OEM Manufacturing
Your Guide to OEM Products: What They Are and Their Benefits
Projections show that the global automotive OEM market will reach a value of $39.503 billion by 2028.
When it comes to aftermarket car parts, the general belief is that they may be lower in quality than factory originals. Your old air conditioner, for example, finally gives out after all of these years. The next day, you head into the dealership and purchase a factory replacement for optimal performance.
Auto parts aren’t the only thing produced by OEMs – in fact, they can create all kinds of components for various industries. So how do you decide between the two? Well, first you need to know about OEM products.
In this guide, we’ll go through what they are, why you should use them, and anything else you need to know.
OEM Products Defined
An OEM (original equipment manufacturer) is a company that makes parts that are considered to be as good as the components of products from another manufacturer. For example, a manufacturer that makes smartphone screens that are as good as the ones that come as standard in iPhones would be classed as an OEM.
OEMs generally work closely with VARs (value-added resellers) to add value to an original item, which the VAR then sells. An OEM may make custom designs based on the needs and specifications of a VAR.
How OEMs Work
An OEM typically makes sub-assembly parts, but will sometimes produce completed items (although this is rare). An OEM as above, that makes smartphone screens, may also make a range of other electrical components. They might then sell these on to a company like Samsung or Apple, which assemble these parts into TVs, smartphones, computer monitors, etc.
Many parts made by an OEM are quite insignificant on their own. Most final products are assembled from many individual parts before the VAR sells them under its own brand name.
As OEM product manufacturing consists of parts and components, they focus mainly on B2B (business-to-business) sales, whereas VARs sell primarily to end-users. With that being said, the number of OEMs selling directly to customers has increased in recent years.
This is mainly with certain types of products. OEMs that make computer components, for example, often sell directly to customers who build their own computers. Car part manufacturers often do the same as many people carry out car repairs and upgrades themselves.
Despite this, the auto industry contains one of the most basic OEM examples there is. OEMs manufacture parts like brake cylinders and exhaust systems, which they sell to auto manufacturers. These manufacturers then assemble these parts into cars, which they market to auto dealers, who sell them on to customers.
Newer OEMs
In recent years a new definition for OEMs has arisen, and it’s most commonly associated with the computer industry. It refers to a company that buys products, then rebrands them or incorporates them into new products under their own name.
Microsoft, for example, creates Windows software which it then sells to HP. HP incorporates this into its devices and sells them to customers under the HP brand.
In this situation, Microsoft would traditionally be the OEM, and HP would be the VAR. In most cases, however, the product guide from HP would refer to themselves as the OEM.
You do have the option, however, to go for aftermarket parts instead of OEM products. This is true for almost any component, and whenever you need to replace or upgrade anything, you need to choose which you think is best.
OEM vs Aftermarket
People often get OEM and aftermarket confused, but they’re almost opposites in some ways. OEM parts are made for specific products. Aftermarket parts are made by another company, and customers can use these as a replacement for the original parts.
There’s a lot of competition here in many industries. Among the most common is the auto parts industry.
If a consumer has a Ford Taurus, for example, and the thermostat breaks. They can replace it with an OEM part made by ABC Thermostats, which would be identical to the original one. Alternatively, various other companies make other parts that would serve well as a replacement – these are aftermarket parts.
In many situations, a consumer would go for an aftermarket part because it’s cheaper and/or easier to obtain. Sometimes it may be the only option. If the consumer is replacing a part from an older product, the manufacturer may no longer support it, meaning the OEM might not make the parts needed anymore.
Sometimes certain aftermarket product manufacturers become well known for the quality of the parts they produce. In these cases, consumers may specifically look for parts made by such an aftermarket manufacturer.
This is something else that is commonly seen in the auto parts industry. Hurst Performance, for example, is an aftermarket gear shifter manufacturer. They’re also an OEM manufacturer of some parts for various muscle car automakers.
Their products are generally seen as being superior to the parts that most cars come with as standard. Because of this, people will often choose them for replacement parts instead of going with OEM parts. People will sometimes upgrade to Hurst Performance gear shifters before their original even needs replacing.
The Benefits of OEM Products From Shield Works
When buying parts, you may need to decide what type of manufacturer to go with. Several advantages come with using an OEM.
Response
You’re likely to get a faster response from an OEM than other manufacturers. This is because they can identify and produce the part quicker as they have access to the technical drawings. At Shield Works we aim to always keep turnaround time to a minimum, ensuring we get your parts manufactured and out to you in good time.
Quality
With OEM parts, quality is key. We work to make sure our parts are identical to the original component, if not better. We test all parts we create to make sure they meet the specifications of the original, ensuring high quality and reliability.
Any parts you receive from us will be fully compatible with the product and perform just as the original part did. At Shield Works, we go by ISO standard work practices to ensure we maintain a high product standard. All of our processes and record-keeping also meet ISO standards, maintaining high-quality practices across all areas of our business.
Shield Works is a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE). As such we adhere to all PRC laws and regulations in terms of product manufacturing, assembly, distribution, and exportation.
Support
All OEM support engineers should have access to the engineering team that designed the original products. This means they’ll also have access to any information or details needed to ensure the part is up to standard. With a high level of technical knowledge and support, we can ensure that we make all of our parts correctly, with minimal room for error.
Value
OEM parts should always be as good as the original part. Because of this, you would expect them to have the same longevity. If a part serves the same function but fails much quicker, it may not be as worthwhile to replace it.
Any parts you get from an OEM manufacturer like Shield Works should last just as long under the same conditions as the parts they’re replacing. The performance will be just as good, and it will degrade at the same rate or slower.
One of the downsides of aftermarket parts is that they often don’t match up here. While they may work well enough for the same purpose, they’ll often fail much quicker. This is because they tend to be made with lower quality materials, and with worse manufacturing processes.
ROI
In most cases, an OEM manufacturer produces parts in a very cost-efficient manner. While aftermarket parts can also be very cheap, the lower level of quality means that they’ll need replacing more often, and they’re more likely to have defects from the start.
OEM parts are specifically designed to exact specifications to match your equipment. In the long run, this will keep the need for maintenance down, helping save on costs. It also means you’ll experience less downtime, further increasing the ROI (return on investment).
Costs
Shield Works is based in Guangdong, China. The cost of product manufacturing varies depending on the country in question. In China, manufacturing costs are often much lower than in many other locations.
By saving costs on manufacturing, we can offer our OEM parts at a lower price than many competitors, without compromising the quality.
While all manufacturing takes place in China, Shield Works is 100% British owned and managed. This means that we maintain western standards for communication, service, and business ethics at all levels of our organization.
Transparency
People may have concerns about products being manufactured so far away from a business’ main center of operations. To ensure all standards are held we maintain 24/7 video streams from our warehouse in Guangdong. Using this you can observe your manufacturing area at any time to ensure proper practices are being adhered to.
Security
One of the best ways of ensuring standards are maintained is to only allow authorized personnel into manufacturing zones. To do this, we use fingerprint access which helps provide full IP (intellectual property) protection at the manufacturing location.
Access
While a 24/7 video feed is useful for monitoring a manufacturing zone, it doesn’t give a good look at the parts themselves, so you may want a better idea of how everything is being handled. We’ll give you full access to production monitoring in real-time. This way you can get details from your assembly line whenever you need them.
You can look at information such as communication lines and statistical reporting to ensure things are on track. This also means you can communicate directly with your production team in China if need be.
