Although fashion is dynamic, leather bags are timeless. Their durability makes them a must-have in closets worldwide.
Wholesale leather bags indicate buying and selling leather bags in large quantities. Since the amount is large, you get them at discounted prices. This trade typically takes place between businesses.
Changing customer tastes impact the leather bag industry’s global trends. Also, technology and environmental awareness contribute to these trends. Recently, sustainable and ethical leather products have grown in popularity.
Asia, Europe, and America have diverse market trends. So, there is room for expansion in the wholesale leather bag industry. The demand for a wide variety of styles and materials is rising.
It is an excellent chance for wholesalers to reach more customers and provide more products. This guide includes detailed information on navigating the Wholesale Leather Bag business.
Benefits of Buying Leather Bags Wholesale
Wholesalers and fashion brands gain from bulk leather bag purchases. Let’s take a closer look at those remarkable benefits below:
1) Access to a broader range of styles and designs
Buying leather bags in bulk gives access to various styles and designs that might not be easy to find in stores. Manufacturers usually have catalogs with lots of different collections.
With this much choice, you can please a broader range of customers with different tastes. They help you put together a unique collection that distinguishes your business.
2) Customization features, unique designs, and materials
Wholesalers/retailers can customize patterns to match their brand and clients’ tastes. You can pick out particular colors or color combinations and the finish on the hardware. It could also mean adding your brand’s name through embossing or embroidery.
Customization also lets you quickly adapt to new customer needs or trends.
3) Brand Premium
Creating a unique brand can make your goods more valuable in wholesale. Buying wholesale provides an excellent opportunity to develop and promote your brand.
Building a brand goes beyond selling a product. You market an experience, lifestyle, or ideals your target audience can relate to. You can charge more for this brand premium when you find a way to keep customers returning.
4) Opportunity for higher profit margins
High-profit margins is the main benefit of bulk buying. You can buy leather bags wholesale and sell them retail. It lets you keep more revenue. You can change your pricing plan more quickly now that your margin has grown.
Also, you may offer competitive prices while still maintaining a healthy profit. You could also price your products at a premium and enjoy higher returns. Higher margins also give you a safety net to run sales or discounts without significantly affecting your profits.
5) Flexibility in inventory management
Buying in bulk makes managing your goods more accessible and flexible. You can stock up on popular items with access to larger quantities of products at lower prices. Doing this ensures you never run out during peak selling periods.
It can be beneficial around the holidays or when demand might increase. Prudent inventory management can maximize cash flow. Thus, it can reduce the likelihood of sales losses.
What Are Different Types of Leather And How to Recognize Them?
Wholesale leather bag sellers must understand leather types. Let’s explore different leathers and how to identify them:
1) Full-Grain Cow Leather
Full-grain leather is the best available. As the natural grain remains, it is the strongest and longest-lasting leather. It is made from the hide’s top layer. Check for visible pores and an uneven surface texture to identify full-grain leather.
When touched, it should feel smooth, natural, and matte. High-end bags made from this leather last and improve with age. Since it’s the best and lasts long, it’s the most expensive.
2) Top-Grain Leather
The top layer of Top-Grain leather is sanded to take out flaws. Doing this will smooth it out more than full-grain leather.
Top-grain leather should be smoother and more even than full-grain. It is less breathable and durable than full-grain. However, it’s still a good choice.
Top-grain leather usually has a modest gloss and a uniform color. Many leather bags benefit from its low cost and high quality. Also, top-grain leather is suitable for regular bags. That’s because it stains less than whole grain.
3) Lambskin
Lambskin is silky and luscious. So, it is a popular choice for luxury bags. To identify lambskin, feel its softness and flexibility. Lambskin can construct more detailed and lighter designs than cow leather. That’s because it is thinner and more delicate.
Additionally, lambskin’s natural gloss makes it look pricey. Since it is delicate, it should be handled carefully. It’s excellent for high-end, soft-structured bags.
4) Recycled leather
As fashion becomes more environmentally conscious, recycled leather is becoming trendy. Recycling leather looks more uniform than natural leather. That’s because it has been ground up and put back together again.
They are an ideal option for people who care about the environment. However, it might not feel as elegant as high-quality natural leather.
5) Eco-Friendly Leather
These are leather made through eco-friendly processes. For eco-friendly leather, check Leather Working Group credentials. Vegetable-tanned leather usually looks more natural or rustic. It gets its unique color over time.
