Posts by Jesse Liu
Is Your 3rd-Party QC Up to Snuff? How to Avoid Quality Control Pitfalls in China
3rd-party quality control, or QC, is vital to maintaining standards in any industry, but especially so in the China sourcing industry. However, many buyers fail to realize that 3rd-party QC is only as strong as the people performing it and the processes they follow. Use these tips to make sure your 3rd-party QC agents are up to snuff and can help you avoid quality control pitfalls in China.
Define Your Product Requirements
Be clear on how you want your product to end up and be specific on all the metrics. It’s not just about quality of raw materials, but also what that means for finished products: Is it meant to last 5 years, or is it disposable after a few months?
It’s important to make sure you have a clear vision of what you want before approaching any factories. For example, are you looking for someone who can create a prototype quickly and cheaply so you can get feedback from potential customers, or do you need high volume production with a tight turnaround time?
Defining these requirements will help you find the right QC partner. You should also research their past work as well as industry reviews. There are plenty of 3rd-party QC companies out there; use them if needed to ensure quality control standards are met.
Understand Your 3rd-Party QC Companies
It is important to have a clear understanding of the quality control process and what type of 3rd-party QC company you are hiring. Use the following questions when interviewing your potential vendors:
1) What is your quality control process?
2) Who performs the inspections?
3) Where are these inspections performed at?
4) What type of inspection do you perform (i.e. 100% inspection)?
5) What experience do you have with this particular product line or industry segment?
It’s always better to get everything straightened out upfront, which is also another effective way to maintain a good relationship with your 3rd-party QC company. After all, they will be working with your products on a day-to-day basis so it’s important that they feel comfortable knowing exactly what their role entails and that they know how you want them to do their job and that you are comfortable with how they do it!
Make Your Communication Simple But On-Point
Although most of the QC inspectors in China can speak English fluently, it is still better to make your language plain and simple. After all, there are still some inevitable cultural barriers. Make sure you clearly communicate what you want and provide detailed instructions on how you want them to do it.
Be clear about what mistakes or problems you want them to look for or find out. A specific set of specifications may be necessary if it’s your first time working with this factory.
Maintain communication with them. Email is not as common of a messaging tool in China as in the west. WeChat is the most widely-used IM app there.
Develop Your QC System
There are three major factors that should be considered into the process of developing your own QC system, which will benefit you in the long run of your business.
1. Know what you’re looking for
Make sure that the standards you’re looking for are spelled out and that your vendor is on board with them, too. This will help prevent any miscommunication down the line.
2. Create a checklist for your quality control process
Make sure you’re including every step of the process so there are no surprises when it’s time to pass inspection.
3. Choose an inspector that knows your need
Someone who can provide the kind of feedback that you need on your product, such as if it should be rejected or not, or if it needs more work before it’s ready to move on to the next step in production or shipping.
Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to keep your quality control on track. Don’t be discouraged by problems if they arise! They can be obstacles for any growing business, and most of all, don’t forget about checking a second opinion. It can help you take necessary precautions and avoid future errors altogether.
Evaluate the Results
Your QC process is not over yet although after mass production. You should always evaluate the results of your quality control process by sampling your goods. You can do this by taking a sample of every 100th unit or randomly selecting every 100th unit, counting the number of errors, and using these figures to calculate a rate of defects per hundred (called defects per hundred).
The defects per hundred tells you how many defects there are in 100 pieces of a certain product. If your defect rate is high, it means that you need more time for corrective measures and new quality control procedures before starting the next round of production.
When evaluating your results, don’t stop at a defect per hundred rate. Look for patterns and reasons for each defect you find.
The next step is to evaluate your quality control process as a whole. If you notice one specific defect occurring frequently, then there is something going wrong in production that needs addressing immediately.
Conversely, if you notice different types of defects occurring often, it could be because there is something wrong with your entire quality control process.
Shield Works is highly experienced in 3rd-party QC with 17 years under the belt. Talk to us today, and know more about how our team can safeguard the production of your product!
7 Tips for Successfully Outsourcing Your Assembly Line to China
The next time you need to manufacture and sell your product, you might consider outsourcing the assembly work to China. While this solution will certainly save you time and money, it’s not without its challenges, so take some time to prepare yourself before going all-in on outsourcing your manufacturing and assembly line to China. Here are seven tips for outsourcing your assembly line successfully to China.
1) Know your facts
When outsourcing anything, it is important to cover all your bases beforehand. Product assembly, however, is unlike most business processes because. all revisions have to happen ahead of time, and things are more complex when outsourced to international firms in Asia.
To illustrate, for example, if a supplier misreads your email and ships 100 units instead of 10, it could cost you thousands of dollars and waste even more time. It is critical that you confirm every detail- from the length and width of each piece to the location of holes or slots -before you start your project.
In the event that any directions are confusing or feel like they’re missing information, please get in touch with your supplier.
2) Find a company that suffices
You need to consider where your products will be shipped from. If a made in China label is part of your business plan, you should know what your options are for assembly and shipping.