Flexibility
You can contact us at any time if there are any changes you need to make. Within our OEM manufacturing processes, we can make any adjustments to ensure your orders meet your needs. If you have any product adjustments you need to make or project requirements that we’re not aware of, just let us know and we’ll make the necessary changes.
Experience
Shield Works, with already over 17 years under its belt now, was launched the core values of transparency and integrity. We still carry these principles on today, and they’ve been a key component of our success in the manufacturing industry.
Since being founded we’ve completed over 15,000 projects. Our team is skilled in a variety of processes and sectors.
Capabilities
Over the years our team has tackled all kinds of projects. We can produce a range of hard goods, soft goods, and electronics such as:
- Furniture
- Tools and hardware products
- Automotive parts
- Safety equipment
- Jewelry
- Footwear
- Bags and accessories
- Home and garden appliances
- Lighting
- More
Whatever OEM parts you need, we can manufacture them professionally and in good time.
Getting Your OEM Products
OEM products are ideal if you want high-quality parts for your goods. The products we manufacture at Shield Works will always meet or exceed expectations, making them ideal for any situation.
We pride ourselves on transparency, so you’ll be able to see what’s happening with your parts at any stage of the process. We have a wide range of capabilities and can meet whatever needs and specifications you have. OEM parts provide quality, reliability, and longevity.
The team at Shield Works Precision Manufacturing is ready to take on any project you have. If you want to know more about our services, or if have any other questions for us, contact us today.
Manufacturing in China: 5 Facts You Should Know
Though it seems like a lot of overseas companies outsource their production to China, there are plenty of misconceptions about Chinese manufacturing that can come back to haunt you.
Before you set out to reach a manufacturing partner in China, there are some facts you should know so you can prepare yourself for success instead of falling into the pitfalls. Let’s dive in.
1. Manufacturer VS. Supplier
If you’re looking to get your product made in China, you’ve probably already heard the terms “manufacturer” and “supplier” thrown around a lot.
They seem to be the same thing, right?
Yes, but also no!
Though the two words are closely related, they are not always meaning the same person in the manufacturing industry.
Generally speaking, a manufacturer would be considered more of an in-house entity that operates as your micro-factory with all the machinery and workers required to create your product from start to finish.
Suppliers are those who supply goods or services; but they can sometimes also act as manufacturers, wholesalers, or distributors who purchase existing brands and products (usually from somewhere else).
It’s imperative to make sure that you understand the difference between “manufacturer” and “supplier” and figure out what kind of services they can provide for your business.
If you’re a newcomer to the market, make sure to work with someone who doesn’t take advantage of inexperienced clients.
Before signing any contract or making any upfront payment, it is important to know if your manufacturing partner is qualified for what they produce and has an official business license to run a company in China.
2. Manufacturing Costs Vary Across Different Cities
Though you may think that manufacturing costs in China are lower than that of western countries, the prices in manufacturing among Chinese cities differ significantly.
One of the reasons for this is that China has undergone enormous changes and development in recent decades. This explains why the average monthly salary differs between cities or regions.
In this case, you may find out that some cities display relatively stable manufacturing cost patterns while some raise their manufacturing service fee due to the increment in labor costs and land prices.
The other main reason is that China is paying great attention to improving its high-end manufacturing capabilities. Now, more and more high-tech manufacturing factories are well-established to pursue productivity and lower costs.
3. Finding the Right Manufacturer in Your Area
Locating for a manufacturing company that produces what you need is easy unless you confirm everything you need beforehand.
The main thing you should know is that many manufacturers usually stick to one specific type of product.
For example, it may be hard to find someone who can make “home appliances“ but it’s easier to reach a blender manufacturer who specializes in this field for years.
See the difference?
So when reaching a potential manufacturer in China, keep in mind to find someone who has experience and expertise in your product area. Otherwise, it will end up costing you even more than if you do the job yourself.
4. Don’t Skip Quality Control
Product quality is a major factor for western businesses because defective products can lead to financial losses as well as angry customers who will complain about your company sending them an unsatisfied product.
When outsourcing your production to China, it isn’t enough just to send your idea or design to a factory and expect them to produce the item correctly – even though you deeply trust them.
Make sure you’re thoroughly involved in each step of production and conduct quality control so that you can be confident that the manufacturer is capable to deliver products that meet your expectations and the quality standards.
5. Delivery Delays Can Be Normal
Manufacturers often negotiate with multiple foreign companies at once, so there’s no guarantee they will give you their full attention or work quickly enough to meet your deadlines.
Make sure your manufacturer gives you a detailed production plan so you have an idea of how long it will take to produce your items.
Another factor worth considering is how long it will take for the items to arrive once they are shipped.
The delivery time can vary depending on where the factory is located, where you want to receive the product, and even if there are any Covid cases in the region
So you have to remain realistic about the lead time and deadline. Keep communicating with your manufacturing partner so you can receive an update on your production process.
The Solution For Your Manufacturing Project
If you haven’t yet worked with a manufacturer in China, you have to list your needs and expectations before making a final decision.
Also, never choose the one who offers the lowest price, work with those who have long-term experience and know how to help your business.
Shield Works can be your best manufacturing partner. With our British ownership and management background, we take pride in our over 17 years of international project experience and excellent team. Contact us for a no-cost consultation!
Reasons the China Manufacturing Boom Is Actually Good
China produces over 28% of the world’s manufacturing. Because of the China manufacturing boom, it’s not surprising that China’s gotten the nickname “the world’s factory.”
But why is there an increase in China manufacturing? How can it benefit your business? And how has the COVID-19 pandemic affected global relations?
Read this guide to find out everything you want to know about the China manufacturing market and why it’s actually good for your business.
What’s Driving the China Manufacturing Boom?
There are several factors that contribute to the boom in China manufacturing.
For most people, the lower cost of labor is probably the first factor they’d consider. There are lower wages in China. This makes manufacturing much cheaper.
China is the most populous country in the world. This means there are more workers than jobs. That keeps the cost of labor relatively low.
However, certain provinces have begun enacting more laws to protect workers. This includes installing minimum wages throughout the country.
Manufacturing is still cheaper when outsourced to Chinese factories. But, the cost of production isn’t the only consideration you should take into account.
The Chinese-U.S. Business Ecosystem
Manufacturing isn’t the only part of industrial production one must consider. In fact, there is a large network to consider that includes:
- Suppliers
- Distributors
- Government agencies
- Customers
American companies such as Apple utilize China’s efficient supply chain. This efficiency helps them to keep costs down and margins high.
Most U.S. companies operating in China find it unrealistic economically to complete productions on U.S. soil.
Additionally, business relations remain strong between the U.S. and China. Though political tensions may be high, many businesses feel confident in their Chinese manufacturing relationships.
In fact, this is the most confidence many businesses have felt since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lower Compliance Standards
Product assembly in China does not have to meet certain guidelines American businesses must follow. For example, China is much more relaxed about the following standards:
- Involuntary and child labor
- Health and Safety Guidelines
- Wage laws
- Environmental protection laws
Though labor laws are changing in China, they are still far less strict than in the United States. This helps to save on labor costs.
Chinese factories also save on waste management. This is because environmental protection laws are not strictly enforced.
Savings on Taxes and Duties
In 1985, China enacted the export tax rebate policy. This policy abolished double taxation on exported goods. This was responsible for making Chinese manufacturing much more attractive to potential investors.