This leather starts stiff but softens with use. Eco-friendly leather may have minor differences that make it unique. This leather costs extra. Those who want high-quality products that are better for the earth find them ideal.
For more information, read this post – Top 10 Materials for Leather Bag Manufacturing in 2024.
How Leather Quality Impacts Price and Durability
Leather quality affects its price and durability. Here’s how leather quality influences price and durability:
1) Tanning process
Tanning is crucial to leather making. It dramatically impacts price and toughness. Chrome and vegetable tanning are the two main ways to get a tan.
Chrome coloring makes the leather softer and more flexible. It is a faster and cheaper method. Chrome-tanned leather is less porous and requires less care.
Vegetable-tanned leather costs more. However, it lasts longer and improves with age. It makes leather stronger and patinas beautifully. High-end, classic styles that value durability require vegetable-tanned leather.
2) Finishing techniques
Different finishing methods can improve the look and sturdiness of the leather. It can affect the cost and the length of time it lasts. Aniline finishing uses dyes that dissolve in water instead of a coating.
It makes the leather look more natural but doesn’t protect it as well from stains and wear. A light protective topcoat and semi-aniline finishing balance a natural look and safety. Better finishes mean that they last longer.
3) Leather origin impact
The origin of leather affects its quality, price, and durability. Italian tanneries are noted for soft leather. These leathers have rich colors and textures. American leather signifies good quality and a focus on durability.
It is often used in designs that are more rugged or classic. Knowing how the origin of leather affects your business can help you make smart choices. It can help you show customers how valuable your goods are.
How Many Types Of Leather Bags Are There?
There are different designs of leather bags out there. It comes in distinct styles to meet the wants and tastes of different people. Wholesalers and retailers must understand these types. Thus, let’s examine some popular leather bags:
1) Leather backpack
Leather backpacks are popular among college students and young workers. These bags are elegant and functional. For comfort, they usually have padded straps and back panels.
It makes them great for carrying heavy things for a long time. They are a fashion statement and a practical everyday solution.
2) Waist bags
Waist bags are becoming more popular again in high fashion. Thus, it makes them a valuable addition to many outfits and purposes. They can be worn across the chest or waist. Modern waist bags come in many shapes and sizes. They look good on both casual and stylish people.
3) Leather clutch & handbag
Formal gatherings and nights out require leather clutches and purses. These little bags carry only the essentials. Small, oblong clutches may or may not have straps. They are simple, classic, and more ornate statement pieces.
4) Leather messenger bags
Students and workers like messenger bags. They are fashionable and easygoing. One can wear it across their body to use them without using their hands.
Many leather messenger bags have more than one pocket to keep things organized. The style ranges from loose to more structured and business-appropriate.
5) Leather crossbody and shoulder bags
Many people keep these bags in their closets because they are stylish and functional. The weight spreads when someone wears a crossbody bag across their body. Shoulder bags are like messenger bags but worn on one shoulder.
Both styles come in various shapes and sizes. Since these bags are usable for casual and formal events, they are trendy. There are simple everyday bags and more structured, elegant choices for work.
6) Leather athletic and functional bags
Since athleisure is still popular, leather sports bags have found a place in the market. These leather bags are long-lasting and stylish. They are also helpful enough for people with busy lives.
A lot of the time, they have sections for shoes, wet things, or sports gear. Many leather sports bags are made of leather and other materials, like nylon or canvas. It gives them a sporty and classy look. In this group are gym bags and sports duffels.
7) Leather Briefcases
Leather briefcases are always a good choice for business people. The designers of these bags focus on making them useful with professional appeal. They have spaces for keeping paperwork and other critical business essentials.
Many contemporary briefcases include padded sections for laptops and tablets. They adapt to the needs of the modern workers.
8) Leather wallets and purses
Even though they aren’t bags, leather wallets and purses are necessary extras. Simple card cases and bigger wallets can hold cash and smartphones. Many new designs use technology that blocks RFID signals to make them safer.
Usually, for women, it comes with small clutches or wristlets for carrying essentials. It has options that fit different styles and organization preferences.
9) Leather hobo bag
Many people like to use hobo bags for everyday things because they are comfortable. These bags usually have one strap and a room inside. They are perfect for people who carry a lot of stuff around daily.
Since hobo bags are soft and don’t have any structure, they can mold to one’s body. Thus, it gives users a laid-back, carefree look. Even though they look casual, leather hobo bags often come with pockets. They come in various sizes and leather finishes.
