Posts Tagged ‘manufacturing companies in China’
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.
Manufacturing in China: 10 Tips to Peak Season Preparation (Part 1)
As early as October through January, this is the time of year when the majority of eCommerce brands experience a huge spike in sales. But if you’re unprepared for this sudden rise in sales and don’t plan accordingly then it will hurt your business because your customers are unable to order products or receive them quickly enough.
With peak season quickly approaching, you should prep for production and there are many points to consider when taking on the pressure of doing everything at once and all the additional cost involved with producing more goods during this time.
With so many headaches around you, it can be hard to concentrate and make the right decisions. However, don’t let this discourage you from starting. Welcome to our “Manufacturing in China: 10 Tips to Peak Season Preparation” series which list the most important and useful production tricks that will make it easier for you to get started in manufacturing without much fuss. Let’s dive into part one of this three-part series.
1. Know about the Peak Season
Most businesses experience fluctuating levels of customer traffic throughout the course of a year. The slowest time of the year is often referred to as the low season or off-season, while the busiest time of the year is typically called the high season or peak season.
Though many seasonal peaks might seem similar, they vary depending on factors that differ from industry to industry. Factors such as population density, weather patterns, and available modes of transportation can determine the amount of traffic in an industry. For example, a business that sells swimming wear has better traffic during the summer months while others work best when it’s wintertime. So, it’s important to set a timeline and schedule for the peak season that your business focuses on.
Therefore, if your team is unaware of the span and the length of peak seasons, then your company is likely rising to incur unnecessary expenses throughout the year. And if your peak season lasts much longer than expected, there may not be enough employees or products available to meet all the demand coming from potential customers during this time.
In light of this, your company should always analyze the number of major holiday promotions, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, thanksgiving weekend, and Christmas. It may still be difficult to pin down the span of peak season for all industries but taking precautions, like reading some recent sales data, can help you diminish the consequences.
2. Forecast Demand
With the exponential growth of eCommerce around the world, more and more people are willing to make a purchase online. If you have both physical locations and an eCommerce store, it becomes readily apparent that digital traffic has increased even more than before and will continue to grow in popularity.
Therefore, you can forecast production demand for your store before peak season based on the different traffic sources.
Demand forecasting is one of the most crucial tools for brands to use in determining the best possible supply rates and building up adequate resources. This way, they can minimize their risks and costs. Furthermore, it enables collaboration between the outbound and inbound processes of the company, such as procurement, production, sales, and marketing. By predicting future demand, you can optimize current inventory levels by monitoring which products sell faster than others and predict when certain stocks will need to be replenished.
To forecast your production needs before peak seasons, one of the best ways is by staying on top of fashion trends. Following some influencers in your niche on TikTok and Instagram and leveraging the right hashtags can help learn about what your target customers are interested in currently and also gives you an idea of who you could be competing with. Then, you will have a better sense of what’s going to sell and be able to plan accordingly. It also means that you can monitor your inventory levels, so you will know ahead of time if something gets discontinued. This way, you won’t run out of your most popular items when the peak season comes.
3. Adjust Inventory
Nothing is more frustrating than running out of the most popular item in your store and turning down a potential customer because you don’t have enough inventory throughout the peak season.
To make sure that everyone who enters your store has a positive shopping experience, one of the most important parts is to make sure that your store is fully stocked and that you have plenty of your bestsellers readily available so that there will never be a need for backorders.
Inventory management is an essential part of ensuring a business’s profitability. Some businesses have too little inventory, unable to meet customers’ expectations by supplying enough available products, which often drives customers away to another brand or alternative items. However, excess inventory not only ties up valuable cash flow, but also carries the risk of damage and costs more to store and track.
So, it becomes important to know when to replenish stocks in what quantities, and at what price. If this happens too often or too late, then your margins will suffer. It is recommended that you take note of what sells the best and make sure you will have enough of those items available during the peak seasons, otherwise you risk losing out on both profits and potential customer base.
Takeaway
Peak seasons will be much different in the near future because of recent international dealings. In order to stay competitive, you need to prepare for these sudden changes and disruptions all the time.
If you’re looking for a reliable and professional company that can help with your production project before peak seasons, look no further than Shield Works Precision Manufacturing in China. There is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” approach to meet everyone’s needs, we can offer everything you need to make the most of today’s globalized marketplace. From OEM manufacturing to assembly to warehousing, you can find it all here. Start your journey by reaching out today for more information.