Exported goods in China are subject to 0% value-added tax (VAT). That means these products are exempt from VATs.
Chinese products are also exempt from import taxes. This keeps production costs low, which attracts more investors.
International Expansion
China is a massive pillar in the Asian market. The Asian market in general is growing at an extremely rapid rate.
Doing business in China helps to expand your reach to these valuable Asian markets.
These expansions can multiply your company’s business opportunities exponentially. You also streamline your ability to introduce products into markets across Asia, especially Chinese markets.
How Did COVID-19 Affect Chinese Manufacturing?
It’s no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic affected the boom of Chinese manufacturing. China was, after all, the first country to experience the effects of the pandemic.
It is common practice for Chinese businesses to take a week off for Lunar New Year celebrations. In 2020, this break was extended. This was China’s attempt to stop the spread of COVID.
Unfortunately, like many American businesses, Chinese businesses experienced delays in production. Many workers became sick, slowing down manufacturing.
Additionally, issues in the global supply chain created fear around reliance on outsourced manufacturing. This included Chinese manufacturing.
Chinese Recovery in a Post-COVID Economy
However, Chinese factories continued on. Many of them capitalized on mask production to keep them operating throughout COVID.
Now, it appears that China’s manufacturing is on the come-up. However, since the roughest days of the pandemic, it would appear China has made a full recovery.
How Did the US-China Trade War Affect Chinese Manufacturing?
While in office, US President Donald Trump attempted to decouple the Chinese and US economies. This created a trade war that affected, and still affects, the manufacturing industry.
However, an annual member survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai revealed that 92.1% of its members had no plans to leave China.
Even with Trump’s push, leaving Chinese manufacturing was not an attractive prospect to many companies. Most of these companies have revenues above $500 million USD.
How Is China Upgrading Its Manufacturing Industry?
The Chinese government’s goal is to have 30% of its gross domestic product (GDP) come from new industries. So what are they doing to meet this goal?
By 2025, China plans to have strong innovation in its manufacturing industry. They expect to use these innovations to drive high-quality growth.
Some manufacturing innovations China is currently working on include:
- Sharing production facilities
- Sharing tools and equipment amongst facilities
- Making intellectual resources such as designs and development practices public use
Their goal is to use this plan to boost resource allocation. This will help to improve efficiency and drive higher ROIs for business manufacturing in China.
Take Advantage of the Chinese Manufacturing Boom
So, you can see how Chinese manufacturing is a valuable market for American businesses.
The factors driving the China manufacturing boom can help to lower costs and boost your ROIs so that your business sees significant returns. Plus, you can streamline your business for introduction into the up-and-coming Asian markets.
Contact our team if you’re ready to begin manufacturing in China. With Shield Works, you can rest easy knowing you’re making the right choice for your business’s manufacturing needs.
The Future of OEM Manufacturing
COVID-19 affected many people’s lives physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially. This also affected several different businesses, causing them to halt their production. Fortunately, even though the pandemic still lingers, there are many OEM manufacturing companies that can still meet the demands and needs of many customers.
If you’ve ever considered working with an OEM manufacturing company, but you aren’t sure how that relationship will look due to the market’s changing trends, you aren’t alone. Many different companies are turning to OEMs to help with their production needs to keep up with product quality demands. If you want to learn more about OEM companies and how they can benefit your company in today’s changing landscape, continue reading below.
What Is OEM?
An Original Equipment Manufacturer, also known as OEM, is a company that produces and sells parts of a product or products for a particular company. That company then takes those parts of a product or complete product and sells it to their clients. OEMs commonly operate in the computer and auto industries.
An original equipment manufacturer often works directly with a retail company. For example, Lenovo’s computer parts aren’t all manufactured by Lenovo themselves. Instead, Lenovo utilizes a manufacturing company to create their processors.
Examples of OEM
To better explain how an original equipment manufacturer works, let’s use Company D as an example. Company D manufacturers several different versions of a memory card to sell to various computer manufacturers or retailers, like Lenovo or Dell. Those companies are considered value-added resellers who will sell their version of the product to their clients.
OEM vs. Value-Added Reseller
Value-added resellers, also known as VARs, sell products from the OEM, but they also incorporate certain added features before doing so. The two companies benefit from one another because VARs help original equipment manufacturers sell their products.
OEM vs. Aftermarket
While an OEM produces original equipment, an aftermarket manufacturer creates products that are made to look like and work with those of an OEM. To simplify, aftermarket parts or products are not original because different companies manufacture them.
Some of these aftermarket companies are locally based, whereas others are foreign-based. Although these parts are cheaper, they don’t have the same guarantees that an OEM part or product would.
How to Make Aftermarket Parts
As we all know, as time passes and technology advances, well-known auto companies, and technology companies release updated versions of their products. Most auto companies update their vehicles at least once every six years, and phone manufacturing companies change almost every year or two. So what happens to those old models and machines used to create those products?
These companies sell them. Many manufacturers purchase those old molds and models to create similar products to market.
Example of Aftermarket Products
You commonly see aftermarket parts in the auto industry. Auto shops and insurance companies prefer to use aftermarket parts over OEM parts whenever someone gets into an auto accident and needs their vehicle fixed. This is because aftermarket products are cheaper to manufacture and purchase.
Characteristics of an OEM
If you want to know if a company is an original equipment manufacturer, there are a few characteristics to look out for. For example, OEMs sell licenses which means they typically sell their product licenses to the resellers they market to.
Hardware
You can easily purchase hardware off the internet through an OEM or a retail product manufacturer. However, the OEM hardware typically is shipped without cables or adapters necessary for the installation and operation of said hardware.
Software
OEM software isn’t very common, but there are OEM software products. Some of the OEM software products created are versions of Windows productivity software, operating system, and security applications. This licensed software typically does not come with technical support, but it is instead provided with basic documentation and a few logos.
Most of these products are created for specific machines. For example, an OEM Windows system for an HP computer won’t operate the same on Dell or Lenovo. Even more so, that certain software may work for one specific HP model, but it won’t perform the same on other models.
Benefits of Original Equipment Manufacturers
There are several different benefits of using an OEM manufacturers in china. For example, when working with an OEM, you can expect a quick response time because less time is required to identify and produce the parts you need. Most manufacturers you work with like to have their products assembled and sent to you within a timely manner.
Quality
When replacing a part on a machine or a vehicle, you will want to have the utmost confidence that the replacement part is the same, if not better, than what was there before. The only way to secure this confidence is to use an OEM. When using an OEM manufacturing company, they will ensure that your products or parts of a product are created and tested to match your original specification.
Support
When approaching OEM support engineers, you will want to be reassured that those engineers have access to the same engineering team that designed your products or parts. Most, if not all, OEM support engineers do have that access, which will provide you with a wide variety of engineering and technical support. OEM staff members are pretty knowledgeable, and they can help you with all your part needs.
Value and Lifespan
When replacing parts in your products or machines, you expect that you will continue to get the same performance you had before needing the replacement. Buying from an OEM manufacturing company ensures that your replacement part will have that same quality, and there will be no degradation in performance.
Warranty
Having a warranty is one of the most important benefits when working with any OEM manufacturer. Should your company receive your parts with any defects, or if the parts are faulty, you can always reach out to your OEM. They will make sure to make it right so that you aren’t stuck with unusable products.
High Return on Investments
Since the parts your OEM supplies are designed to perform and fit factory specifications, these parts increase the life of your product. In the long run, this can save your business a lot of money and help reduce downtime.