10) Leather Laptop Bags
As remote working and digital become more common, laptop bags have become important. Style and function go hand in hand with leather laptop bags. They protect users’ valuable gadgets and keep owners looking professional.
Most of the time, these bags have padded sections. They are made to keep computers safe from bumps and scratches.
For more information, read this post – Top 10 Wholesale Leather Bag Designs!
What Factors Should Someone Consider When Buying Wholesale Leather Bags?
Here are the top factors to consider for bulk bag purchases:
1) Leather Quality
An essential part of a good bag is good leather. It’s like the engine in a car. A cheap vehicle needs much work and won’t take you very far. Full-grain leather is the best. This pure material is said to be stronger and last longer.
It gets a thick layer over time, like a good wine that improves with age. Top-grain leather looks smooth and even. Its cost is slightly less than full-grain leather.
Take a look at vegetable-tanned leather. This eco-friendly method makes a strong, flexible, and airy material. Hides from countries with a long history of making leather goods are often excellent.
2) Construction and Stitching
The best leather requires pairing with top-notch quality. Look closely at the stitching. If you want bags that last long, look out for tight, even stitches using strong thread. Loose or uneven is a red flag. Stay away from purchasing these bags like the plague.
Double-stitched seams are stronger. Whether fabric or leather, a good lining gives the bag shape. It keeps things from sagging and makes them feel better altogether. It feels nice and heavy to hold a bag that is well-lined.
3) Hardware and Zippers
People usually overlook this, but zippers and fixings are essential. Bags should have metal zippers that run efficiently. Plastic zippers that are too weak are a problem waiting to happen.
Look for gear that has a smooth and clean finish. Avoid bags with sharp edges or parts that aren’t connected well and could break easily. The hardware on a good bag should match the style of the bag.
4) Bag Design and Style
Your bags should appeal to your target group and be in style. Consider who you want to sell to. Stock a range of items that will appeal to many people. Give people a mix of basic styles that will always look good.
Talk to your wholesaler about the customization choices they offer.
Different colors, hardware finishes, or customization options can help you stand out. Being a little different can go a long way in a busy market.
5) Popular trends and consumer preferences
You need to know what your customers want to get the most sales. Eco-friendly people must know about any recycled leather or vegetable-tanned options you have. Also, the lines are getting fuzzy. People want bags that look good and are helpful, with pockets and compartments.
Crossbody bags are trendy, so buy different types and sizes. Today, people are always on the go. Hence, a shoulder bag makes it easy for them to handle their busy lives.
6) Importance of Online Reviews and Customer Feedback
Online customer reviews and comments can be constructive in today’s digital age. Read reviews of companies that manufacture or sell leather bags. Consider what other customers have said about their products.
Also, check out common good or bad comments about certain styles or products. This knowledge can help you make better choices. It can also help you determine what problems might come up with certain products.
How to Find the Right Manufacturer/Exporter for Leather Bags?
You must find a trusted Manufacturer/Exporter for your leather bag business to succeed. Here are some excellent ways to look for possible partners:
1) Search Online directories
An excellent place to start your search for leather bag suppliers is through an online directory.
You can often filter on these sites by product type, MOQ, and region. That makes it easy to find people who might fit your business well.
Alibaba
Alibaba is the largest platform to find many leather bag wholesalers. This platform connects buyers with leather bag wholesalers. The suppliers are primarily from China and other countries.
Alibaba offers a vast selection of leather bags in various styles and qualities. It provides buyer protection programs and allows you to communicate directly with suppliers. However, you must vet potential wholesalers to ensure the product quality.
Global Sources
It is another major marketplace to connect with leather bag wholesalers. The platform connects buyers with verified suppliers in Asia.
It’s famous for its strict supplier verification process. It can assure you when selecting a leather bag wholesaler. Global Sources also hosts trade shows.
This platform has fewer suppliers than Alibaba. However, detailed supplier information can help you make informed decisions.
Made-in-China
This platform lists products from Chinese manufacturers and wholesalers. It offers supplier verification services. Thus, you can easily find and evaluate potential leather bag suppliers.
This platform gives access to an extensive collection of leather bags. Moreover, all products here are available at competitive prices. However, you should be cautious enough to check the product’s quality.
DHgate
It is an excellent platform for smaller businesses and individual buyers. So, here, you can find leather bag wholesalers offering lower minimum order quantities. It can be helpful if you’re starting or looking to test different bag suppliers.
However, this platform may be less suitable for large-scale wholesale purchases. It’s a good option for sourcing a variety of leather bag styles and designs.