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!
The Do’s and Don’ts of Product Manufacturing
Every year, about 30,000 new products appear in the market. Not all these new products succeed. Many of them fail because their manufacturing processes have flaws.
In this article, we will cover the dos and don’ts of product manufacturing. These tips can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your product meets your specifications. Keep reading to get the details.
Do Confirm if Global Sourcing Is Right for You
Before choosing a manufacturing partner, learn how global sourcing works so you can make an informed decision.
The biggest pro of global sourcing is that it saves you time and money. Instead of having to build up your production facilities from scratch, you can use existing companies. They will already have all the necessary equipment for manufacturing your product.
There’s also a downside to global sourcing. You’ll have less control over the quality of your product.
Because foreign manufacturers are far away, you won’t be able to supervise the manufacturing process. This can lead to expensive mistakes.
Consider the benefits and disadvantages of global sourcing before you decide to go this route. If you’re still unsure, consider using a contract manufacturer instead.
Don’t Forget to Consult Your Team
Before you commit to a manufacturer, it’s important to speak with your team. This includes your designer and any other stakeholders. You should also speak with your business partner to make sure they’re on board with the decision as well.
If you’re working with a designer who has experience in global sourcing, they’ll be able to give you advice on which manufacturers are the best fit for your brand.
You should also consider bringing in a consultant to help you make this decision. A consultant will provide an objective opinion. They can advise you on the best course of action.
Do the Research on the Company You Plan to Work With
Before you start any work with your product partner, make sure they’re a good fit for you. Research the company, its past products, and any future developments they’re planning.
Check out their website, review their services, and look for any reviews on social media sites. Find out if the manufacturer has experience working with customers in your industry. This is especially important if you’re looking for a manufacturer of niche products.
If you can’t find anything that makes them stand out from their competition, consider working with someone else.
Do Have Someone Visit a Potential Partner
Visiting a potential partner is a great way to get a feel for their operation. You also get to scan their facilities. It’ll be easy to see if they have the equipment you need.
There’s also a chance for you to build a face-to-face relationship with the team you’ll be working with. A good rapport with your manufacturer will maximize your chances of receiving first-rate items.
Visiting also allows you to get a sense of their communication skills. Some countries, like China, still keep their travel restrictions. If you can’t visit them in person, call them on the phone, or have a 3rd-party to check out for you.
Do Have an Audit Process
You should have an audit process in place to ensure quality. You can do this by having a third-party audit your product, or you can do it yourself. Some manufacturers will also conduct audits on their own.
The audit should be standardized and repeatable. This will ensure consistency between audits and make it easier to identify issues.
Don’t Assume That You Know Everything About Manufacturing
It’s easy to become overconfident when you think you know everything about your product. The manufacturer has a better idea of what goes into making your product than you would.
They’ll know how many steps are involved, how long each step takes, and how much labor is required. You may think the finished product should look a certain way, but it might not be as simple as that.
The manufacturer will have an opinion on the best way to make your product. It’s important that you listen to them. If they suggest a change that improves quality or efficiency, consider implementing it.
Do Know Who Owns the Intellectual Property Rights
When manufacturing products overseas, it’s important that you own the intellectual property rights. You can prevent others from copying your design and selling it themselves.
Before manufacturing your product, register your IP with a patent office. This will give you legal protection against imitators who try to sell a copycat version of what you’re making.
Don’t Sign a Contract Without Reading It
You should always get a contract before working with a manufacturer. The contract will outline the responsibilities of both parties and specify important details, like payment terms, for example.
It’s important to read the contract carefully. Make sure it includes all of your specifications and requirements, as well as any disclaimers or exclusions.
Do Double Your Budget
If you’re working with manufacturers overseas, the cost of shipping your products can add up quickly. You’ll have to factor this into your budget.
The best way to lower shipping fees is by having everything manufactured, stored, and shipped from one place. Your manufacturer would have to provide warehousing services for this to be possible.
Don’t Base Your Decision on Price Alone
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding a manufacturer that will make your product at a cheaper rate than you expected. However, what’s more important is whether they can meet your quality requirements.
Price is always relative. If you find a manufacturer that charges more than your initial budget, think about whether their quality of work is worth the additional cost.