Current OEM Trends
The relationship between OEM companies, dealerships, and other companies has always been healthy and symbiotic. Most OEMs depend on their networks to sell and service their products.
On the other hand, these companies have fallen back on OEMs to provide specific components or parts. In the auto industry, original equipment manufacturers also have the task of financing their servicing activities while the cars are covered under warranty.
Updates to the Market
Most OEM companies are now working towards creating remote software upgrades and establishing direct relationships with their clients with subscription models. With that said, this means that OEMs are taking ownership of customer relations which usually falls back on the dealers, or as you now know, VARs.
The dealers still get a significant portion of profits from after-sales and services. Activities like new car sales or new product sales can also create a profit, but the margin is relatively small.
What Does This Changing Landscape Mean?
Consumer demands of the auto industry are changing. Apart from the shift in needing or wanting more electric vehicles, cars are now viewed as a part of a shared mobility service. Models of car ownership are changing as well, meaning that customers now view their cars like smartphones. These clients expect their vehicles to be updated and refuse to pay a premium for a service that offers benefits down the line.
OEMs are currently working on creating capabilities that reduce cost due to connected diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and over-the-air software updates. They are also seizing more opportunities for direct relationships with consumers, such as creating innovative techniques to sell cars.
Customer Trends and the Marketplace
As technology continues to advance and the way we work and live continues to change, customers are doing things more online. To support dealerships, OEM manufacturing companies have to consider the value they add.
As mentioned earlier, OEMs are set to take greater ownership of customer relationships, but they should provide additional support to dealerships to ensure they don’t just disappear altogether.
To help with this, OEMs can incentivize dealerships to drive traffic to online showrooms, or they can reward dealerships for high brand engagement.
How to Find an OEM Manufacturer
When looking for an OEM, you will want to ensure that they have experience making products similar to yours. For example, an OEM who specializes in computer parts may not have the same capabilities for creating auto parts. You also must consider if you want to use a factory in the United States or overseas. Most OEMs who have better capabilities are overseas, not in the United States.
Domestic vs. Overseas
Manufacturing in the United States has its benefits, but it also comes with a few disadvantages. With an OEM in the U.S., you have more control over production; you can also visit the site regularly and avoid dealing with international shipping logistics.
Although that may sound ideal, you will most likely have to pay more for parts and labor. With overseas manufacturing, you still have a say in your product specification, but the cost to the manufacturer is much cheaper.
Even though dealing with international shipping logistics may sound like a headache, it won’t be when you partner with the right company. They will make sure to have a dedicated contact who can speak your language and explain the entire process to you.
Review Their Certifications
Not all manufacturers in China are the same, nor do they have the same qualifications. No matter how well-established the plant is, there is a possibility that they don’t have the necessary licenses or certifications.
To ensure that your manufacturer creates your product in compliance with regulatory standards, make sure that your supplier has the proper licenses and certifications to assemble your product.
Common ISO certifications manufacturers should have:
- ISO 14001: Environmental Management
- ISO 9001:2015: Quality Management Systems
- ISO 45001:2015: Occupational Health and Safety
Each industry has its own certifications, so each manufacturer needs to have the same certificates and documents to ensure they produce high-quality products. Before working with a specific manufacturer, make sure that you check the required materials for assembling.
Capacity
The last thing you want is to work with a manufacturer who doesn’t have the capacity to manufacture your parts or products. You wouldn’t want to send your money and products to a company just for your products to be stuck on a shelf awaiting their assembly.
To ensure that you don’t get stuck with a company that doesn’t assemble or manufacture your products as fast as you need, make sure you check in with your manufacturer’s production space. The OEM should provide you with information about their current output rate and deadlines.
Produce High-Quality Products
Partnering with a reputable OEM manufacturing company is critical to make sure that your business meets the demands of your clients and ensures long-lasting performance and high-quality products. Working with a reputable OEM manufacturing company is more than just finding someone reputable and knowledgeable; it is about creating a stable relationship.
You want to make sure that the company you work with values you and your business just as you do. Contact us now if you are ready to create a lasting relationship with an OEM manufacturing company overseas. Our team is prepared to answer any questions or concerns you have about our future partnership.
How to Choose the Right OEM Manufacturers in China
Do you have a new product that you want to sell for your company, but you are unsure what type of manufacturer to use? Have you decided to use a manufacturer in China, but you aren’t sure what type of manufacturers are available? Most people don’t know that there are OEM manufacturers in China in addition to ODM manufacturers.
So what is the difference between the two? We will give you a hint; one provides more protection and more specification help than the other. They are both excellent options to bring your products to the market, but you should be aware of a few other key differences. This brief manufacturing guide will cover the difference between the two and who you can contact for more information.
What is OEM Manufacturing?
Before we get into what OEM Manufacturing is, we must first define what OEM is. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturing, and it is a form of outsourced manufacturing. OEM factories have the capabilities to manufacture products according to your unique specifications and designs.
Before an OEM manufacturer can produce your product, you must complete your research and development. This includes engineering, market research, and design.
Once you have all the components of your product down in writing, you can then reach out to an OEM manufacturer to create your products in bulk. The original equipment manufacturer will set up the production of your product to make sure that they can produce the product on time, on quality, at your designated budget.
Advantages of OEM Manufacturing
One of the most significant advantages of OEM is the fact that you have complete control over your intellectual property. This is a huge deal, especially if you have a breakthrough project and you choose to ship your production services overseas.
When you control the research and development of your product, you have complete control over your intellectual property. This gives you better bargaining position and makes it easier to switch to another supplier if you need to. Even though you have full control of your intellectual property, it is best to protect it at all costs.
Specialized Technology
If you don’t have the right expertise or equipment to create certain parts of your product, you can depend on your OEM to have it for you. It is best to take advantage of the technology offered by your OEM manufacturer to complete your project. Access to this type of technology and expertise ensures that the manufacturer will create your product with top-tier quality.
Cost-Effective
When you partner with OEM manufacturers in China, they can streamline the process of creating your product in large volumes. China is also well known for its efficient supply chains, making it cheaper to produce your product. This provides your business with higher profit margins, more revenue, and increased sales.
Disadvantages of OEM Manufacturing
One main disadvantage of using OEM manufacturing is a limited selection of suppliers for certain specialized items. Most OEM manufacturing companies prefer to work with businesses that create a lot of demand, so if you don’t sell your goods fast, they most likely won’t work with you.
Risk of Infringement
Because you are sending your items to a company to create your product, there is a risk of infringement. It is important to note that every country has its own rules and regulations for intellectual property. If you aren’t diligent in protecting your product, you risk someone selling your components to your top competitors.
No Troubleshooting
Once you have your specifications down and send it over to the manufacturer, they will create your product based on what you send. This means that they won’t troubleshoot or correct any faulty designs as they produce your items. They will only manufacture based on what they have from you.
What is ODM?
Original Design Manufacturing, also known as ODM, is another form of manufacturing. Unlike OEMs, ODMs provide product development services, and depending on the company; they can help you with the entire product lifecycle. The exact scope of what an original design manufacturing company can do differs from company to company.
Let’s say that your company has an excellent idea for a gaming console. You did your market research and found an opportunity to create a low-priced gaming console of decent quality in China.
You and your team will need to develop some features you want the console to have, but you don’t necessarily have any specifications or technical drawings. If you want a gaming system that meets your requirements, you can reach out to an ODM to fulfill what you need.