2) Visit Trade shows
A trade show is a great place to see the products in person. It also provides the opportunity to talk to possible suppliers in person. It also allows you to find out about new trends and inventions.
Look for events in your area or big fashion capitals specific to your business. These could be particular trade shows for fashion accessories or leather goods.
| Trade Show Name | Dates | Location | Focus | Link |
| Texcare Asia & China Laundry Expo (TXCA & CLE) | August, 2-4 | Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC) |
|
Website |
| China (Wenzhou) Int’l Leather, Shoe Material & Shoe Machinery Fair | August, 23-25 | Wenzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center (WZICEC) |
|
Website |
| All China Leather Exhibition (ACLE)
|
September, 3-5 | Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC) |
|
Website |
| Gifts & Home | October, 20-23 | Shenzhen |
|
Website |
Note:
We aim to offer a general idea of the trade show’s scope. Leather bags may be a specific section within a broader category. Thus, we recommend visiting the official websites of trade shows for detailed information. It will also help you confirm dates as they can change.
3) Direct contact with manufacturers
Skipping the intermediary and going straight to the source can be helpful. The pros are that it allows for customization and specific product requirements.
Also, prices might be lower, and there might be no issues regarding quality delivery. Look into leather goods manufacturers in places known for making high-quality leather. Some of these places are China, India, and Italy.
Manufacturers like Mherder offer premium wholesale leather bags at affordable prices.
Also Read:
2024 Top 10 Leather Bag Manufacturers in China
Top 10 Leather Bag Manufacturers in India
Top 10 Leather Bag Manufacturers in Italy
How to Choose the Right Manufacturer/Wholesaler for Leather Bags?
Here are some points to note when choosing leather bag wholesalers:
1) Manufacturer’s Reputation
A manufacturer’s industry reputation can tell you a lot about their reliability. First, look into the company’s past and how well it has done. People who have worked with them before should leave reviews and recommendations.
Keep an eye on how long they’ve been in business, as that’s a sign of steadiness and good quality. Don’t be afraid to ask their present clients for references.
2) Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
Knowing the MOQ is essential. Some wholesalers have high minimum orders. That makes it difficult for small firms or organizations to attempt new products.
Find wholesalers who are ready to negotiate or have flexible MOQs. Some may charge more per unit for small sales, which could be a good choice if you want to start small.
3) Pricing structure and discounts
Knowing how the wholesaler sets prices is vital to maintaining earning margins. Ask them to explain their prices, including any discounts for bulk purchases. Some suppliers offer tiered pricing, where ordering more lowers the unit price.
Determine if foreign purchases incur shipping or customs expenses. Also, you can find out how they want to be paid. Some may want to be paid in total upfront.
4) Customization options
Customization helps your business stand out. Find out if the supplier can make changes to your order. Some sellers may let you make more changes to the designs. So you can create your own or change the ones that are already available.
Customization often means a higher minimum order quantity and longer lead times. So, ensure these things don’t go against what your business needs and can handle.
5) Return and exchange policies
Things can go wrong even with proper quality control. Learn the wholesaler’s rules for faulty goods or damaged shipping. Find out how long you must report problems and what proof they need.
Some wholesalers may back up their goods with a guarantee. If you know these, you can avoid future problems and losses.
6) Eco-friendly certificate
Eco-friendly certifications can boost sales as environmental awareness grows. Ask manufacturers about their environmental practices and certifications. Some wholesalers might use vegetable-tanned leather.
They may also employ sustainable manufacturing practices. Having this information not only helps you decide what to do. It also gives you helpful marketing materials for eco-friendly people.
Step-by-Step Process to Buy Leather Bags Wholesale
At first, buying in bulk may seem hard to understand, but breaking it down into steps can help. As a wholesaler, these steps will help you through the whole process:
Step 1: Initial inquiry and communication
First, visit the Mherder’s official website. Begin by contacting the bag manufacturer with a transparent, professional inquiry. Introduce your business briefly and express your interest in their products.
Get a copy of their most recent catalog and price list. You should be clear about what kinds of leather bags you want and your unique needs. The first contact allows you to note how good their customer service is.
Step 2: Requesting samples and quotes on leather bags
After reviewing the catalog or browsing leather bag collection online and making a short list of options, it’s time to ask for samples and quotes. Samples are vital because they let you see how the bag is made.
You can also tell how good the leather is and how it looks compared to the pictures in the catalog. When you ask for prices, be clear about how many items you want and if you want any customizations.