Is it important for you to discuss your upcoming lead time, incoterms, and final delivery details with multiple suppliers? Making a product in China is flexible. Your candidates can go to great lengths to win your business. You may have better options depending on the factors that matter most to you, such as price or quality.
And if one company fails to live up to their promises, there’s always another willing contender who might give you a better deal. In many cases, international trade is all about bargaining and negotiation.
A good way to start the process of finding a reliable overseas manufacturer is by looking at current job listings for manufacturing positions in Asia. Or search for manufacturers who already make your type of goods.
3) How you communicate
The most crucial step in product assembly outsourcing is effective communication with your supplier. Make a choice of communication style and stick to it be sure to find your favorite form of communication, and stick to it.
For example, if you prefer email, then make sure that your emails are punctual and detail oriented. In a phone call, talk less than the other party as often as possible, while in video conferences, start talking more often.
The WeChat application is well used in China. It might be the perfect solution for people who want quick replies. Regardless of what level of formality you think you should have with another person–stay with one style that is appropriate for the two of you.
4) Have a presence on-site for quality
In the case of new or complex products, you should definitely have someone on-site checking quality control. In the case of well-established and simple products, some entrepreneurs may trust their suppliers much more and forgo regular quality control visits.
It will be nearly impossible to travel to China physically with current restrictions. Keeping in touch with your supplier can help prevent mistakes before they occur. Video-record yourself demonstrating how your product works so that you can send it over if questions arise during production (for tips on how to do these types of videos). With WeChat, you can use it anywhere in the world.
5) Price and quality can co-exist, with the right manufacturer
People often choose what they believe to be a lower-cost option due to time constraints. Poor quality or poor communication will often cause production delays and parts to get lost, resulting in much higher costs.
By finding reliable manufacturers who adhere to agreed-upon pricing structures, you’ll ensure that price won’t be a deal breaker.
If you find a manufacturer who does not compromise quality for low costs, your project will stay on schedule and under budget from launch to completion. Establishing clear ground rules with your manufacturers from the beginning can prevent problems that result in overruns later on.
6) Have A Timeline
Try setting a deadline for when you would like your product assembled and shipped. Since outsourcing overseas is difficult, as it may take long without knowing how long things will take, it may be stressful to be juggling different deadlines.
Setting a deadline will enable you to schedule and manage your time better, because many companies that work with foreign manufacturers are also able to help you with logistics and delivery, so you’ll be able to deliver your product on time.
7) Quality Control System All The Way
When you’re outsourcing product assembly to China, it’s important that every step of manufacturing undergoes quality control. Inspecting your products at each step guarantees that an oversight or mistake during one stage of production doesn’t cascade and lead to a shipment of defective products—which can result in expensive returns, dissatisfied customers, and even lawsuits.
It can help identify the root of problems, thus what additional quality control measures are needed to keep them from arising. Quality control is crucial for outsourced manufacturing since a short-sighted approach may miss an important step. For instance, some manufacturers may put too much glue on an item or use the wrong type of glue for it, both of which would render it unusable or break it very easily.
A manufacturer with great experience can help you go a long way, like Shield Works. We have 17 years of experience with industry-spanning expertise. If you have any questions regarding our contract assembly service, please do not hesitate to contact Shield Works.
OEM Manufacturing in China – Everything You Need to Know
OEM Manufacturing – it’s the reason why some of your favorite products are made in China, and the reason why you might be able to find a more affordable version of that product at your local store. What exactly does OEM mean? Simply put, OEM stands for original equipment manufacturing and it’s often used in reference to products like electronics, automobiles, and various types of machinery – basically anything that would need to be customized or configured according to customer needs before being sold.
What is OEM Manufacturing and its current state in China
OEM manufacturing is a type of manufacturing activity where a company manufactures and sells products or parts of a product for another company, putting the products under the company’s own branding. The manufacturer will manufacture the product according to specifications and then ship it to the buyer. Generally, the buyer will only provide money, expertise and trade secrets. The manufacturer will handle everything from production and shipping logistics to distribution.
It has become a very common type of manufacturing in China now. It accounts for more than 50% of all industrial output in China just last year.
There are mainly three types of OEM manufacturers: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who produce goods based on other companies’ specifications; System integrators who design and assemble the systems but don’t fabricate any components themselves; and Contract manufacturers who buy components made by other firms that have been designed by system integrators.
For western businesses, an OEM manufacturer is a very popular option. It can provide products of good quality at a lower price than they could do it themselves. It offers them a chance to outsource complicated production tasks and focus on what they do best.
The Pros and Cons of OEM Manufacturing in China
The pros of OEM manufacturing in China are that it is less expensive than the United States, Europe, Japan and South Korea. Workers there are skilled because they are more educated with most having graduated with high school diploma, but they are paid less than their western counterparts.
Production times tend to be faster because there is a larger supply chain of suppliers and factories. Most companies send their product engineers over early on so they can set up production lines and make sure everything is operating smoothly before products start arriving from overseas, which can mean better quality control too. If you’re looking for lower costs and want something fast, then this could be the way to go.