Do Factor in Delays
It’s important to remember that delays are inevitable when shipping products. Weather, holidays, and weekends can all contribute to the delay of your product delivery. You should factor these delays into your timeline so that you don’t miss any of your deadlines.
Don’t Forget to Have a Contingency Plan
No matter how thorough your research and planning are, there are always going to be bumps in the road when working with a manufacturing company. You need to prepare yourself for these potential scenarios:
- The quality of your product doesn’t meet your expectations
- Your manufacturer doesn’t deliver on time
- Prices increase
- Raw materials are low in supply
You will need to have a contingency plan in place so that you can mitigate these problems. For example, if your manufacturer is going to be late on delivery, find a carrier. This will ensure that your product gets to its destination on time.
Do Understand Quality Assurance Procedures
You’ll want to make sure that your manufacturer can provide reliable documentation on their quality control processes. There should be clear documentation of the process that your product goes through, including test results and inspection reports. You should also get a sample of your product from the manufacturer to make sure that they’re meeting your quality standards.
Do Get Your Product Tested
You should have your product tested and certified by a third party before it leaves the factory. This will ensure that your product meets international standards and is safe for use.
Also, test the product yourself before it goes on the market. You don’t want to find out later that your product is defective or dangerous. By testing it yourself, you can catch these issues before they become a problem for consumers.
Don’t Forget to Check the Manufacturer’s Experience
Always review the experience level of your manufacturer. If they have a new factory, they might not have the resources to meet your quality requirements. Consider their reputation and the size of their company before making a decision.
Do Choose a Country With Low Labor Costs
As you look at countries where your product will be manufactured, it’s important to choose one that offers low labor costs. This can save you a lot of money.
Choosing China for product development is often a good choice for small and large orders. They have some of the lowest labor costs in the world but also maintain high levels of quality control.
Don’t Pick a Manufacturer Who Doesn’t Speak Your Language
Communication is one of the most important components of a successful business. If you can’t communicate with your manufacturer, you’re going to have a hard time building and maintaining trust with them. You want your expectations to be received and understood in a way that works for both parties.
This doesn’t mean that the manufacturer has to be a native English speaker. They just need to communicate effectively in your language.
If you’re working with someone who doesn’t speak your native tongue, choose a manufacturer who works with translators and interpreters. These roles can help bridge the communications gap between you and your product partner.
Do Check Their Certifications
Make sure that the manufacturer you hire is certified in the manufacturing process. This includes credentials from organizations, such as ISO certifications. These organizations ensure that your product is manufactured safely and reliably.
This is important for your company’s reputation and your customers’ safety.
Don’t Ignore the Importance of Safety
You may want a price break, but don’t cut corners on safety. This means ensuring that your product partner has quality control systems in place for their employees. This includes making sure that their facilities are clean and free of contaminants.
You also want to make sure that their employees have the proper training for the equipment they’ll be using to make your products.
Do Calculate the Production Cost per Item
The cost per item will depend on the number of items produced. You can calculate it by dividing the total production cost by the number of items produced.
For example, suppose you manufacture 100 units for a production cost of $1,000. If you divide this $1,000 by 100, then you get a total cost per unit of $10.
You can then compare this number with the price you want to charge for your product. If it’s too high, then you may need to cut back on some of your production costs or look into finding a cheaper manufacturer.
Don’t Neglect to Get a Prototype Assembly
A prototype offers many benefits. It will help you get a better understanding of your product and identify any potential issues. Once you find these problems, you can correct them before they become too costly to fix later.
You should also order a prototype so you can test your product. The more time spent testing the product in advance, the fewer problems there are likely going to be when it comes time for mass production.
Do Get a Non-Disclosure Agreement
A non-disclosure agreement is a legal contract that prevents any parties involved in your project from disclosing certain information about the project. This can include anything from product plans to pricing and marketing strategies.
Non-disclosure agreements ensure confidentiality and safety. Team members can’t release sensitive information to others who might wish to use it against you.
Don’t Manufacture Several New Products at Once
When you’re manufacturing a new product, it can be tempting to think about creating other items and getting them on store shelves as well. This is a mistake. Manufacturing multiple products at once will only slow down your production schedule.
Focus on perfecting one product at a time until it’s ready for the market. That way, you can stick to your timeline and keep your costs down.