Your ODM company can help you create specifications and new designs based on your idea. The ODM may already have its own product lines that you can customize if you would like.
Advantages of ODM
One significant advantage of using original design manufacturing companies is that you don’t have to make substantial upfront investments. You won’t have to pay for any tooling; the ODM will take care of that.
Technical Resources
With an ODM, you don’t need technical resources that provide detailed specifications and designs. Instead, the ODM will handle all of that for you. Many Amazon FBA sellers prefer to use ODMs to create and sell their products quickly.
Quick Turnaround
ODM companies don’t worry about testing, developing, or researching a product. They usually have already created products that they can rebrand for your business. To ensure you don’t run into issues with another company claiming that you copied their idea, the ODM will handle making sure the product uniquely links to your company.
Least Expensive Manufacturing Route
Testing and designing a product takes a lot of time and requires a decent amount of capital. When you partner with an ODM manufacturer, you have the opportunity to save money while you focus on the core aspect of your business.
Reliable Products
Depending on your product, certification is typically required before your product can hit the market. To ensure that your product meets quality requirements, ODM manufacturers will handle all quality testing and inspections. They will also get the proper product certificates you need before selling your product.
Disadvantages of ODM
Although these manufacturers provide you with a quick and easy way to create a product for your business, working with them can make it harder to stand out from the competition. Your manufacturer will sell the exact product you create to other companies with minor alterations.
Even if you manage to make significant sales volumes, your ODM most likely won’t honor your changes if your customers request customizations or upgrades. Most manufacturers don’t develop new products, especially if a specific product requires a full or a partial redesign.
No Intellectual Property Rights
Because your manufacturer designed, tested, and developed these products, they own the item’s intellectual properties. This means that you have no control over the ODM’s legal decisions about the product.
You also have no control over who the supplier sells the item to. There is a chance they could sell your product to another competitor.
There is also a chance that the item you buy from your ODM could be another company’s intellectual property. If you are unaware of this and you sell your product on the market, you’re at a risk of facing a lawsuit.
How to Find an OEM or ODM Manufacturer in China
Choosing an OEM manufacturer in China can be an overwhelming experience. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of manufacturers in China who can help bring your product to life.
The best way to find the proper manufacturer for you is to look up some and make a list of those you like best. There are certain companies that have high-quality components, quick turnarounds, and high customer service ratings.
Shortlist Your Companies
Once you have a list of companies you may want to work with, it would be best to shortlist them. Look over each company’s length of time in business and see if they specialize in the component you need.
Other essential details to look over:
- Certifications the company has for their production capability
- Business licenses
- If the company has already exported products to the United States
- Their minimum order quantity (MOQ)
If you like a company but have questions about its qualifications, check out its reviews. Most previous clients will rate the company and put what they did or did not like about them. The best way to find out if they have what you need is to contact them.
Review Their Credentials
Even if a company tells you that they have the right qualifications, it is better to verify those credentials to ensure that they are actually a legitimate company and not a middleman. There are many ways to verify this information.
For one, you can ask the company for their audited accounts, ask for product samples, or you can check their Value Added Tax Invoice. You can also ask for the Chinese name of the factory, the location of the factory, and the local government office assigned to the factory. The government office should have a copy of the factory’s registration and license records which you can use to verify their details.
Workplace Rights
Unlike the United States, there are many countries that do not have protocols in place to protect their workers. This means that some workers may not receive adequate breaks or time to get food. Some of these people work for more than eight to twelve hours a day without reasonable pay.
When sourcing the proper manufacturer for your company, make sure that you work with an ethical company. The last thing you want to do is partner with a company that does not care about its employees. Don’t spare efforts on researching their track records.
Hiring a Sourcing Agent
The most significant advantage of hiring a sourcing agent is that they can verify and identify different manufacturers on your behalf. These people have extensive networks of partners and in-depth knowledge of the sourcing market.
There are many companies that have sourcing agents on staff who can serve as the liaison between you and their manufacturer. They are able to speak to you in your native language while being able to translate for their company.
Visit the Manufacturers
If you aren’t able to visit the manufacturers yourself, you can use a sourcing agent to do that on your behalf. If you can take a trip out to China, you should go to check out the different available manufacturers.
When you go in person, you can see the facility first-hand and meet with key personnel at the manufacturing facility. While you are there, you can better explain the specifications of your product and if they can handle that for you. Visiting in person also lets the manufacturer know that you are serious about working with them to create your product.
Build Your Product With Confidence
There are many different ODM and OEM manufacturers in China that can bring your ideas to life, but which of the two is the better option for you? Choosing the proper manufacturer for your business needs shouldn’t be a complicated process, and that is what we are here for.
If you need help deciding between the two or if you are set on working with an OEM manufacturer in China, contact us now. Our team is fully prepared to answer any questions or concerns you have about our process!
Supply Chain Networks: Why Does Manufacturing in China Still Work?
Whether you’re outsourcing your production to China or not, there is no denying that manufacturing in China is one of the best options for many overseas companies.
China has maintained its position as the world’s largest manufacturing hub for the past 12 consecutive years.
There are many reasons why manufacturing in China still works.
Let’s dig a little deeper into why.
Does China Still Have Cost Advantages?
In the past decades, we have witnessed the rapid growth of China’s development. Most believed that it was the cost advantage and human resources that made China succeed.
Maybe it was, but things have changed.
Nowadays, China’s average labor costs aren’t low compared to many southeast Asian nations, such as Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines. The wages of skilled workers and high-teach talents grow fairly fast. Also, the average land prices are rapidly rising.
Therefore, there are many concerns that overseas companies tend to move their production to lower-cost countries since labor costs and land prices are getting higher in China.
However, it’s reported that foreign direct investment (FDI) topped 1 trillion RMB in 2021. It’s pretty clear that the comprehensive strength of China as a manufacturing superpower shouldn’t be neglected.
The answer is that China’s supply chain system is far more advanced than any other in the world.
Products Sold Worldwide Are Manufactured In China
You may have heard that in China, there are some small cities or even small towns
that are inconspicuous making world-class manufacturing contributions.
For example, Huludao, a coastal city in the Northeast China’s Liaoning province, is producing 25% of swimsuits in the global market. Since 2011, Huludao has been hosting an international beach-swimwear culture expo to expand its businesses and brands internationally.
In Yucheng County, located in Henan Province, more than 1,200 measuring tape making companies whose combined annual output exceeds 1.5 billion steel measuring tapes, accounting for 85% in China and 60% around the world.
So, you may wonder how such industries without high technology or difficult designs find their business opportunities.
By relying on China’s supply chain system, manufacturing in China will be more efficient, helping many businesses from home and abroad are able to gain their footholds.
The Problem Between Efficiency & Flexibility
Simply put, imagine that you want to outsource your production to a factory in China, there is no doubt that you will choose a high-efficiency factory to work with.
But keep in mind that only by being more specialized can a factory improve efficiency. In this case, it’s not hard to imagine this factory will be locked in certain product lines.
In this case, if you want something to be changed quickly, this factory will not be able to satisfy your needs and maybe you will turn to someone new. So, you also want the factory to be flexible. But flexibility is an obstacle to becoming a specialization.
Now you can see that keeping high efficiency and flexibility may not be compatible at the same time in a normal factory.
How Do Supply Chain Networks Work?
However, things will be much different if there is a powerful supply chain network.
