How do I know which service (2A, 2B, 2C, 2D) I need? +
Start with where you are. If you haven't decided where or how to make your product yet, start with 2A. If you know you're buying but haven't found a supplier, 2B is your next step. If you've shortlisted suppliers and want to see them in person, 2C is your trip. If you have a deal in hand and need to review the contract, go straight to 2D. Most clients do them in sequence — but if you already have a supplier, you can start at 2C or 2D directly.
Can I have a multi-country tour? +
Yes, though we recommend focusing on one country per trip unless you have a clear reason to visit multiple. Multi-country trips add complexity — different logistics, different cultural contexts, and less time at each destination. If you need to compare suppliers across countries, we can help you plan a multi-leg itinerary. Just note that coordination costs increase and we'll need more lead time.
What if I want more than 5 days? +
Trips over 5 days are available — just let us know your goals and we'll scope accordingly. Longer trips typically work well when you're visiting multiple supplier hubs within a country, combining factory visits with market sourcing, or adding a leisure extension. The pricing scales with duration and scope.
Can you book tickets and hotels? +
Yes — we can handle all travel bookings on your behalf, including flights, hotels, and local transfers. A 20% service fee applies to all bookings, and all travel costs are prepaid by you before departure. This is an optional add-on; many clients prefer to book their own travel using our logistics recommendations as a guide.
What do I do when I run into language issues? +
Most factories dealing with international buyers have English-speaking staff or can arrange an interpreter. For supplier meetings, we can help coordinate a local interpreter in advance. Our on-call support also covers real-time guidance when communication gets difficult — we can help you navigate tone, intent, and negotiation language even if we're not physically present. For accompanied trips, a Three Flows advisor can provide live translation support at key meetings.
What does "on-call support" mean during the trip? +
On-call means we're available to you — by phone, WhatsApp, or video — during your business hours in-country. Think of it as a lifeline, not hand-holding. You handle the meetings and make the decisions; we're there when you need a second opinion, hit an unexpected issue, or want coaching before a negotiation. We're not managing your schedule or traveling with you. If you want someone physically present at supplier meetings, that's the Accompanied format — available on request with a custom quote. Local driver and guide add-ons are also available for select destinations.
How is the sourcing trip priced? +
Pricing starts from $500 for an itinerary-only (self-guided) package. On-call support during the trip starts from $1,000. Accompanied trips (where a Three Flows advisor attends supplier meetings with you) are custom-quoted based on destination, duration, and scope. All formats include trip design, supplier pre-vetting, a pre-trip briefing document, and a post-trip debrief. Travel costs — flights, hotels, local transport — are separate and paid directly by you.