Partner With a Forward-Thinking Product Manufacturing Company
The process of product manufacturing can be quite complex, so it’s essential to partner with the right company. Use an experienced manufacturer that can help you with product design, prototyping and testing, as well as mass production.
Shipping and logistics are also important aspects of production. Work with a company that can handle all of your shipping needs.
Shield Works Precision Manufacturing Co. can help you bring your product to life. We’re a full-service contract manufacturer in China that also offers warehousing and shipping. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
Finding a Suitable Manufacturing Partner in China: How to Make an Inquiry?
To make an inquiry about what your custom manufacturing partner can do for you, you will need to know how to approach them and how much it’s going to cost you. As an international importer, you don’t want to pay any more than necessary, and that means asking the right questions and working with someone who can give you quality products at an affordable price.
To help, we’ve compiled some tips on starting that conversation with your manufacturing partner in China so that you can find what you’re looking for while avoiding costly mistakes.
What is a Professional Inquiry Like?
A professional inquiry is a request for information. When you need to learn about the supplier’s catalog, pricing, and payment terms or ask for product samples, you will need one. It enables your team to review your ideas and needs.
How to Make a Professional Inquiry?
Rather than a one-time contact, making an inquiry should be an ongoing process. By following these steps, you will be able to think more thoroughly and systematically about how best to inquire.
Step 1: Get in Touch with Potential Supplies
The first step to filtering some reliable suppliers is knowing their backgrounds to evaluate if they fit your needs. For example:
- Background and experience
- Scale
- Production Capacity
- Product Catalog
- Main Market
It is necessary to determine what the supplier focuses on. A good way of assessing this is by checking whether they have related production lines. For example, if you need to make PCB products, you should find those who have PCB production lines in their facilities. Otherwise, be wary of suppliers who are pretending to be factories but are trading companies or there are risks involved.
Also, it may be beneficial for you to make a decision by contacting around 10 potential suppliers from the start for more information comparisons.
To successfully receive responses from suppliers, it’s also important to mention both who you are and what product/service you need for your business or project. If not, most of them will not respond.
Step 2: Request Quotations Clearing
People in business are under pressure, and so the quicker you can get to the point and more specific you can be, the more likely you are to receive a reply. In this case, before requesting quotes from potential suppliers, you need to prepare a production proposal. It doesn’t have to be the same as what will end up being produced or shipped, but it does provide an important reference point for evaluating rates.
Another reason for quoting based on your production plan is that almost every manufacturing company needs to know your general production plan, including units, materials, and deadlines so they can provide detailed pricing, and nothing will be confusing or misunderstood.
Keep in mind that using a cookie-cutter template taken from a website may not accurately convey the message you want. So, spend some time creating tailored business inquiries so you can get what you need in a short time. For example, if you need to know the total costs for completing your products, it’s important to specify which type of pricing. Instead of simply asking about the general prices, request quotations in FOB (free on board) price that is not a pure product price but includes shipping fees coming off the factory floor to the harbor and other related costs.
Step 3: Be in Touch with Them Briefly
Before moving on, you can remove some manufacturers from your list that don’t meet your standards and reply accordingly.
After receiving quotations, reach out to them directly over the phone (either online or by phone) to discuss how they can handle your project as well as share other pertinent details.
Sending an email is more traditional but calling will leave a lasting impression to show that you didn’t indiscriminately send out Requests for Quotations (RFQs) to all the suppliers on your list. This means they are likely to respond faster and think highly of your project. It’s also beneficial because it shows your sincerity and interest in partnering with them, which makes the process easier for both parties and can be a good way to establish friendly relations with your potential suppliers.
Moreover, don’t forget to ask them to send over some on-site pictures or videos since you are not available to pay a visit to their factories currently. If you have any questions, try to approach a factory audit service company once you have narrowed your search down to 1 or 2 candidates.
Step 4: Negotiate Based on Value, Not Cost
Cost is often one of the priorities that comes up when finalizing a project. It’s common for factories to ask overseas buyers for their budgets at the beginning of their negotiation process. However, many foreign buyers would prefer not to disclose their budget because they want the factory to understand that they are looking for value and quality, not just a cheap price.
If you are asked about your budget, it’s a good idea to be honest and emphasize that you are looking for long-term partnerships where quality and service are more of the priorities, which helps build trust and ensure that both parties are on the same page from the start.
