholesalers and manufacturers, offering competitive prices and a streamlined sourcing experience.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-First Deals & Discounts: Access exclusive app-only deals, flash sales, and discounts on a wide range of products.
  • Low MOQs & Flexible Ordering: Benefit from low minimum order quantities and flexible ordering options, making it ideal for small businesses and product testing.
  • Buyer Protection & Secure Checkout: DHgate's Buyer Protection program and secure mobile checkout process ensure safe and reliable transactions.

Best for: Entrepreneurs, small businesses, and those seeking budget-friendly wholesale options, particularly for products originating from China, with the added convenience of mobile sourcing.

Online Marketplaces

eBay

While not solely a wholesale app, eBay's mobile platform offers a convenient way to source products at competitive prices, often in bulk quantities, with the added benefit of auctions and deals.

Key Features:

  • Personalized Watchlists & Notifications: Create personalized watchlists for desired products and receive instant notifications on price drops, auctions ending soon, and new listings.
  • Secure Bidding & Purchasing: Participate in auctions and purchase products securely through the app, with integrated payment options and buyer protection.
  • Seller Communication & Feedback: Communicate directly with sellers, ask questions, and leave feedback on transactions, fostering transparency and trust.

Best for: Businesses and individuals seeking unique items, competitive pricing, and the excitement of mobile auctions, with the added layer of buyer protection and seller interaction.

Etsy

Etsy's mobile app brings the world of handcrafted, vintage, and unique goods to your fingertips, connecting you with independent creators and offering a personalized shopping experience.

Key Features:

  • Curated Collections & Personalized Recommendations: Discover curated collections and receive personalized product recommendations based on your interests and browsing history.
  • Direct Seller Communication & Customization: Connect directly with sellers through the app, ask questions, request customization options, and create personalized orders.
  • Secure Shopping & Payment Options: Enjoy a secure and seamless shopping experience with multiple payment options and Etsy's buyer protection policies.

Best for: Buyers seeking one-of-a-kind, handcrafted, and vintage items; retailers looking to source unique, artisan-made products for their stores, all from the convenience of a mobile device.

Trusted Wholesale Apps

Wholesale Central

Wholesale Central's mobile app provides a convenient way to access its vast directory of wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, making it easy to find products and connect with suppliers on the go.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-Friendly Supplier Directory: Browse a comprehensive directory of suppliers, filter by product category, location, and keywords, and contact suppliers directly through the app.
  • New Product Alerts & Special Offers: Receive notifications on new product releases, special offers, and closeout deals from various suppliers, staying ahead of the competition.
  • Trade Show Information & Event Planning: Access a directory of upcoming trade shows, plan your attendance, and connect with exhibitors directly through the app, maximizing networking opportunities.

Best for: Businesses of all sizes looking for a free and easy-to-use mobile app to connect with a wide range of suppliers, explore diverse product categories, and stay informed about industry events.

TopTenWholesale

TopTenWholesale's mobile app simplifies the wholesale sourcing process, providing access to its reputable supplier network, product sourcing assistance, and valuable resources, all from the convenience of your smartphone.

Key Features:

  • Supplier Rankings & Performance Insights: View supplier rankings based on customer reviews, transaction history, and performance metrics, making informed sourcing decisions.
  • Mobile Product Sourcing Requests: Submit product sourcing requests directly through the app, specifying your requirements and receiving quotes from verified suppliers.
  • Educational Resources & Business Tips: Access articles, guides, and webinars on wholesale sourcing, importing, and other relevant topics to enhance business knowledge and success.

Best for: Businesses looking for a user-friendly mobile app with supplier rankings, product sourcing assistance, educational resources, and a focus on connecting with reputable wholesalers.

Niche Platforms & Specialized Marketplaces

IndiaMART

IndiaMART's mobile app brings the power of India's largest online B2B marketplace to your fingertips, connecting you with a vast network of Indian manufacturers, suppliers, and exporters.