Step 3: Negotiating terms (price, payment, delivery)
You can start negotiating once you have samples and quotes in hand. There may be room for better prices or terms if you plan to make a big order or buy from them often. Talk about your preferred payment options.
Ensure you know the delivery date and how much it will cost. For international orders, determine who pays the import taxes and customs fees.
Step 4: Placing an order
Send a clear, detailed buy order that lists the products you want. It should also include your desired number, price, and customization information. Check the expected delivery date and any special shipping instructions.
Keep in touch with the distributor after you’ve placed the order. Checking your order can help you ensure it’s on track. It also gives you a chance to fix any problems right away.
Bonus Tips – How to Promote and Sell Leather Bags?
There is more to selling leather bags successfully than just having good items. To help you market and sell your cheap leather bags, here are some ideas:
Step 1: Build an Online Presence for Your Store
Create a professional website for your leather bag collection. Use good visuals and thorough descriptions of your products. Create an easy-to-use e-commerce platform.
A good user interface lets people browse and buy your products easily. You should be on the right social media networks along with your website. Leather bags look good on Instagram and Pinterest.
Step 2: Develop a Brand Identity
A strong brand identity distinguishes you from others. So, define your brand and leather bag specialty. How well was it made? Eco-friendly sourcing? Use these tips to tell a compelling brand story.
Pick a logo, color palette, and fonts that reflect your brand’s personality to unify its design. Custom packing can make getting your leather bags feel special.
Step 3: Connect with the Right Manufacturer to Source Leather Bags
A good relationship with manufacturers ensures a steady supply of high-quality leather bags. Constant communication can help you learn new styles, tools, or production techniques.
If possible, go to the factory where the product is made. It can teach you a lot about the production processes. Hence, you can find unique selling points for your bags.
Step 4: Use Targeted Marketing Strategies
Figure out who your target market is and then sell to them correctly. Use customer data to create buyer personas for targeted advertising. Consider working with influencers. Fashion influencers can help get your bags in front of the right people.
Content marketing, like blog posts, can bring people to your site. Ads in relevant magazines or local fashion events can still work.
Step 5: Connect with Retailers and Boutiques
Wholesalers can profit by selling directly to retailers. Make a professional line sheet or posters to show off your collection. To get stores to carry your bags, you might want to offer them special deals or exclusives.
Building these relationships can help your brand reach more people. As a result, it will bring you a steady stream of orders.
FAQs:
1) How to Check Leather Quality?
A natural, slightly varied grain pattern should be present in good leather. Slide your hand over the surface. It should feel smooth and soft, not stiff or like plastic. Pay close attention to the edges of the leather.
Well-finished edges show that the leather was made with care and attention to detail. You can also tell by how the leather smells. Natural leather has a distinct, pleasant smell. However, faux or low-quality leather may smell like chemicals.
2) What Are the Common Leather Bag Defects?
One problem that comes up a lot is dye transfer. Such occurrences are usually a sign of lousy coloring methods. Over time, loose stitches and irregular lines can undermine the structure. Look for non-grain-related blemishes and scratches.
Also, pay attention to the lining. It should be well-connected and not have any tears or threads that are coming loose. Feel the bags to see if they smell strongly of chemicals. If they do, it indicates nasty tanning or finishing products. Lastly, make sure the design is symmetrical.
3) How to Care for and Maintain Leather Bags?
Leather bags last if properly maintained. To remove dust and grime, clean the bag often with a dry, soft cloth. Use a leather cleaner suited to deep clean the bag’s type.
Leather conditioner keeps leather soft and prevents breakage after cleaning. To avoid water damage, spray leather bags with water-resistant spray.
4) What Are the Best Practices for Storing Leather Bags?
Keep leather bags in a cool, dry place. Too much heat or moisture is not suitable for it. Also, too little humidity can make it crack. To keep dust and light out of the bags, use dust bags or cotton covers that let air flow.
Do not use plastic covers because they can trap water and cause mold to grow. Depending on how they are made, store bags upright or flat.
Final Thoughts!
Exploring the wholesale leather bag market gives you ample options for your store. Leather bags’ durability and changing preferences create a market ready for expansion. So, keep up with market trends and build strong connections with your supplier.
Remember that the trick to doing well in this business is to find a good balance between quality and price. Also, you must be ready to shift to new fashion trends to give your customers a great deal.
You can connect with Mherder for high-quality wholesale leather bags at competitive prices. As a direct manufacturer, we can offer better deals than many intermediaries.