Now there are tons of small and medium businesses (aka SMBs) that are ready to produce only some basic parts. And these SEBs are specialized in their field. Only in this way can these factories improve their efficiency without sacrificing much time and resources. Each SMB produces the basic elements, and every part can be easily assembled in another factory.
Then, all the SMBs get connected to be a wide supply chain network, solving the flexibility problem. In the end, these SMBs in the towns or the cities make themselves the certain type of manufacturing clusters.
It’s like Lego construction. Different factories produce different specific shapes of blocks with high efficiency. When you need some certain shape of blocks, you can purchase whatever you need and get them assembled, building your products.
The supply chain network connects businesses, making it easier for you to gather information and build your enterprise.
More importantly, the whole network nurtures an ability to control costs, which makes it hard for lower labor costs and land prices hard to contend with.
Let Shield Works Be Your Custom Manufacturing Partner
If are moving your production to China and looking for a reliable manufacturing partner, look no further. We are glad to help.
Shield Works is a British owned and managed company providing customized OEM manufacturing and assembly activities. Contact us to discuss your project today.
5 Tips for Original Equipment Manufacturing
Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) refers to the production of equipment made to the specifications of another company or manufacturer. This business model has been applied by companies around the world and is very common in China’s manufacturing industry, due to its extremely competitive market and high-quality products at reasonable prices. However, there are several key factors that are unique to the OEM model that you must be aware of before beginning your venture into China’s Original Equipment Manufacturing market.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
If you are new to importing and plan to start your own business, then Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a good place to start. OEM refers to products produced by other companies that are rebranded or sold under another company’s name. For example, if you own a clothing line, you could consider approaching different apparel companies and getting their apparels made with your branding on them and then sell them yourself. When looking at starting an OEM business it’s important that all parties understand what is expected of each other and how everything will work together in order to make sure it ends up as a positive experience for everyone involved.
Finding a Good Supplier
Finding a good supplier is probably one of your biggest challenges. There are literally thousands of manufacturers and suppliers out there, each with its own website, reputation, capabilities and pricing. The problem is that you can’t get to know every single one, even if you try. So what do you do? Find an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) with whom you can work long-term. This way, once your first orders start rolling in, they’ll be able to follow up on it without ever bothering you. Just make sure they’re easy to contact by email or the chat app everyone uses there, WeChat, to be specific—you’ll need them to be responsive because customer satisfaction is key when things go wrong or when there’s something that needs fixing or changing on the spot.
Factories vs. OEMs
While it’s important to understand how both factories and OEMs operate, each has its own purpose. Factories will typically manufacture products to order based on a minimum order quantity (MOQ). That is, they will produce your product based on however many pieces you purchase; with that said, there is no guarantee of quality. OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) are different because they have a brand or intellectual property that gives them more autonomy over their manufacturing decisions; as such, OEMS will have stringent processes in place for ensuring quality control. With that said, choosing between factories and OEMs can come down to where your manufacturing budget aligns best with your business goals.
Outsourcing is never simple
Researching, scouting, and getting to know potential manufacturers and vendors is time-consuming. And when it comes time to find someone you can trust, it’s difficult to know where to start. At last year’s CES technology trade show in Las Vegas, there was a firm presented as a go-to manufacturer of devices that look like iPads but cost far less. But when we investigated further, we found that almost everything about them was false—they weren’t made by Apple; they didn’t even look like real iPads. The products were unlicensed knockoffs sold through some big retail chains in the US—which said nothing about them being fake or inexpensive.
Dealing with hiccups
A manufacturing hiccup can be anything from an underperforming supplier to a supply chain delay, but it can severely disrupt your production schedule. What do you do if there’s some kind of snag? Your first step is to identify what exactly has gone wrong. If you need help, ask questions and get as much information as possible so that you can resolve it quickly. Ask yourself: What is your problem really? Is there just one issue or several issues adding up? Is it something that you can solve on your own or is it something that needs additional resources and support? Next, figure out how important solving this problem right now really is—and decide what resources are required to get things back on track.
It’s a common misconception that manufacturing in China is expensive. In fact, it’s quite affordable, especially when you compare it to labor and material costs in other developed countries. But we understand your concerns regarding culture, communication and IP protection, as we, C2W, are a one-stop manufacturing solution provider founded and managed by British and based in China, with our own production facility and in-house bilingual engineers. If you are interested in getting to know more about how we can be of help with your product manufacturing while protecting your IP, please feel free to contact us.
Outsourced OEM Production: Is It Always the Best Choice?
If you’re the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) of a design spec, then production is one of your most important considerations. Unfortunately, many companies stumble when it decides to make their OEM products in-house or through outsourcing. In most cases, outsourced OEM products are cheaper and quicker.
But, is this always the best course of action? In this article, we’ll explore whether or not outsourcing your OEM production is the best course of action. Let’s get started!
Outsourced OEM Production
Outsourcing your OEM production involves allowing another manufacturer to produce your product. You keep all the trademarks and intellectual property, but another company does the production.
Most often, this is done with multinational suppliers. Consulting companies with expertise in finding manufacturers will usually help you get in touch with the right company. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons involved in this method.
Advantages
The biggest advantage that comes with OEM production is cost. Since the outsourcing company is creating your product in bulk, you typically end up saving money on production costs. What’s more, the final product is generally of superior quality. As long as you have strict testing standards, then the outsource OEM firm should be able to meet them if they’re competent.
Many outsourced OEM companies also have specialized technology that allows them to create components you wouldn’t be able to create on your own. In the past, OEM production typically only worked for larger companies. However, this is beginning to change. Smaller companies with excellent design skills can take advantage of this type of outsourcing.
It allows them to avoid dealing with factory floor production skills, which take a lot of energy and money to manage. Instead, they can focus on more design and promotion while allowing a skilled workforce to handle the production.
Disadvantages
Unfortunately, there are some downsides to outsourcing your OEM productions. For one thing, you’re at the mercy of your supplier when it comes to quality control. As such, you’re responsible for any problems that might occur at the end of the day. Furthermore, you may have difficulty finding an OEM production firm that’s willing to take you on.
These companies generally only like dealing with clients that create a lot of demand. As such, smaller companies may have a difficult time finding multinational production firms, especially if their products are hard to make.
Finally, if you don’t go with a company that you’re sure of, then you may be at risk of property theft. This occurs when a manufacturer infringes or steals your intellectual property right. It occurs enough in the business, that you should inquire what the company is doing to fight against it.
In-House OEM Production
In-house production put vertical integration ahead of scale and affordability. Typically, in-house OEM production worked best for smaller companies. However, that’s beginning to change. Let’s take a lot at some of the pros and cons involved in this method.
Advantages
The biggest advantage to in-house production is the amount of control you get over your product. As the OEM, you’re naturally an expert when it comes to producing your work. As such, you don’t need to spend time teaching someone else to make it. In-house can also be more advantageous when it comes to scheduling concerns.
Since you don’t need to ship your product or parts over long distances, you can meet your scheduling needs more easily. In-house production also allows you to make more advanced components.
If your product requires a specific part that’s difficult to make, then you’ll have a lot of difficulties finding an OEM manufacturer to make it. However, with enough demand, you can find some custom manufacturing options.
Disadvantages
It shouldn’t come as a big surprise that there’s a huge shortage of skilled workers in America. Though this problem was a long time coming, it’s been exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the New York Times predicts that two million skilled jobs could go unfilled by 2025.