When finalizing the supplier for your company, there are many different factors to take into account, such as whether or not they have the capacity to deliver quality products, outstanding communication skills, and exceptional customer service. In addition, it’s important to find suppliers that can protect your IP rights, so you don’t compromise any of your work-in-progress ideas and designs.
Don’t forget, the price and the quality are inexorably linked in China. Negotiating a low price with any supplier usually means they will just shrug it off and say ‘sure’ and then go out of their way to find ways to give you the cheapest possible products. A universal rule of life is that everything gets what it pays for. Keep in mind that you make this decision based on what will help your company succeed in the long run.
Step 5: Choose the Most Professional Supplier
In the last step, it’s time to give more information about your product and your quality requirements to the most interesting candidates. Don’t hesitate to give them your target price if it is very different from what they offer you. Ask them to justify their price level precisely.
As a buyer, it is imperative that you select the most professional supplier. This will allow for your orders to be processed with the utmost urgency and care. Luckily, there are many ways for you to determine who is the best choice for you. If you’re looking for a company that has all your needs covered, reach out today for more information and see how we will be able to make them worth every penny!
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!
Understanding the Benefits of OEM
Are you wondering what an OEM is, and how it can help your business production? You’re not alone. Many people are unaware of the benefits of Original Equipment Manufacturer services.
In essence, an OEM is a company that manufactures products for other companies.
When you work with an OEM, you can outsource the entire manufacturing process, from design to delivery. This allows you to focus on your core business while still producing high-quality products.
As the world of manufacturing continues to grow and evolve, more businesses are turning to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to help them with their production needs.
Well, there are many benefits to working with an OEM, so read on to start understanding the benefits of OEM for your business.
Access to Expert Knowledge and Experience
Working with an OEM can provide considerable advantages when launching or improving a product. The most significant benefit is access to the OEM’s wealth of knowledge and experience.
Their team will have an intimate understanding of every aspect of product design and manufacturing and will be able to offer support and guidance at every stage of the process.
This can be invaluable for businesses that are new to the industry, or who are looking to make significant improvements to their products.
In addition, partnering with an OEM can help ensure a high-quality control level, as they will have established methods and procedures to ensure that all products meet strict standards.
Ultimately, working with an OEM can be the difference between launching a successful outcome and seeing it fail miserably.
Cost Savings
Working with OEM manufacturers in China can save you money in the long run for a number of reasons. They are able to source the best materials and components at the most competitive prices.
In addition, they can help streamline your production process so that it is more efficient and cost-effective. OEMs also have a wealth of experience and knowledge that can be invaluable in helping you to avoid costly mistakes.
As a result, working with a China assembly service can help you to save money and improve the quality of your products.
Flexibility
As anyone who has ever worked with a large company knows, it can be difficult to get them to make even small changes to your order. They often have inflexible policies and procedures that make it hard to get things done.
That’s why working with an OEM can be such a breath of fresh air. They understand that every business is different and that each has its own unique needs.
So they’re willing to work with you to create a solution that is tailored specifically to your needs. This can be a huge benefit if you have a complex production process or if you need to make last-minute changes to your order.
You’ll never have to worry about being locked into contract manufacturing or having to follow inflexible rules. With an OEM, you’ll always be able to get the flexible solution you need.
With all of this in mind, why on earth would you try to go it alone?
Scale
One of the advantages of working with an OEM is their ability to scale up or down according to your needs. This means they can do small orders for start-ups and large orders for established businesses.
This gives you the ability to grow your business without worrying if your OEM partner can keep up. Another advantage of working with an OEM is that they usually have a lot of experience in the industry.
They know the ins and outs of mass production, which means they can help you troubleshoot any problems that might arise during the manufacturing process and find solutions to the issues faced.
And because they’re experienced, they can usually offer advice on how to improve your product assembly from top to bottom.
Finally, working with an OEM can save you money because they often have relationships with suppliers and can get discounts that you wouldn’t be able to get on your own.
So if you’re looking for a manufacturing partner that offers a China product assembly service, an OEM is a good option to consider for your long-term manufacturing success.
Time Savings
Time is one of the most precious commodities for any business owner. There are only so many hours in the day, and often it feels like there is more work to be done than there is time to do it.
This is where working with OEM manufacturing can be a real lifesaver. By entrusting them with the production process, you free up your own time to focus on other areas of your business.
