Short answer: Use an official distributor for the editions made for your own market and an importer or specialised wholesaler for Japanese, Korean and Chinese editions. Importing yourself is possible but moves supplier checks, transport and authenticity risk onto you. Ask every source the same questions before ordering.
Pages on this topic usually list names. Few explain what each kind of source can and cannot do for a store. Here is the comparison without ranking anyone.
What does each source mean for your store?
| Source | What it typically gives you | What to watch |
|---|---|---|
| Official distributor | Local-language product through the publisher's channel | Allocations can limit what you receive |
| Direct importer or wholesaler | Editions made for other markets | Verify identity, invoicing and authenticity |
| Importing it all yourself | Full control of the chain | You carry the checks, transport and customs work |
| Marketplaces and retail deals | Convenience | Weak accountability; hard to build a business on |
When is an official distributor the right choice?
For the editions your customers know best, in the language of your market. Terms depend on the distributor and your country, so ask directly.
When does an importer make sense?
When you want editions the local channel does not carry. Our guides explain the differences between Japanese, Korean and Chinese editions and what each means for a shelf.
Should you import it all yourself?
It can work if you have the time and the knowledge. Remember that you would handle the supplier relationship, authenticity checks, transport and the formalities for goods from outside the EU. Rules differ by country, so read your national customs authority's guidance before you decide; we do not summarise legal obligations here.
Which questions should you ask every supplier?
Where does the product come from, do I receive a proper invoice, how is each batch checked, how are claims handled and who answers me. We expand this in the distributor comparison and in the TCG Bestia distributor review. A reliable source also helps you avoid fake cards.
Where does TCG Bestia sit?
We are a B2B wholesaler serving independent stores across Europe, with Japanese, Korean and Chinese Pokémon, plus One Piece and Dragon Ball in Japanese. Access requires a business with a VAT number verified in VIES, and we issue intra-community invoices. See the wholesale page or get in touch.