Key Features:

  • India-Specific Product Sourcing: Source products directly from Indian manufacturers and suppliers, with a focus on industrial goods, machinery, building materials, textiles, and more.
  • Verified Supplier Profiles & Ratings: Access verified supplier profiles, view ratings and reviews from other buyers, and make informed decisions about potential sourcing partners.
  • Secure Communication & Payment Options: Communicate securely with suppliers through the app, negotiate prices, and make payments through trusted channels, ensuring safe and reliable transactions.

Best for: Businesses looking to source products from India, particularly for industrial goods, machinery, raw materials, and those seeking to tap into the Indian manufacturing sector, all from the convenience of a mobile device.

DollarDays

DollarDays' mobile app puts the power of bargain hunting and closeout deals in the palm of your hand, offering access to deeply discounted merchandise across a wide range of categories.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-Exclusive Deals & Flash Sales: Access app-only discounts, flash sales, and limited-time offers on closeout, overstock, and surplus merchandise.
  • Low MOQs & Budget-Friendly Sourcing: Benefit from low minimum order quantities and competitive pricing, making it ideal for businesses with limited budgets or those testing new products.
  • Easy Ordering & Fast Shipping: Place orders quickly and easily through the app, track shipments, and manage your account, all from your mobile device.

Best for: Discount retailers, party planners, event organizers, and businesses seeking deeply discounted merchandise, closeout deals, and opportunities to maximize profit margins, with the added convenience of mobile shopping.

SaleHoo

SaleHoo's mobile app provides dropshippers and e-commerce entrepreneurs with a powerful tool to find verified suppliers, research trending products, and manage their dropshipping businesses on the go.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-Optimized Supplier Directory: Access SaleHoo's directory of verified dropshipping suppliers, browse products, and contact suppliers directly through the app.
  • On-the-Go Market Research: Utilize SaleHoo's Market Research Lab on your mobile device to research trending products, analyze niche markets, and identify profitable opportunities.
  • Dropshipping Resources & Community Support: Access educational resources, tutorials, and connect with the SaleHoo community forum directly through the app, gaining valuable insights and support.

Best for: Dropshippers, e-commerce entrepreneurs, and online retailers looking for a mobile-first platform to find verified dropshipping suppliers, conduct market research, and manage their dropshipping businesses from anywhere.

FashionGo

FashionGo's mobile app brings the world of wholesale fashion to your fingertips, connecting buyers with a vast network of apparel and accessory vendors, all within a user-friendly mobile interface.

Key Features:

  • Mobile Fashion Marketplace: Browse thousands of wholesale fashion vendors, discover new collections, and place orders directly through the app.
  • Virtual Trade Show Access: Attend virtual trade shows, connect with vendors through live chat, and explore new trends and styles, all from your mobile device.
  • Personalized Recommendations & Trend Alerts: Receive personalized product recommendations based on your interests and stay informed about the latest fashion trends and industry news.

Best for: Fashion retailers, boutique owners, stylists, and online sellers looking for a dedicated wholesale fashion app to source products, discover new trends, and connect with vendors, all from the convenience of their smartphones.

Faire

Faire's mobile app extends its community-driven wholesale marketplace to your smartphone, making it easier than ever for retailers to discover unique brands, place orders, and manage their wholesale purchases on the go.

Key Features:

  • Curated Product Discovery & Ordering: Browse Faire's curated selection of products from independent brands, place orders, and track shipments, all from the convenience of your mobile device.
  • Payment Flexibility & Order Management: Manage orders, track payments, and communicate with brands directly through the app, simplifying wholesale operations and improving efficiency.
  • Exclusive App-Only Deals & Promotions: Access exclusive discounts, promotions, and early access to new products, available only through the Faire mobile app.

Best for: Independent retailers, boutiques, and gift shops looking for a mobile-first platform to discover unique brands, place wholesale orders, and manage their purchases with ease and flexibility.

