Posts Tagged ‘manufacturing companies in China’
How to Work Successfully with a Product Development Company in China
Whether you’re outsourcing manufacturing or just having product development done, working with a product development company in China may be the best thing you can do for your company. It’s not always easy to work with these companies and get what you want, but by following these tips, you can make sure you have the best experience possible when working with a product development company in China.
Researching if a Chinese company is right for you
Do your research to make sure the company is reputable and has a good track record. Request referrals from other clients, read reviews, and look for third-party verification on their website or social media pages.
If you’re still not sure, contact your potential manufacturer directly via email or phone to ask them questions about their manufacturing process, products they’ve made before, turnaround time, etc. Make sure you’re clear on what you want upfront so there are no surprises later. Make sure you have a clear idea of how much it will cost and how long it will take to get the product manufactured once all details have been finalized.
Finding the right supplier
There are many things to consider when looking for a supplier, such as cost, quality, turnaround time, and communication. Quality is always the most important consideration but you will have to weigh that against your budget and desired timeline. For example, if you’re going for high-quality but don’t want it delivered quickly, you’ll need to find someone who specializes in producing slow-moving items or can give you a discount on the price.
A product development company with a widespread network of suppliers in China can help you a lot as they provide a vast pool of options for you. This can save you time and money, as you’re likely to find several good suppliers from one firm.
Use an Online Translation Tool
If you’re looking to develop a product with a company based in China, it’s important to establish clear communication from the start. Using an online translation tool can help bridge the language barrier and ensure that both parties are on the same page. You should find a reliable translation software provider such as Google Translate or ICanLocalize before your project starts.
Always be sure to get in touch with your partner before starting work on your project. Communication is key to everything, and make sure you language is simple to understand. Do not assume that the partners will understand what 5×5 means when used in reference to size, or finish by Labor Day, as the Chinese Labor Day falls on May 1, when referencing deadlines. Be specific when discussing measurements and timelines so there is no confusion.
Use Templates as a Starting Point
When you are ready to start working with a product development company in China, it is important to have a clear idea of what you want your product to be. Templates can be a great starting point for this process. However, be sure to communicate your vision clearly to the company you are working with.
It may also be helpful to do some research about popular products on the market and create images or sketches based on these ideas. For example, if you want a toy that will help teach toddlers how to count and learn colors, you could use pictures of other toys that teach those skills as a template.
Ask For Samples
Always ask for samples of their previous work. This will give you an idea of their quality and craftsmanship. If possible, try to have someone visit their facilities, given the current travel restrictions, and meet with their team in person. This will help you get a better sense of who you’ll be working with and how they operate.
It’s important to find the right balance between trusting your instincts and choosing the company that checks all your boxes when it comes to your budget, timing, quality standards and expertise.
Document Everything
When working with a product development company in China, be sure to document everything. This includes contracts, communication, and any other important details. If god forbid, when it comes time for you to file a complaint or lawsuit against the manufacturer, you will have everything on hand for the process.
It is also important to remember that often times there are discrepancies between what was agreed upon and what was actually delivered. It is best to document as much as possible so that you can catch these discrepancies early before they escalate into an issue.
Deal With Design Changes at Scale
Changes are common in a design process. They may be minor, such as changing the color or size. Or they can be major, such as changing materials or components and all that entails. However, it is important to note that there are two types of changes: those that can easily be made at scale and those that cannot. The latter must always be done by hand.
When working with a product development company in China, make sure you specify which type of change you want done so the designer will know what to do! If your project requires many changes, have your Chinese manufacturer provide guidance on how to handle them.
Working with a product development company in China is not something to take lightly, but the rewards can be great if you do your research. That takes an experienced product development company for you to achieve, and Shield Works is one with 17 years of experience in this area. Reach out to us if you’d like to know more!
4 Things You Must Know about IP Protection in China If You’re Manufacturing There
China manufacturing has become much more popular in recent years, with the China being known as the ‘world’s factory’. However, while China manufacturing offers many benefits, it also comes with its own unique set of challenges, including intellectual property protection issues. For those considering manufacturing in China, here are four things you must know about IP protection in China if you’re manufacturing there to help you avoid potential legal issues down the road.
It’s Different When You Are Not From There
In any country, protecting your intellectual property (IPR) is difficult. It becomes even more complicated when you are dealing with a foreign jurisdiction like China, which has its own set of laws and customs that differ from your own. While no one wants to consider they might ever need to use IP protection methods, they can be an asset if you are faced with problems.
Before you seek legal help or pursue someone for violating your IP rights, remember that many IP cases fail because companies make basic mistakes; before taking action, it pays to know some of them. For example: Remember that you are a foreigner – Chinese laws should protect you against infringement, but don’t assume they will.
Having a backup plan is important because there is always a possibility that law enforcement may not assist you. Keep in mind who owns what – In China, registered trademarks are owned by the registrant rather than being assigned based on where products are sold. Due to this rule, you could lose ownership over your trademark simply by failing to register it properly. In addition to using multiple locations for manufacturing facilities and offices, Chinese businesses tend to utilize multiple forms of IP protection, such as patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
Trademark Registration in China
In order to fully protect your intellectual property (IP) rights, you must apply for trademark protection in China. There are three ways to do so: chinese national or regional trademark offices can be contacted directly, through a representative, an agent, or through a representative of an agent.