However, you should also know about some disadvantages. For example, the deteriorating relationship between the US and China has made their bilateral trade more difficult than ever. Punitive tariffs between the two nations have made it more expensive for an American company to produce its goods there. In response, many Chinese manufacturers have started up factories in Southeast Asia as a major workaround.
How to Find a Reputable OEM Manufacturer in China
In order to find a reliable manufacturer, you will want to do as much research as possible. There are many manufacturers in China, so it is important that you know what to look for when choosing one. Here are some things you should consider:
– Is the factory certified? A factory with ISO certification is usually a good place to start.
– How long has the company been around? The longer a company has been around, the better chance they are dependable and trustworthy.
– What products do they specialize in manufacturing? Some factories specialize in just a few products while others can manufacture anything. Ask yourself if your product would be made by someone who specializes in it or not. It can be helpful to visit their website and read about their capabilities before making your decision on who to use.
– Check their website or other social media presence. Does it look professional? Does it appear active? These questions can help you determine how reputable the company is.
– Are there reviews online for them? Read them carefully and make sure that they’re from legitimate sources. Any reviews from sites like Alibaba are probably fake because these websites get paid by sellers to post reviews on their behalf. Reviews from real buyers often provide very useful information about a supplier’s reliability, such as whether or not they deliver quality products quickly, answer emails promptly, return phone calls, etcetera.
– Do they have an English-speaking customer service staff? If not, you might need to find someone who does as quite likely they don’t much experience in dealing with western customers. Nowadays most manufacturers certified to export have English-speaking staff members in this regard.
Avoiding Scams When Manufacturing in China
There are many scams out there that try and lure companies into thinking they’re getting a great deal on OEM manufacturing in China. If you’re going to do business with someone in the country, make sure you’ve done your research about their company history, including what kind of certifications they have for their products.
You should also be on the lookout for any red flags when it comes to how much the company wants for their services or if they are insisting that you pay upfront before anything is agreed upon. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. It’s best to do as much due diligence as possible before agreeing to work with a new supplier. Even after you find one, stay vigilant by checking up on them often so that you don’t end up being scammed.
The last thing you want is problems with quality or time management along with possible legal issues. That’s why you should keep in touch with them on a regular basis so there aren’t any surprises for either party involved. It’s always important for manufacturers and clients to work together closely so they can best understand one another and work together to meet each other’s needs.
Shield Works is an ISO-certified and British-owned and managed OEM manufacturer that check all the boxes aforementioned with 17 years of experience in China. Contact us to see how we can help!
5 Tips to Make Quality Control More Affordable for Your Business
Quality control can be an expensive aspect of running your own business, but it doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. In fact, following these five tips will help you make quality control more affordable so that you don’t break the bank while keeping your customers satisfied with their experience using your product or service.
1) Use 3rd-party QC Services
It is typical for 3rd-party QC services to charge fees for their services, but their work can also streamline communication between you and your factory. As a result, you’ll still need to conduct regular inspections yourselves throughout each month while your 3rd-party inspector is at your production facility.
You can prevent problems from going undetected until after goods have been shipped to customers by using 3rd-party inspectors regularly during production cycles. Quality control in China can save you thousands of dollars if you make a little extra effort now.
2) Creating Good Relationships with Suppliers
No one’s going to succeed at a China manufacturing operation without strong supplier relationships. It’s as simple as that. When suppliers have on-time, high quality product, meet customers’ requirements, and have some flexibility when needed, you can have confidence in presenting your products in front of customers.
But if a supplier flubs orders, doesn’t pay attention to detail, or other poor quality factors, it will eventually affect your brand. It’s not good. Though the issue of how to obtain the perfect supplier doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer, there are ways to lower the risk and make sure it is within your budget.
Solidify a strong relationship with your supplier to ensure things will run smoothly and that your money is better spent on quality control and less on disaster clean-ups.
3) Be Clear On Your Metrics
One important purpose of having an amicable relationship with your supplier is to ensure smooth communication with your supplier, so you can be precise about your standard of quality. You need a clear understanding of the metrics that are relevant in this process. They are not all universal but there are some standards that are considered common denominators like color, shape, and size consistency.
These qualities need to be consistent across each batch or box coming from the manufacturer because these qualities vary between different batches and boxes based on the manufacturer’s processes and equipment used. And this affects product cost and customer satisfaction; if there is variation in one area then it will lead to other areas being out of whack too!
4) Get Critical Feedback While Your Product Is Being Manufactured
A big mistake many entrepreneurs make when manufacturing a product is assuming that everyone is as invested in its success as they are, when they’re likely to be working with other people to assemble different components. Without meeting directly with vendors or having them to directly collaborate with your team, it can be hard to spot errors, such as low-quality materials or things that don’t match up correctly.
The easiest way to catch these and other errors is by asking vendors for critical feedback from suppliers or manufacturers as soon as possible during production. It’s not possible to be perfect all the time, but communication can minimize problems during the production phase, which saves time and money in the long run. So if you want to get quality control more affordable for your business, it’s essential that you plan ahead of time how to handle mistakes and issues so you can work out any kinks before production starts.