Handshake

Handshake's mobile app seamlessly integrates with the Shopify platform, empowering Shopify merchants to manage their wholesale business, connect with retailers, and process orders, all from their smartphones.

Key Features:

  • Mobile Wholesale Storefront Management: Create and manage your dedicated wholesale storefront directly through the app, showcasing products, setting prices, and processing orders.
  • Retailer Communication & Order Tracking: Communicate with retailers, answer questions, provide order updates, and track shipments, all from the convenience of your mobile device.
  • Seamless Shopify Integration & Synchronization: Enjoy seamless integration with your Shopify store, synchronizing inventory, orders, and customer information in real-time.

Best for: Shopify merchants looking to expand their business into wholesale, offering their products to other retailers through a dedicated mobile platform, and managing their wholesale operations with ease and efficiency.

Wholesale Lockers

Wholesale Lockers caters to the specific needs of food service businesses, offering a convenient mobile platform to browse products, place orders, and manage deliveries from wholesale food suppliers.

Key Features:

  • Wholesale Food Supplier Network: Access a network of verified wholesale food suppliers, browse product catalogs, and compare prices from multiple vendors.
  • Streamlined Ordering & Delivery Management: Place orders, schedule deliveries, and track order status in real-time, simplifying the procurement process for food service businesses.
  • Inventory Management & Order History: Manage inventory levels, track order history, and reorder frequently purchased items with ease, optimizing stock levels and reducing waste.

Best for: Restaurants, cafes, bars, caterers, and other food service businesses looking for a dedicated wholesale app to source food products, manage orders, and streamline their supply chain operations.

These 15 wholesale apps represent the forefront of innovation in the wholesale industry, empowering businesses of all sizes to connect with suppliers, source products, and manage their operations with unprecedented ease and efficiency. As the mobile-first era continues to shape the way we do business, these apps will play an increasingly vital role in the success and growth of wholesale businesses worldwide.

FAQs

What is a Wholesale App?

A wholesale app is a mobile application designed to streamline and simplify the process of buying and selling goods in bulk at discounted prices. These apps act as digital marketplaces, connecting businesses that sell products (manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers) with businesses that want to purchase those products in larger quantities (retailers, resellers, other businesses).

Here's a breakdown of what a wholesale app offers:

For Buyers:

  • Convenient Sourcing: Browse a vast selection of products from various suppliers, all within a single app, eliminating the need to navigate multiple websites or physical stores.
  • Competitive Pricing & Bulk Discounts: Access wholesale pricing and benefit from bulk discounts, allowing businesses to increase their profit margins.
  • Simplified Ordering & Payment: Place orders directly through the app, often with flexible payment options like net terms or credit lines, streamlining the purchasing process.
  • Order Tracking & Delivery Updates: Track orders in real-time, receive delivery updates, and manage returns or exchanges, ensuring transparency and control over the supply chain.
  • Market Insights & Trend Analysis: Some wholesale apps provide valuable market data, trend reports, and competitor analysis tools, empowering businesses to make informed sourcing decisions.

For Sellers:

  • Expanded Market Reach: Reach a wider audience of potential buyers, including retailers, resellers, and other businesses looking to purchase wholesale products.
  • Streamlined Order Management: Manage orders, track inventory, and process payments efficiently, often with automated features to save time and reduce errors.
  • Direct Communication with Buyers: Communicate directly with buyers through in-app messaging, answer questions, provide product information, and build stronger relationships.
  • Marketing & Promotional Opportunities: Leverage app features to promote products, run special offers, and participate in virtual trade shows, increasing brand visibility and driving sales.

Benefits of Using a Wholesale App:

  • Convenience & Accessibility: Source products and manage wholesale operations from anywhere, anytime, using your smartphone or tablet.
  • Cost Savings & Increased Efficiency: Benefit from competitive pricing, bulk discounts, and streamlined processes, reducing costs and increasing operational efficiency.
  • Wider Product Selection & Supplier Network: Access a vast and diverse range of products from a global network of suppliers, expanding sourcing options.
  • Improved Inventory Management: Track inventory levels, manage orders, and receive delivery updates in real-time, optimizing stock levels and reducing waste.
  • Enhanced Business Insights: Gain valuable market insights, trend analysis, and competitor data to make informed sourcing and business decisions.

