Sheepskin remains a top choice for B2B buyers in industries like footwear, home textiles, and luxury accessories. But its price fluctuates sharply with seasons. This guide helps you map your sourcing to save costs while securing quality stock.
1. Fall (September–November): New Stock Arrives, Test Small Batches
Fall marks the start of fresh sheepskin supply. Most 牧羊场 (sheep farms) finish shearing in late summer, and processors release new batches by September.
Supply is stable now, but prices sit slightly above average—suppliers often hold initial rates to gauge demand. This season works best for B2B buyers who want to test new products or suppliers. Order small batches to check leather thickness, softness, and color consistency.
Pro tip: Use this time to build relationships with suppliers. Discuss bulk pricing terms for later seasons; many will offer early-bird discounts if you commit to larger orders by November.
2. Winter (December–February): High Demand, Prioritize Pre-Orders
Winter is peak demand season for sheepskin. Brands stock up for holiday gifts (like sheepskin rugs or gloves) and cold-weather products. This surge pushes prices up 15–20% compared to fall.
B2B buyers can’t afford to wait here. Pre-order 1–2 months in advance—by late October at the latest—to lock in lower rates. Focus on fast-moving items first; avoid overstocking slow-selling styles, as storage costs add up.
SEO note: This is the worst time for last-minute sourcing. Use keywords like “winter sheepskin pre-order tips for B2B” to find suppliers with available stock.
3. Spring (March–May): Demand Drops, Lock in Bulk Deals
As temperatures rise, demand for sheepskin falls. Suppliers start clearing winter inventory to make space for new lines, so prices drop 10–15% below winter levels.
This is the sweet spot for bulk purchases. B2B buyers can negotiate better per-unit costs—especially if you order 500+ units. Focus on timeless products (like basic sheepskin insoles) that won’t go out of style before your next restock.
Check for minor defects (like small scratches) too. Suppliers often discount “second-grade” sheepskin that’s still usable for non-luxury items, cutting costs even more.
4. Summer (June–August): Off-Season Bargains, Check Quality First
Summer is the cheapest time to source sheepskin. Demand hits its lowest point, and suppliers offer deep discounts (20–30% off peak prices) to reduce inventory.
But B2B buyers need to be careful. Some suppliers store sheepskin for months, leading to issues like mold or dryness. Inspect samples in person or ask for detailed photos.
You can also negotiate long-term contracts now. Suppliers are more flexible in summer and may agree to fixed prices for 6–12 months, protecting you from future price hikes.
Final Tips for B2B Sheepskin Sourcing
The best way to save money is to plan ahead. Use this calendar to align your orders with seasonal trends:
- Test small batches in fall
- Pre-order for winter demand
- Buy in bulk in spring
- Secure off-season deals in summer
Always communicate with suppliers early—they can share insights on upcoming stock or price changes. With this strategy, you’ll cut sourcing costs without compromising on quality.