5) Be Involved in Every Step of The Way
Your involvement in the production process not only brings oversight but also enhances your understanding of your product. If you are hands-on, it will be easier to pinpoint where improvements need to be made and find the source of a problem.
You may not be able to come on site but having someone represent you there is a great way to maintain presence. A 3rd-party QC service is a great option in this case.
Invest in a good QC service and treat it like you would your own. You want someone that is not only thorough but also honest. You should expect to spend money on QC, so don’t be cheap when hiring a service provider. Remember, you are looking for a partner, not just an inspector.
Quality control is one of those things that might seem insignificant compared with overall costs and time, but it can make a significant contribution to your bottom line in more than one way. QC services in China are available at Shield Works with our own professional team members with over 17 years of experience! Don’t hesitate to contact us!
5 Questions to Ask Before Working with a Contract Manufacturer in China
As an entrepreneur, when you start working with a contract manufacturer in China, it can be tempting to simply not ask any questions and just trust that your Chinese partner will do everything necessary to manufacture your product correctly, on time and within budget. However, doing so can end up costing you precious time and money if you run into any issues with the product later on down the road or don’t receive what you expected from the manufacturer. That’s why it’s important to ask these 5 key questions every time you work with a new contract manufacturer in China.
1) What materials are available?
Some of the materials that are available for contract manufacturing include metal, plastic, and rubber. These can vary depending on what industry the manufacturer is focused on.
For example, if the manufacturer is focused on metal, they will be able to provide manufacturing services for metals like steel and aluminum. If they have a wider focus on plastics or rubber, then they may be able to manufacture more items that contain these materials.
This is important because it will give you an idea of what your options are for this particular company and how wide their capabilities really are. Knowing which types of materials they work with will also help you decide which type of contract manufacturer might be best suited for your needs.
If you’re looking for someone who can handle all types of products, then you’ll want to find someone who works with as many different materials as possible. However, if you need someone who specializes in one particular material only (for example, metal), then finding a company that focuses only on metal products might be better.
2) What techniques do they use?
Contract manufacturers use many different techniques. Some of these include injection molding, extrusion, and machining. They may also specialize in one or two of these manufacturing processes.
For example, if you’re interested in making a product with key metal components, it would be best to work with someone who specializes exclusively in metal injection molding. By doing so, you can ensure the highest quality products and efficient turnaround times.
In addition, you may want to ask what they can do regarding special coatings and logos. If you have something that requires extreme heat resistance or chemical resistance, it would be best to work with someone who has experience dealing with these types of coatings.
3) Do they have minimum order quantity
One of the first questions you should ask is what their minimum order quantity is. If they don’t have any, then you should probably keep looking and find one that does. This is a red flag for indecent quality.
If they do have a minimum order quantity, then you should find out exactly what that is. If you’re on a budget, this is important because it will give you some flexibility and cost control when it comes to production runs. You’ll be able to experiment with different designs and sizes of products without committing too much money or ending up wasting an excessive amount of product inventory.
It’s also possible that there are other benefits to having a higher order quantity, such as being eligible for wholesale prices or receiving discounts.
4) How Long Have They Been in Business?
One of the first questions you should ask is how long have they been in business. Ideally, you want a company that’s been around for at least five years and has experience with your industry. If not, it’s worth asking about their team’s experience and what they’ve accomplished over the course of those years.
For instance, a contract manufacturer might have experience working with other brands or companies within your niche. Once you find out how long they’ve been in business and what they’re capable of doing, it’ll be easier to decide if they’re the right partner for you.
It is not only about how long they’ve existed, but also their history of working with an international customer. If they are able to provide references, then it will make your decision much easier. Their past clients can either confirm or deny whether they will provide excellent service as well as quality products. The relationship between the customers and manufacturers are quite important so this question is worth asking when you meet them in person.
In addition, if possible try to talk to the owners directly and find out more about their background. In order for them to grow successfully and continuously learn new skills, these factors are crucial especially when thinking about potential expansion. Asking these types of questions before hiring a contract manufacturer will help both parties understand what type of expectations each side has from one another from the start!
5) Do they offer in-house design?
If you’re looking for design services, it’s important to find out whether the contract manufacturer can provide them. If they do, there are follow-up questions you might need answers to.
Does the manufacturer have an R&D department? If so, how many people work there? What are their credentials and what are they working on now?
If they don’t have an R&D department or if they only employ a small team, it might be difficult for them to get work done quickly or meet your expectations. In that case, you may want to consider hiring another company for design as well as manufacturing.
Good candidates for China contract manufacturing don’t come by easily. Shield Works is one of them with over 17 years of experience, spread out over the vast array of the industry in the region. Our background is the UK, and our expertise is in China. This combination means we’re knowledgeable in affordable China-made products. We would be happy to help your company be successful, if you’re interested! Contact us today!
