Once you find a broker...

[Bardo]

I live on the east coast, so my choices are somewhat limited. Some of the bigs have warehouses in NJ, and that seems like the closest I will get. How do I go about selecting a bean to purchased one bag at a time? There is little risk when I buy from Sweet Maria's at 5 lbs a shot. But how do I pick when purchasing from a large importer and intend to buy a 60 or more kilo bag?

Thanks

 

[LBBeans]

Try to get samples first. The brokers I work with will supply 1# samples. Talk to another roaster who is using the same broker to get their opinion.

 

[eldub]

Develop a relationship with a couple of broker's reps. Let them know that quality in the cup is your main concern. Get their advice.

 

[bprotsman]

Yea you should be able to get samples from most brokers. We usually get 1/2lb. Might want to check with a coop as well or team up with a roaster in your area.

 

[CoffeeLovers]

You can search some brokers in the internet; big time brokers that engage in "buy and sell" of any instant or green coffee lot. There are those who engage in trading - most of the origins and different commercial grades. You can try YouTradeCoffee Home - Green, Roasted & Soluble Coffee Trade.

 

[Sidram]

Referrals is the best way to go. It also keeps the broker honest if you compare notes with other roasters. I buy from broker my friend referred. Comparing notes he was paying more buying 6000# per month while I buy 600# per month. Lets just say the broker got a phone call to straighten that out. Lol. It is good to have friends to compare notes with.