Examples of Popular Wholesale Apps:

  • GlobalSources
  • Alibaba
  • DHgate
  • Faire
  • Handshake
  • SaleHoo
  • Wholesale Central
  • TopTenWholesale

Wholesale apps are transforming the way businesses buy and sell goods in bulk, providing a convenient, cost-effective, and efficient solution for both buyers and sellers in today's digital marketplace.

Does Shopify Have a Wholesale Program?

Yes, Shopify offers a wholesale program called Shopify Wholesale. It's not a standalone app but a built-in feature available to merchants using Shopify Plus, their enterprise-level plan.

Here's how Shopify Wholesale works:

  1. Shopify Plus Subscription: You'll need to be subscribed to the Shopify Plus plan to access the wholesale features.
  2. Wholesale Channel Activation: Once on Shopify Plus, you can activate the wholesale channel directly within your Shopify admin panel.
  3. Wholesale Storefront Creation: Create a dedicated, password-protected wholesale storefront that's separate from your main retail website.
  4. Wholesale Pricing & Customer Groups: Set up tiered pricing for different customer groups (e.g., retailers, volume buyers) and manage customer accounts with specific pricing rules.
  5. Order Management & Fulfillment: Process wholesale orders, manage invoices, and fulfill orders using your existing Shopify inventory and shipping settings.

Key Features of Shopify Wholesale:

  • Integrated Wholesale Storefront: Create a seamless wholesale experience within your existing Shopify website, maintaining brand consistency.
  • Customizable Pricing & Minimum Order Quantities: Set different pricing tiers and minimum order quantities for various customer groups, tailoring your offerings to different buyer types.
  • Streamlined Order Management: Manage wholesale orders alongside your retail orders, using your existing Shopify workflows and fulfillment processes.
  • Customer Account Management: Create and manage wholesale customer accounts, track order history, and provide personalized experiences.
  • Sales Reports & Analytics: Track wholesale sales performance, analyze customer behavior, and gain insights to optimize your wholesale operations.

Benefits of Using Shopify Wholesale:

  • Seamless Integration with Shopify: If you're already using Shopify, the wholesale channel integrates seamlessly with your existing store, simplifying setup and management.
  • Centralized Inventory & Order Management: Manage your entire business, including retail and wholesale, from a single platform, streamlining operations and reducing complexity.
  • Professional & Customizable Storefront: Create a branded wholesale storefront that aligns with your brand identity and provides a professional experience for wholesale buyers.
  • Flexible Pricing & Order Rules: Cater to different buyer types with tiered pricing, minimum order quantities, and custom pricing rules.
  • Detailed Reporting & Analytics: Track wholesale performance, analyze customer data, and gain insights to optimize your wholesale strategy.

Is Shopify Wholesale Right for You?

Shopify Wholesale is a robust solution for businesses already using Shopify Plus that want to expand into wholesale or streamline their existing wholesale operations. However, if you're not on Shopify Plus or need a standalone wholesale solution, other wholesale apps and platforms might be a better fit.

Can I Buy Wholesale Items?

Yes, you can buy wholesale items, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Who Can Buy Wholesale?

  • Businesses: Most wholesalers primarily sell to businesses, assuming you're buying products for resale or business use. You'll often need a business license or tax ID to create an account and make purchases.
  • Individuals: Some wholesalers may allow individuals to buy in bulk, but they might have higher minimum order quantities or require you to provide proof of resale intent.