5 Things about Outsourced Product Assembly You Can’t Afford To Miss
If you’re looking for ways to save time and money, outsourcing your product assembly could be one way to do that without compromising your overall quality. Here are some things you can’t afford to miss if you’re considering this option. These tips apply whether you’re looking at outsourcing on a small or large scale; the only difference will be in the amount of detail each section of your post needs. With that in mind, here are the five things you can’t afford to miss if you’re planning to outsource product assembly.
First off, What Is Outsourced Product Assembly?
What is outsourced product assembly? How does it differ from in-house assembly?
When a business outsources assembly, it hires a third-party company to make the items it uses or sells in part or in full, depending on the relationship established between the two parties.
Whenever you consider outsourcing your product construction, think about the items that you would like to have made, then find businesses that can build them, and then talk to them about forming a relationship.
It’s important to know exactly what you want a third party to do for you before you begin outsourcing.
It Lowers Your Costs
Doesn’t it make more sense for companies to produce everything themselves rather than outsource it?
The cost of running a business increases when a company creates its own products. It can especially hurt small companies, since they may lack the funds to hire many workers.
Your production costs can be reduced by partnering with another company. When you do this, the other company will provide and employ the workers for you. Thus, you do not need to pay salaries or hire new employees.
Other companies are usually based overseas, such as in China. China’s manufacturing costs are cheaper than in other developed nations, so you will not have to spend as much on your final product. As a result, you are able to cultivate productive and positive business relationships with professionals abroad!
You Can’t Just Work with Any Product Assembly Company
Just as with any business partnership, you want to make sure you find the right manufacturing company for your specific requirements.
Make a list of all the materials and items your product requires. Does the company have them?
Also, ask them if they have worked with any companies similar to yours in the past.
Furthermore, you should pay attention to how friendly and professional the company’s workers are. In order to be productive for as long as possible, you should look for a company with great client service.
If their customer service is not up to par, then it will be difficult for them to get things done efficiently.
In addition, you need to know what type of warranty is offered by the manufacturer so that when problems arise, it can quickly be resolved without too much stress on your end.
Furthermore, price is also important when choosing a product assembly company.
Timeline Is Important
When you first talk to a company, ask them how long it takes them to produce and ship items. This will affect how quickly you can deliver materials to your clients. Therefore, you should find a company that makes high-quality items quickly.
You should discuss what happens when unforeseen circumstances occur. Natural disasters, for example, might cause the company’s ability to deliver your product to you to be interrupted. In times of emergency, you should know what measures the company takes to keep its production running smoothly.
If an urgent situation arises, ask who you should contact. This will give you a person to go to, instead of wasting time looking up who to contact.
The last thing you want is to miss deadlines because of miscommunication. Lastly, make sure that both parties have contingency plans in place in case any problems arise.
Make Sure They Have Everything It Needs to Protect Your IP
Copyright is different depending on which country you are in, so a company should do what it can to ensure that its intellectual property is safeguarded.
That’s why you should research the intellectual property laws of the country in which your products will be made. If they do not protect the rights of other companies, consider making your products elsewhere.
As a bonus, you might also be able to use this to assess the company’s technological competency in keeping your data safe. Do they use leading-edge, state-of-the-art software? Is it comparable to the security you take at your place of business? Do they make regular security checks and upgrades?
A leak of your intellectual property can result in serious, business-damaging losses such as intellectual property piracy and lost data. If you’re trying to keep your company safe, think about the level of security that others have.
When you find a potential supplier that meets these standards, take things a step further. Ask them how they will keep your data and IP safe. Do they have a physical security system? Will they test regularly to make sure everything is working as it should be? If so, then you can work with them more confidently.
Also, you can take precautions on your end. Always have NDAs prepared for your supplier to sign before giving out any sensitive information; register trademarks and patents to prevent copycats and protect your brand; if you source parts or components from multiple suppliers, assemble them at one secure location;
Ready to Outsource Your Product Manufacturing?
In light of this, have you given thought to outsource assembly process?
Outsourcing production may help a company get their goods faster and more cheaply than trying to produce everything on-site. Further, they are freed to focus on innovation and growth of their company.
Here at Shield Works, we manufacture goods. Located in China and British-owned and managed, our goal is to provide clients with high-quality items at affordable prices. If you would like to know more about what we can offer, please get in contact with us!
Is Product Development in China Up to Snuff?
Product development in China has earned itself a reputation as one of the most innovative nations in the world. But just how good are the products that come out of China? Are they up to snuff? Some business owners find themselves questioning the value of outsourcing their product development needs to China, so let’s take a look at how the country stacks up against others when it comes to producing products that meet global standards.
It is still a good idea to outsource product development to China
The idea of outsourcing product development to China may seem strange to many. Most engineers and product developers assume that manufacturing abroad only applies to sourcing parts from other countries, but there are many advantages to having your invention made in China. Chinese companies, for example, often provide ready-made factories, so you don’t have to worry about setting up the factory space before production begins. The biggest benefit of outsourcing product development is the cost savings. there are generally cheaper manufacturing costs in Asian countries than in Western ones, which allows startups to take risks they otherwise wouldn’t be able to.