As such, finding workers for your in-house production may prove difficult. Another big factor is that it will cost even more to make your product in-house. The sad reality is that overseas production is much more affordable than domestic. What’s more, outsourced OEM production is typically higher in quality than in-house. So, ultimately, you’ll be paying more for a potentially inferior product.
Why China Is Uniquely Qualified to Handle OEM Product Manufacturing
There’s a reason why the vast majority of OEM outsourced production goes toward China. China accounts for over 28% of all global manufacturing output. The advanced production capabilities in the country make it easy to meet huge product numbers at an affordable price.
In particular, clothing and electronic brands like Nike and Apple outsource their manufacturing work to the company. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, China is poised to be one of the first countries to dive back into the manufacturing industry.
Despite being one of the early countries to be hit, the government has been able to largely contain the spread within the country. As such, China will have more skilled laborers than many other countries combined to meet OEM product demands.
Ready to Save Money On Your OEM Production? Contact Shield Works
We hope this article helped you learn whether or not outsourced OEM product manufacturing is the right decision for your company. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific set-up. But, the right arrangement can allow the company to divide and conquer in ways that are simply impossible while maintaining an in-house division.
So, how do you find the right manufacturer? Look no further than Shield Works. Our British-owned company works out of China to provide you with affordable manufacturing solutions, as well as expertise in nearly every product category. But, don’t take our word on it. Contact us today so we can walk you through what we can do for you.
What Can OEM Manufacturers Provide You With? A Closer Look
The OEM industry ships over 1.9 trillion dollars of goods every year, huge right? There are plenty of reasons this type of manufacturing is so popular.
OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are an essential component of modern industrial production. Whether you’re considering a phone, car, or even your beauty products, chances are they contain OEM products inside them.
The majority of the things we use daily come with OEM parts. However, these enterprises primarily operate in the B2B sector. This means most consumers are unaware of their importance.
OEM manufacturers may save money and time. Third-party components allow a company to focus on its primary business. They no longer need to focus on each secondary or internal item.
If you want to learn more about OEM, read on.
What is an OEM, and How Does It Work?
Initially, the term Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) referred to a firm that sold equipment to another company for resale or incorporation into their equipment for sale.
The term “OEM” currently refers to a product obtained by a firm to reuse or incorporate into another product under the reseller’s brand name.
This could mean the entire product is from an OEM manufacturer. The end business simply labeled the product with its branding. Alternatively, the OEM parts are a few components inside a product.
The OEM is the firm that creates subsystems or components that other companies utilize to make the final product. For example, not all of the features in a Lenovo laptop computer are made by Lenovo. Some components, such as the CPU or memory module, may be the work of an OEM.
OEM manufacturers are not the same as value-added resellers or VARs. A VAR is a corporation or organization that purchases an OEM component, part, or product and either enhances or adds extra details. They do so to raise its value before selling it directly to customers.
VARs and OEMs collaborate. OEMs create sub-assembly parts for VARs to sell. Some OEMs produce entire things for VAR distribution, meaning they directly influence the final result.
For example, if your product can handle medical problems, a VAR may bundle it with other goods for health providers.
Why is OEM Important?
A manufacturer or reseller can cut expenses by cooperating with an OEM. Companies are not required to construct manufacturing facilities or manage OEM manufacturing in-house.
They incorporate OEM components from China, India, or other countries with cheap manufacturing.
Typically, the cost savings pass on to the client who purchases the bundled product or system.
Managing many products, systems, and providers may be difficult for the end-user. The technical support and maintenance model expands dramatically when an organization embraces new technology. There might be dozens of OEMs and third-party companies servicing their hardware products.
Companies can decide to involve a third party to connect with and maintain relationships with OEM manufacturers. This makes the process smoother. A consolidated support and service approach helps many firms decrease OEM and vendor complexity.
How is an OEM Product Developed, Partnered With, and Resold?
Before offering a product to end-users, businesses determine the best strategy to meet the demands of their consumers.
By collaborating with an OEM manufacturer, a company may:
- Decrease manufacturing investment
- Decrease production costs
- Decrease material expenses
- Obtain knowledge in product design
- Have a shorter production life cycle.
- Still develop products employing best-of-breed components
- Focus on branding
OEMs can add everything to the product and brand it with their logo. Other OEMs merely supply components and do not sell products under their name. However, many businesses do both.
These items are often available for purchase straight from the firm as well.
The OEM Manufacturer Sector
In the hardware sector, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is a firm that creates a product for end customers, such as a PC, laptop, or printer. Original equipment makers include Apple, HP, Dell, Canon, and Brother.
On the other hand, OEM hardware refers to the components that comprise the items mentioned above. It includes CPUs, fans, motherboards, memory chips, hard drives, and other features. Companies that manufacture these components offer them to OEMs as OEM hardware.
The hardware sector of the computer business is even more well-known for OEMs. Hard drives, graphics cards, and CPUs for retail goods are built by a small number of firms, with market leaders such as Intel dominating.
For example, hard drive manufacturers provide bare hard drives for OEM customers. they also provide retail hard drives that come in a box with peripherals such as cables and installation instructions.
OEM hardware is often less expensive than retail versions. However, there are certain drawbacks. Most OEM hardware lacks customer support. It also has limited guarantee terms and is not easily integrated with other components of whatever system you’re building.
DVD drives, for example, may be missing cables or ribbons that connect to the motherboard.
It is because OEM hardware is primarily built for resellers. Those manufacturers must include:
- Warranties
- Technical assistance
- Other components when constructing complete systems
Other OEM Physical Products
There are tonnes of other industries that OEM products. These include but aren’t limited to sectors such as:
Machined goods – OEM manufacturers can often build parts to scale, these can include things like shims, nuts and bolts, rotors, and other metal or plastic components for machinery.
Auto – Car companies do not build every single part of their car in their factories. They often use OEM manufactures for computer chips, audio components, door trims, etc.
Tools – Whether we are talking household or industrial tools, OEM parts are frequently used. Motors, drill bits, and casing are all examples of how tools use off-site manufacturing.
Household products – You may be surprised to find that many of your branded household products are actually OEM or contain OEM parts. Everything from pottery, to TVs and kitchen appliances, may use this industry to drive costs down.
Beauty products – Many beauty companies do not make containers for their product, they often have them shipped in from an OEM manufacturer.
Musical instruments – Piano wires and guitar strings, tuning pegs, piano keys, and any other small part on musical gear are often OEM manufactured.
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) Provide Replacement Components and Spares
Some parts of all products are more prone to wear and tear than others. Companies frequently maintain a continual supply of vital spares on hand for their essential assets. These stockpiles get renewed regularly.
OEMs are the most outstanding providers of equipment parts and replacement components.
OEMs Provide Aftersales Assistance as Well as Maintenance and Repairs
On top of quality testing, certain OEM providers may also provide continuing maintenance services. They do so as part of an after-sales support package. When working with highly specialized equipment, the on-site maintenance personnel may lack the essential skills or instruments to perform the necessary maintenance tasks.
The maintenance contract determines the cost of these services.
Keep in mind that many OEM manufacturers do not offer all of the above services. Choosing vendors that do not provide enough documentation or a consistent supply of spares might raise your maintenance expenses and increase the risk of unplanned downtime. When selecting maintenance contractors, make sure you conduct your research.
OEM Vs. OE Parts
OE is an abbreviation for Original Equipment Manufacturing, the same as “OEM.” Both OE and OEM components are equivalent since they are manufactured following exact requirements. The only difference is that a different company manufactures the OE components.