2. Where to Buy Wholesale Items:

  • Online Wholesale Marketplaces: Platforms like Alibaba, DHgate, GlobalSources, and Faire connect buyers with a vast network of wholesalers and manufacturers.
  • Wholesale Apps: Dedicated wholesale apps like Handshake, SaleHoo, and Wholesale Central offer a convenient way to source products and manage wholesale purchases.
  • Direct from Manufacturers: Contact manufacturers directly to inquire about wholesale pricing and minimum order quantities.
  • Trade Shows: Attend industry trade shows to connect with wholesalers and manufacturers in person, view products, and negotiate deals.
  • Local Wholesale Clubs: Some areas have local wholesale clubs that offer membership-based access to discounted products in bulk.

3. Things to Consider When Buying Wholesale:

  • Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Wholesalers often have minimum order quantities, requiring you to purchase a certain number of units per product.
  • Pricing & Payment Terms: Inquire about pricing tiers, bulk discounts, and payment terms (e.g., net 30, credit lines) before making a purchase.
  • Shipping Costs & Logistics: Factor in shipping costs and logistics when calculating your overall expenses. Some wholesalers offer free shipping for larger orders.
  • Product Quality & Authenticity: Ensure you're sourcing products from reputable wholesalers and verify product quality and authenticity before making a large purchase.
  • Returns & Exchange Policies: Familiarize yourself with the wholesaler's return and exchange policies in case you need to return or exchange any products.

Tips for Buying Wholesale:

  • Do Your Research: Thoroughly research wholesalers, compare pricing, read reviews, and verify their legitimacy before making a purchase.
  • Start Small: If you're new to wholesale, start with smaller orders to test product quality, supplier reliability, and customer demand.
  • Negotiate Prices: Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for larger orders. Wholesalers are often open to price adjustments for bulk purchases.
  • Build Relationships: Establish strong relationships with your wholesalers by communicating clearly, paying on time, and providing feedback.

Buying wholesale can be a great way for businesses and individuals to access products at lower prices, increase profit margins, and gain a competitive edge. By following these tips and doing your research, you can navigate the world of wholesale purchasing with confidence and success.

What is the DHgate App?

The DHgate app is the mobile version of DHgate.com, a popular online marketplace that connects buyers with primarily Chinese wholesalers and manufacturers. It's known for offering a vast selection of products at very competitive prices, often with lower minimum order quantities (MOQs) compared to other platforms.

Here's a closer look at the DHgate app:

Key Features:

  • Mobile-First Shopping Experience: Browse millions of products across various categories, from electronics and fashion to home goods and beauty products, all optimized for a seamless mobile browsing experience.
  • Direct Communication with Suppliers: Connect with Chinese suppliers directly through the app's built-in messaging system, ask questions, negotiate prices, and track orders.
  • Secure Payment & Buyer Protection: Make secure payments through the app using various payment methods, including PayPal, credit cards, and DHgate's own secure payment gateway. The platform also offers buyer protection programs to safeguard against fraudulent activities and product quality issues.
  • Low MOQs & Flexible Ordering: Many suppliers on DHgate offer lower MOQs compared to other platforms, making it easier for small businesses and individuals to buy wholesale. The app also supports flexible ordering options, allowing you to combine products from different suppliers into a single order.

Things to Consider When Using the DHgate App:

  • Product Quality & Authenticity: While DHgate has measures in place to combat counterfeit products, it's essential to thoroughly research suppliers, read reviews, and verify product authenticity before making a purchase, especially for branded items.
  • Shipping Times & Costs: Shipping times from China can be longer compared to domestic suppliers, and shipping costs can vary depending on the supplier, product weight, and shipping method. Factor in these costs and potential delays when placing orders.
  • Communication Barriers: While the app offers translation features, communication with some suppliers might still be challenging due to language barriers. Be patient, use clear and concise language, and consider using translation tools to facilitate communication.

Also Read:

Source the latest products from verified suppliers on our global sourcing platform, or install our app. Subscribe to our magazines for more in-depth insights and product discovery.

More Sourcing News

  • Leave us Feedback

  • Download App

    Scan the QR code to download

    iOS & Android
    iOS & Android
    (Mainland China)