With years of development, China is able to produce quality products that meet international standards. Engineers and product developers think outsourcing manufacturing to China is a risky decision, since they are concerned about the quality of the products. American brands are realizing, however, how reliable Chinese companies can be as more use them for their projects.
Get off to a good start
Working with a partner who has impeccable standards and experience is the best way to avoid quality issues in the future. In spite of the numerous problems that can arise when making products abroad, you’ll want someone on your team who can spot these problems before they snowball. Working with an experienced partner will help you avoid major setbacks, whether it’s minor translation errors or hardware problems. Know what aspects of your product or business could cause problems. When unsure of anything regarding your production process, consult an expert or do some research.
For example, if you’re using a new material or technology for your product, it’s critical to know how that material will interact with other components. Whether you’re making a hard drive, an electronic device, or anything else that contains moving parts and circuits, you need someone who knows how these things work together. This can help you avoid quality issues that may arise later during production when pieces are put together in different locations around the world.
How long it takes
From preparing a prototype and testing it, to finding materials and ordering samples, bringing an idea to life can take up to six months on average. Consequently, product development timelines are dependent on various factors such as the creation of a custom mold instead of a mass-produced mold or production in China. This could result in significant changes in the timeline, depending on your design and goal. What will the timeline be for receiving your samples? It will vary based on what type of shipping you select. Ordering standard delivery is good for packages to reach you in two weeks or less; order express shipping and you’ll receive your package in one week.
But with COVID and geopolitics, everything still remains more or less unclear. It’s important to have an adaptable mindset.
How much you should invest prototyping
Getting prototypes made is often a great way to see how your product will look (and feel) and how durable it will be. It’s also worth taking into account the fact that prototypes have varying prices. If you are looking for low-cost prototyping solutions such as 3D printing, get quotes from multiple suppliers. Injection-molded parts can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. Many manufacturers don’t charge their first-time clients much for printouts if cooperative desire is demonstrated.
It’s also important to consider how many products you will make. If you’re only going for one prototype, that might not be a bad place to start. But if you are trying to test multiple variables or aspects of your product idea, investing in several iterations could make sense. (For example, if you want both male and female feedback on a product before going into production.)
How to make sure you don’t get ripped off
Although you may be hesitant to send money to a company you don’t know, most clients choose to have an agreement in writing before making any payments. The agreement should include timelines for delivery, agreements for delayed shipping and detailed specifications. If you’re worried about your contract being followed to the letter, hire a lawyer who works in this area, or find a partner that has experience making goods in China. That way you can rest assured that there will be no mix-ups, you’ll get exactly what you wanted, and there’ll be less chances for headaches.
If you don’t have time to vet a partner thoroughly before entrusting your project to them, you could run into some problems, but investing your time up front into researching reputable ones will solve the majority of potential issues. From the UK and with a 17-year history in product development, Shield Works definitely understands your language. Give us a call and find out more!
3rd-party Quality Control Service in China: Your Key to Protecting Your Product
A lot of people are considering sourcing their products from China, and this isn’t without good reason. However, one concern that many people have with sourcing from China is whether the product they purchase will be safe to use once they get it in their hands. Thankfully, there are ways to ensure that your product arrives safely, including the use of 3rd-party inspection services in China. This article will discuss this important part of any China sourcing process in greater detail and provide you with tips on how to choose an ideal 3rd-party inspector for your project.
Why it’s important
It is of the utmost importance to control quality in manufacturing. It’s common knowledge that quality control is crucial for any product, but many people overlook how important 3rd-party quality control services in China can be in ensuring product safety. Get quality control services from a qualified 3rd-party like C2W. With quality control services, you will never worry about getting faulty products again. Invest in trusted 3rd-party quality control services today if you want quality products every time!
Reason to choose a 3rd-party quality control service
You can ensure your product arrives at its destination without any defects or flaws by using a 3rd-party QC company, and you will also show potential customers that you care about quality and safety. Whether or not you hire a 3rd-party quality control company comes down to the fact that a 3rd-party inspection does not change your product safety standards. Prior to shipping your product out of China, you will have an expert ensure that all of your requirements are met. There is a greater chance of making a mistake along its route toward distribution, resulting in money and time loss on your part.
How to pick the right one?
When you find a company with experienced 3rd-party quality inspectors, be sure to take a good look at their certifications. 3rd-party certification and ISO 9001 compliance should come up. Professionals who are trained for audits, inspections, and analyses: a certified professional is worth it and all that counts is how much experience the professional has. Once you’re in the process of selecting inspection services, be sure to inquire about the companies’ methods. You will want to know what systems of internal quality control the company follows and whether inspectors will use a random sample or a statistical model.
You’ll want to ask about turnaround times. Inspections are not cheap, but then neither is a recall or a lawsuit from faulty products. There’s no point in rushing your inspection or ordering one that doesn’t offer enough quality assurance for your standards. Do it right from day one. And don’t forget – if you’re still worried about a product after it gets its certificate of quality, don’t be afraid to ask for another inspection. This will show your commitment to quality and protect both you and your customers down the line.