Consider an OEM automobile component for a Mercedes made in-house by the firm. The OE variation of the same element might come from a Mercedes-licensed auto parts subcontractor, such as Hella Behr.
The genuine Mercedes logo will have the same build quality and dependability as the original product. OE spares are often less expensive than OEM spares.
OEM Vs. Aftermarket Parts
Aftermarket components are produced by firms that are not affiliated with the OEM. Various companies are active in manufacturing aftermarket replacements for OEM spares, particularly in the automobile sector.
Moreover, aftermarket components have a lot of appeal since they may be up to 60% less expensive than OEM or OE parts. However, that cost comes with significant drawbacks regarding quality and dependability.
OEM/OE spares from various vendors will provide a comparable degree of dependability. However, you do not have this warranty with aftermarket components. There are many possibilities from obscure producers with wildly varying quality.
Some high-priced aftermarket solutions provide performance and durability equivalent to OEM parts. Unfortunately, this is an exception rather than the rule. The great majority of low-cost replacements have a short guarantee and are of poor quality.
It is preferable to use OEM/OE components for essential purchases.
How are OCM and OEM Parts Similar?
OCM components are another sort of named part that appears, particularly in foodservice maintenance. Components distributed through equipment manufacturer networks and authorized service providers are generally known as OCM (Original Component Manufacturer) or direct source parts.
These are the identical parts used in the original equipment. It implies that referring to a component as an OCM part is practically synonymous with referring to it as an OEM or OE part.
OCM components are also known as original parts. In many circumstances, the term “original parts” refers to OER components (original equipment replacement parts) and may not be identical to OEM parts.
Why are OEM Products Less Costly?
OEM products are often less expensive due to economies of scale. Because the firm collaborates with others to produce huge quantities, both the price and the manufacturing time significantly decrease.
When you buy a product from an OEM, you should always double-check what you’re buying. While the goods are less expensive and provide the same features and performance, you may not receive some “extras” such as tech support, generally handled by a retail business.
What are Genuine Parts?
Genuine components are typically leftovers from previous production runs. The OEM packages and resells them as replacement components.
Genuine replacement or genuinely made components vary slightly from genuine parts. Genuine replacement parts are typically available after a product’s production run. But they are not leftover components.
They are usually the same or equivalent to the original OEM components. Usually, they’re manufactured by the same OEM parts source.
Genuine replacement parts, in many aspects, are similar to any other spare parts. They are supplied by the maker of the original finished product. Even if they are not identical, they are more likely to be of the same quality as OE components.
Benefits of Purchasing OEM Products
There are some across-the-board benefits you will have when you buy OEMs. These include:
Good Quality
An OEM product is the same as the original manufacturer’s product. Although there are less expensive alternatives, the price of the OEM product reflects its quality.
Durability
Such things are often not just of high quality but also long-lasting. For example, when purchasing a spare tire, an OEM tire is usually preferable to an aftermarket tire since one can be sure of the materials utilized in its manufacture.
Lifespan
OEM parts often last longer than aftermarket parts. They are also designed to fit with the end product from the start.
Move Forward with OEM Manufacturers
Do you need manufacturing services but don’t know where to look? Relax! Our OEM platform Shield Works is here to help you get started.
Now that you know what OEM manufacturers do, check out the rest of our blog to learn more about how we can help your business. Or, get in contact with us today to get cracking on your manufacturing needs.
OEM Manufacturing in China: More Pros for Business than Cons
For many years, China has been the manufacturing hub of the world. Last year, this production rate shrank, partially due to the impact of COVID-19. This means that China needs your business and there has never been a better time to manufacture in the country. If not you don’t know how to benefit, then we can help. Read on as we discuss why you need to outsource OEM manufacturing to China.
Lower Costs
One of the more obvious and important benefits of OEM manufacturing in China is the reduction in cost. The bottom line is that the better your product and price, the more units you will sell. Even if you are putting out a high-end brand, then you can increase your profits by lowering manufacturing costs.
Domestic manufacturing sounds good in theory. However, it has increased overheads that do not exist in China. This makes locally produced products expensive and is why manufacturing in Western countries has declined in modern times.
Of course, you will have to pay to ship the products and pay import tax. But even if the overall price works out fractionally less, you are still saving. Over time and in increased volumes, you can expect this to be a substantial amount added to your balance books.
Warranty
When OEM manufacturing in China, many manufacturers will offer you a warranty for a given period of time. This can set your mind at rest when ordering products from across the world. If a product has issues, then you can ask for a replacement or ask for a solution to the problem.
Quick Output and Turnaround
China creates goods for companies all around the world. This means they have scaled up their manufacturing to unprecedented levels. If you need a large number of goods in a short time, they will deliver them.
These factories will have produced similar items to yours before. That means they have all of the procedures in place to get things manufactured quickly and on time.
One of the arguments against this is the unfair conditions of Chinese workers. However, if you research the plant you are using you will be able to find out if workers are paid a fair amount and treated fairly. You should also take into account that the attitude to work in China is culturally different from that in the West.
Excellent Service
Manufacturing in China brings with it the exceptional service inherent in their culture. Even for smaller businesses, you will get the same treatment as a larger, global operation would.
This service also carries through to product support. When you contact an OEM manufacturer’s support team, you will get to talk with their engineers. Speaking to their technical team cuts out the middlemen, meaning you can make informed decisions and get great advice on how to improve and refine your product.
Duplication
By no means do you need to counterfeit a product. However, when manufacturing in China you can specify things you like about one item and have them replicated.
Perhaps you want to include a feature you have seen on someone else’s products or use the same dimensions. By discussing this in advance, Chinese manufacturing companies will be able to arrange this for you easily.
This is how a product evolves. By taking something great and improving, you have the opportunity to make it even better. With each iteration of the item, you can expect the quality to improve as well.
Lead Time Reduction
When you outsource OEM manufacturing to China, you have a number of options to help you reduce lead times. One way is to use automation software to manage your inventory. This will ensure you stay on top of how much stock is needed, ordering at the precise time as you begin to run low.
The other option is to order regularly and consistently. This will mean a reduction in delivery and you won’t miss out when orders run low.
Expansion and Diversification
Outsourcing allows you to add new product lines and verification to your portfolio. This has been something you have been thinking of for a while but did not think possible with your current manufacturers. All of this can be done while keeping prices low and with better production.
This can also help you engage more international markets. You can ship to areas all over the world, allowing you access to markets not possible in the past.
Low Labour Costs
Another of the main benefits of OEM manufacturing is that you gain access to all the best that the company has to offer, including their labor. This means you get expertise without having to search, recruit and train your workers. Not only are labor costs lower in China, but you will not have to pay many of the expenses related to hiring local workers.
Scam Prevention
If you deal directly with overseas manufacturers, scamming is a possibility. You may find deposits or whole budgets go missing. In addition, even delivered products could be below standard if you have never dealt with the company before.
That means it is important to get a reputable company to arrange this for you. They will have trusted manufacturers who work to the highest standards. In addition, they will have agents who can traverse language and cultural barriers for you.
OEM Manufacturing
Now you know the benefits of OEM manufacturing in China, speak with an expert. They will be able to work out the best way for you to benefit. You may be able to improve profit more than you think.
Your first stop should be Shield Works. We are a British company working in Southern China for OEM manufacturing needs. Contact us here and see what we can do for your business.