This can be a huge advantage, especially for small businesses that may not have the staff or resources to handle all aspects of production internally.
In addition, because OEMs are experts in their field, they can often complete the work more quickly and efficiently than if you were to try to do it yourself. This also leaves you free to do what you do best and grow the business.
This can save you even more time in the long run. Ultimately, working with an OEM can help you to make the most of your time and resources, allowing you to focus on what you do best.
Risk Reduction
When you partner with an OEM, you can also reduce the risk involved in bringing a new product to market. That’s because they have extensive experience in the design and manufacturing process.
They will be able to identify potential problems early on and find solutions before they become major issues. This can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches down the road.
For example, if there are issues with the design of your product, they will be able to work with you to find a solution that meets your needs while also ensuring that the final product is of high quality.
In addition, because OEMs have established relationships with suppliers, they will be able to get you the best possible price for your components. This can help to reduce your overall costs and improve your margins.
Finally, by working with an OEM, you will have access to their customer service and technical support teams. This can be extremely helpful if you run into any problems after your product has been launched.
In short, partnering with an OEM can help you to avoid many of the risks associated with bringing a new product to market.
Improved Quality Control
Quality control is essential for any business that manufactures products. Defects or subpar products can lead to customer dissatisfaction and even legal problems.
When you work with an experienced Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), they can help you develop a quality control system that will ensure that your products meet your standards before they leave the factory.
Because OEMs are experts in manufacturing, they know all the ins and outs of the production process and can identify potential issues that could lead to defects or subpar products.
Having a strong quality control system in place can help you avoid costly problems down the road. Working with an OEM from the start can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction
Any business owner knows that customer satisfaction is essential for long-term success. After all, happy customers are more likely to come back and do repeat business.
Because OEMs are focused on quality control, partnering with one can help you ensure that your products meet or exceed your customers’ expectations. As a result, you may see an improvement in customer satisfaction levels over time.
And that, in turn, could lead to more repeat business and higher levels of customer loyalty. So if you’re looking for ways to enhance customer satisfaction, partnering with an OEM may be the way to go.
Environmentally Friendly
As businesses increasingly look for ways to reduce their environmental impact, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have become an increasingly popular option.
OEMs are typically more environmentally friendly than other businesses due to their use of fewer resources and production of less waste. In addition, OEMs typically have a lower carbon footprint than other businesses.
As a result, choosing an OEM can be a great way for businesses to reduce their environmental impact.
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing an OEM, but the potential environmental benefits should definitely be taken into account.
Community Involvement
In addition, OEMs often have a strong presence in their local communities. This can benefit your business in a number of ways, such as by providing you with a good reputation, access to a skilled workforce, and networking opportunities.
OEMs are an important part of the global economy, and they play a vital role in many industries, including automotive, computing, and electronics. There are many benefits to working with an OEM.
These include such things as access to skilled labor, economies of scale, and R&D resources. In addition, OEMs often have a strong presence in their local communities. This can benefit your business in a number of ways.
For example, community involvement can provide you with a good reputation. If you’re associated with a well-respected company, it can rub off on you positively.
In addition, community involvement can give you access to a skilled workforce. Local talent is always in demand, and by working with an OEM you may have first dibs on the best candidates.
Finally, networking opportunities abound when you’re involved in the community. You’ll meet new people and build relationships that can be beneficial to your business.
Overall, there are many advantages to working with an OEM. When choosing an OEM partner, be sure to consider their level of community involvement. It can make a big difference for your business.
Economic Benefits
In these difficult economic times, it’s more important than ever to support businesses in our community. This is another benefit of partnering with an OEM partner.
When you partner with an OEM, you’re not only getting high-quality products and services, but you’re also helping to create jobs and stimulating the local economy.
This can have a positive ripple effect on the whole community, making it more attractive to other businesses.
So when you’re looking for a partner to help meet your needs, remember the importance of supporting your local economy. Partnering with an OEM is a win-win for everyone involved.
What Are the Different Types of OEM Agreements?
There are two types of OEM agreements: exclusive and non-exclusive.
An exclusive agreement means that the OEM is the only supplier for the specific product or component being manufactured. This type of agreement gives the OEM more control over quality and production, but it also limits your options if you want to switch suppliers in the future.
A non-exclusive agreement, on the other hand, allows you to work with multiple OEMs simultaneously. This gives you more flexibility, but it also means that you’ll have to manage multiple relationships.