What do they look for?
Inspectors may study an array of features of a product and its packaging including how it was constructed, what materials were used, how it was packaged and labeled, whether it complied with safety standards, and so on. If a product was intended for children or if it was inherently unsafe, inspectors would look for warnings labels or other ways to inform consumers of potential hazards. Items such as stuffed animals are also subject to inspection to make sure they’re safe for children to play with. Inspectors check that children won’t choke on them or hurt themselves. Lots of people have one electric device tested by checking to see if sparks fly and also to see if there’s anything exposed that could give you an electric shock.
What can you expect from them?
In China, there are many 3rd-party QC companies offering QC services. How do you know which ones are good? In addition to being qualified, a 3rd-party quality control company should possess a wide range of certifications related to quality control. Ask for references if you are unsure. Do not just rely on their word. Furthermore, it is important for your supplier to work with them as well, so that there are no errors caused by miscommunication along the way.
Inspectors from 3rd-party QC companies should be able to speak and read English. As mentioned before, it is important for your supplier, as well as your customer, to understand exactly what was inspected and what problems were found. If there are any disputes over defects found on a product during an inspection, you will want a translation that is easy for everyone involved to read and understand.
You should also make sure that they have inspectors with years of experience working on products similar to yours. It is all too easy for an inexperienced inspector who doesn’t know much about your product or industry to miss some kind of defect – even one that could easily impact how well your product works once it gets used by customers.
Major Takeaway
In China, your manufacturer may tell you that hiring a QC service is unnecessary because their products come with quality warranties, but when things go wrong, that warranty means nothing. A 3rd-quality control service will protect you against defective manufacturing and ensure safe delivery of your goods. There aren’t all 3rd-party inspectors created equal, so consider how often they’ve worked on your product and choose one who you trust.
Contact us today to learn more about quality control services for Chinese goods, or to speak with one of our experts in the quality control industry!
Supply Chain Management: The Backbone of Your Business
Supply chain management is the backbone of any company, big or small, that deals in physical goods with substantial production and distribution processes. When you’re starting out your business, supply chain management might seem like an afterthought; you’re more concerned with what goes on inside your company than the goods that come in and out of it. But when you’re ready to scale up, you’ll need a way to manage your goods from their point of origin all the way to where they’re being used—and that’s where supply chain management comes into play.
What Is A Supply Chain?
A supply chain is the network of all suppliers and producers, distributors, warehouses, and end customers involved in producing and delivering a product. Supply chains are found in a variety of industries including automobile manufacturing.
A consumer goods business’s supply chain can be broken down into four main categories: supplier development and management; distribution; operations management; and customer service. These four components work together to ensure that goods are delivered to customers on time while maintaining a high level quality.
Suppliers need to be monitored for quantity, delivery times, and any changes in price or availability. Distribution requires coordination with carriers and transportation services for getting products from point A to point B without any delays or damage. Operations must handle such things as plant floor layout, storage equipment design, assembly line design, production scheduling strategies and inventory levels. Customer service involves managing customer expectations with respect to pricing/costs, lead times and order fulfilment.
An effective supply chain is crucial because it ensures your company has continuous supplies which allows you to stay competitive by meeting your customers’ needs at a low cost while still ensuring profit margins remain healthy enough for long-term success.
Benefits Of Having A Good Supply Chain In Place
A good supply chain will ensure the availability of your products and services to buyers. Having a reliable supply chain in place means you can trust that what is promised is delivered, without worries about product shortages or delivery delays. It also means you can focus on other aspects of your business, such as marketing and customer service, knowing that your supply chain is running smoothly. Good inventory management also saves you money by reducing the amount of time spent managing inventories; it eliminates waste by reducing excess production; and it prevents overbuying or underbuying by estimating demand more accurately.
It also allows you to offer same-day shipping or delivery services, which can greatly improve your customer experience while enhancing your brand image in shoppers’ eyes. Finally, having control of every step of the process from production to distribution gives you peace of mind because you know where your products are at all times.
Problems With A Poorly Planned And Managed Supply Chain
A poorly planned and managed supply chain can lead to a variety of problems. For example, if your supplies are delivered late or in the wrong quantities, it will be difficult for you to keep up with demand and meet customer expectations. This could cause your customers to look elsewhere for products, meaning you’ll lose money. Similarly, if something goes wrong with a shipment – say you ordered 2,000 units but only received 1,500 – then you won’t have enough product on hand to fulfill orders and may have to cancel some orders altogether. This can damage your reputation as well as cause delays in production that hurt your bottom line.
In addition, a poorly planned and managed supply chain can lead to even financial problems. If your supplier ships you faulty products – say they accidentally send you 2,000 units that don’t work properly – then it may be difficult for you to get a refund or replacements. This could force you to halt production as your staff tries to identify and replace all of these faulty units and seek compensation for losses. Worse still, if there’s an issue with your suppliers’ products that leads to serious injuries or health complications for customers, then it may be difficult for you to find a lawyer who will take up your case due to consumer protections laws in many countries. And it’ll be detrimental to your cash flow.