When choosing an OEM partner, it’s important to consider your long-term needs and objectives. If you anticipate needing a lot of flexibility in the future, a non-exclusive agreement may be the best option.
If you want to ensure a high level of quality control, an exclusive agreement may be the way to go. But contact us if you need more help.
Whatever type of agreement you choose, make sure that you have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions before signing on the dotted line.
Ready to Use an Original Equipment Manufacturer?
When it comes to your business, you always want what’s best for production. Efficiency and quality are important, which is why working with an original equipment manufacturer can be extremely beneficial.
They have the experience and understanding of your product to help improve manufacturing. Not only will they provide high-quality parts, but they can also save you time and money in the long run.
For more on this topic and others like it, be sure to check out our blog!
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!
Contract Manufacturing in China: How to Get Started
China manufacturing. It is one of the most well-known industries in the country, and it has a strong global presence.
It is known as a leader in the manufacturing industry because China commands 28% of the global manufacturing industry. For perspective, the United States is second place on that list at just over 16%.
With the country having such a strong manufacturing presence, you may be tempted to do business over there. If you have this interest, you have to look into contract manufacturers.
What do you need to know about contract manufacturing? What do you need to get started?
This is your guide.
Remember Your Intellectual Property
You have to remember that when you are doing business in China, there are different intellectual property laws than in your home country. If you are coming from the United States, you need to be aware that there is much less protection for intellectual property in China than there is back home.
So, if you have a product where success relies on you being the exclusive provider of it, you need to do your homework about intellectual property laws in China before drawing up a contract. Make sure you go through all of the proper channels and have all of the paperwork to protect your intellectual property as much as possible there.
Set Quality Requirements
The next thing that you have to do is make sure you set up quality requirements in your contract. This can help protect you from a business that may not be known to operate with the highest standards.
Putting your standards and requirements in writing strengthens your position and gives you a higher chance of getting quality results. The reason for this is with having this in writing; you have something to fall back on if something goes wrong along the way.
Whereas if the lack of quality comes up unexpectedly, you may be stuck dealing with it if you signed the wrong type of contract with this company. Make sure you spell this out and figure out what quality requirements you want before agreeing to do business with a company.
Be Very Detailed
When it comes to contracts, in general, you want to have as many details listed as possible. Manufacturing in China is no different.
A contract helps make clear what your standards are, what your expectations are, and what you are expecting a manufacturer to provide. For example, if you have a quota for how many items need to be shipped every week for one product, you should put that in your contract.
What standards need to be put in place? How much money are you going to pay the manufacturer? How are you determining that price? What is the size and color of the product requirement?
These are things that you need to think about in terms of details in a contract. You may also want to consider how long you want this contract to last and if you want to be exclusive with this manufacturer.
If you do, then that can have an influence on what the contract terms are and how much you are going to agree to give a manufacturer.
Go Over Pricing
Along with the above, you need to go over the pricing and payment procedures with your manufacturer. It is a detail of the contract, but it is arguably the most important detail.
The reason is that having the pricing and payment structures laid out could be the difference as to whether your business survives or not. This is because if there is a misunderstanding, you may not have the funds to pay for litigation or even to pay what you owe.
Go over this carefully and make sure you understand exactly how much you have to pay and what exactly you are getting in return for this payment.
Prepare for Disputes
Going off of the above, the best way to put out a potential fire is to prepare for one that might come up. This includes disputes because it is likely that you may have at least a minor one with the manufacturer that you choose to do business with.
Try not to worry too much because this is a normal thing to go through. About 85% of people in business experience a conflict at one point or another.
The best way that you can handle this is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Essentially, be aware of any possible problems in the future and come up with plans to resolve them.
Find a Reliable Manufacturer
Finally, you are going to need to have a reliable manufacturer by your side. It is best to have someone that has a good reputation in the industry and someone that has taken good care of colleagues. If you do not know anybody like this, perhaps check reviews and testimonials.
Having a good manufacturer can save you time and money, along with any potential business headaches in the future.
Get Started With Contract Manufacturing
These are some of the key things that you need to know when it comes to contract manufacturing. Two of the most important things that you need to make clear are the pricing and payment of services, along with the quality you expect. In general, it is best to have all details covered with a reliable manufacturer.
Are you ready to get started? Message us today to take the leap.