How Can You Effectively Manage An Effective Supply Chain?
There are many factors to consider when it comes to supply chain management, but the most important is having a plan. You should start by writing down all the points that are essential to your business and then create a list of what you need for each point. You can also make use of a system that will help you manage your inventory and keep track of where things are in the process. When it comes to order fulfillment, be sure that you have enough space in your warehouse or storage area to account for the time it will take for customers’ orders to arrive. If you’re not sure how much space you’ll need, speak with a professional who deals with these matters on a daily basis.
Or you can hire a professional supply chain management company. They will work closely with you to establish goals for your organization’s future manufacturing plans as well as strategies that address potential problems like an increase in problems or changes in technology. They also provide recommendations and support for establishing a sustainable supply chain strategy. With their guidance, there’s no doubt about it: You’ll be able to continue running an effective supply chain without wasting money, resources, or time.
Shield Works Can Take Care of It All
Shield Works has over 17 years of experience in managing supply chain, all the way from manufacturing to delivery. We can help you achieve your goals and objectives while saving time and money. For a free consultation on how we can help your business, call today!
Why China is the Top Country for Product Prototyping
Although there are prototyping services in numerous countries around the world, China provides one-of-a-kind advantages to entrepreneurs and manufacturers alike. Let’s take a look at why China is the best place to prototype products before they launch globally.
Labor cost is lower
While labor costs in China are still cheaper than those of other high-tech economies like Japan and South Korea, they use more advanced machinery and better manufacturing processes to make products cheaper, faster, and higher in quality. Allowing these firms to set lower prices, such efficiency come from better use of technology (like robots) and closer monitoring of labor schedules to minimize downtime (i.e. breaks taken by workers). These different factors increased efficiency and lower wages, which mean that Chinese manufacturers are capable of supplying a higher quantity of products at a lower cost than anywhere else in the world.
They take care of it all
Some Chinese prototyping shops provide all the help you need to build a prototype. On-staff designers, 3D printers, and injection molders will give your ideas form and shape. if you purchase a package deal, they’ll do all of your work for you. Startup founders love this because it lets them focus on what they do best. Even better: specialized prototyping companies are popping up in increasing numbers, with faster-than-normal manufacturing processes, which work well for small startups aiming to get specific things accomplished.
For example, if you’re building a medical device, you might want to partner with a firm that specializes in the design and manufacture of medical devices. These firms know the details that the regulatory agencies such as FDA need to make sure that you’re following their protocols and as such you don’t need to concern yourselves with that information. Entrepreneurs who are launching hardware-based products should work closely with these experts from the earliest phases of the project.
Fast delivery
Inexpensive prototyping and large-scale manufacturing allow product developers to innovate at an unprecedented pace. Chinese factories offer lower costs, shorter lead times, and larger production volumes than other countries. Companies like Apple have established relationships with Chinese manufacturers for over a decade. Today, a large percentage of Apple’s products are manufactured in China—including final assembly for some parts (e.g., cables and batteries). While there are many factors that come into play when deciding where to locate production, high speed of prototype delivery has become increasingly important as consumers demand better turnaround times on pre-orders.
Preloaded technology
Since they make 3D printers with helpful software to make them easier to use, Chinese manufacturers also preload their 3D engineers with more industry experience, because they typically hire skilled workers who are experienced with manufacturing similar products or work with experienced consultants. Due to its large population, the talent pool in China is nothing comparable to those in other countries. It’s been difficult to close this sizable gap.
Innovative culture
While in the past China’s reputation has been that of a country that has stolen technologies and has relied on a copier culture, it’s now on the verge of becoming a leading economic power. Beijing’s top leaders are beginning to think that innovation, not imitation, can be the solution to some of the country’s problems and that it can create new industries and jobs, as well. They believe that innovation will lead to economic growth and more opportunities. nearly 700 universities in China have revamped their names to incorporate innovation, signifying an emphasis on teaching for research and development. Only a few years ago, these schools focused solely on providing the lowest common denominator of engineering training, churning out manufactured products for countries around the world.
Home-made tech forces
One of the reasons why Chinese startups can prototype at such an accelerated rate is that they take advantage of local tech hubs. These facilities allow startups to rent office space, equipment, and more–eliminating expensive overhead costs while also fostering a sense of community and support. For a tech startup’s success in prototyping its product, being closer to industry experts and resources as well as proximity to large financial markets might be just as important as proximity to Silicon Valley’s startups and innovation.
For instance, take Huaqiangbei in Shenzhen for prototyping needs. With processors, motors, sensors, and circuit boards, this massive market has all of the electronic components imaginable. This place would be like a godsend for an entrepreneur! Don’t worry, those needing a startup engineer or product designer needn’t walk the thin line of distributors or manufacturers – they can take to the equally harrowing but far shorter task of searching Huaqiangbei Street instead! Of course, they also gain an attractive other benefit, though access to information.
Shield Works’ in-house engineering team is well-seasoned and bilingual, and we have over 17 years of product prototyping experience in China. Contact us now for more!