Direct registration is cheapest and fastest. If you don’t speak Chinese fluently, you will likely want to use an agent rather than trying to do this on your own. The best agents have years of experience filing trademarks in China and can walk you through the process.
Make sure your trademark is maintained by filing periodic renewal applications before its expiration. If you fail to renew, you risk losing all legal protections conferred by registration-including the right to prevent others from registering a similar mark. It is called trademark squatting when someone registers a trademark similar to yours after yours has expired. This process occurs frequently and is called trademark squatting.
Generally, copyright protection is achieved through registration with CIPA (China Intellectual Property Office). This ensures your work is protected legally.
Following completion of examination and approval procedures, trademarks can be registered with SAIC (State Administration for Industry & Commerce) or SIPO (State Intellectual Property Office). In addition to providing exclusive rights for your trademark, it also allows you to contest its use in court if necessary. If you wish to register a trademark, the most important thing is to make sure it hasn’t been registered by another party first; otherwise, you may face difficulties if you want to register it at a later date.
Brand Protection
When it comes to your creations, if you haven’t registered them through patent or copyright registration with qualified departments, you cannot take advantage of their legal protection. For instance, when developing something new, ensure it is registered intellectual property before distributing it to others for commercialization. This will allow you to lay the groundwork for future protection of your rights and interests.
Make sure you include an effective copyright notice on all of your original works. Copyright is defined as a form of personal ownership that protects original works of authorship including literary, architectural and artistic works from being used by others without permission or compensation.
What To Do with An IPR Dispute
You should definitely keep your records – things like your business contracts, licenses, registrations, licenses, licenses, you name it. You don’t want to destroy any records!
Check with a local attorney before signing agreements like these because they often have clauses that should be looked at beforehand. The clauses listed in this section may jeopardize Intellectual Property Rights in China.
When a dispute does arise, you can find a way to solve it by going to the police or foreign courts, among other choices. They are many instances, like going before the entire commission of Beijing Arbitration and seeking help from other departments such as SIPO and the National Copyright Administration.
Alternately, many foreign companies can solve their problems by going to the local technology offices for consultation at any time. One solution you may turn to after you consult with an infringer and find that it refuses to respond to the consultation is to take the infringer to court by yourself or to apply for help from SIPO. The most important thing is to be prepared with IPR protection before bringing the infringement to an end in China.
It’s better to prepare for the worst-case scenario, like if you found a company with a safe production facility and its own IP protection zone. Shield Works is just such a company. Different types of IP protection services are available, such as a partnership with a leading IP industry expert in China. If you want more information, you can always get in touch with us!
Manufacturing Contracts: Everything You Need to Know
The global contract manufacturing market will be worth over $2.7 trillion by 2023. Contract manufacturing is a significant part of the economy and drives business growth.
And for a good reason. Contract manufacturing is beneficial to companies hiring a contractor. They can use the latest technology and machinery, resources, and expert knowledge.
With so much at stake, manufacturing contracts include more than an agreement to work together. Manufacturing contracts are incredibly specific and cover a vast range of terms.
Before signing on the dotted line, here’s everything you need to know about manufacturing contracts.
What Is A Manufacturing Contract?
Many businesses don’t have the facilities or funding to manufacture their own products. Instead, they work with a dedicated manufacturing company that can produce the product for the company to sell.
If a company cannot or doesn’t want to make its own product, it will sign a manufacturing contract. Manufacturing contracts cover everything, from construction to children’s toys and military equipment. Even some perishable goods like food fall under manufacturing contracts.
A manufacturing contract is an agreement between the company that makes the items and the company that sells them. The contract covers every aspect of the manufacturing process, including:
- Sourcing raw material
- Delivery dates
- Quality
- Quantity
- Price and payment
- Transportation
- Liabilities and legal responsibilities
- Ownership and Intellectual property rights
- Testing and Certification requirements
The manufacturing contracts let both parties know what is expected of them. Eventually, working with a production partner will come to an end.
A manufacturing should include information about how and when the contract will end. This may include information on breach of contract, insolvency, and conflict of interest.
Types of Manufacturing Contracts
In general, manufacturing contracts are relatively straightforward. There are several different types of manufacturing contracts. Each type makes allowances for specific partnerships and agreements.
These are the most common types of manufacturing contracts.
Private Label Manufacturing
Private label manufacturing is the most common type of manufacturing contract. This agreement involves a manufacturer making a product to particular specifications. The design, sales, and marketing are the responsibility of the business. The manufacturer does not make decisions.
This is the ideal contract for businesses with exact specifications that don’t want to deal with the effort of manufacturing.
End-To-End Manufacturing
Also known as full-scale production, this is similar to private label manufacturing. End-to-end manufacturing means the manufacturer provides has input into the design and materials. For example, a company might enter an end-to-end contract for a manufacturer to make a specific industrial machine. The manufacturer will then take responsibility for the exact design, process, and materials.
The benefit of this type of contract is that the manufacturer can save money by designing a cost-effective operation. For companies that want an affordable product without hassle, this contract is ideal.
Individual Component Manufacturing
Some manufacturing contracts are limited to certain parts or components. The contracted manufacturer handles making one part of a larger product. Manufacturers may work alongside other manufacturers. Alternatively, they may send parts to the final assembly line.
These contracts can become very complex. Often these contract are in agreement with third-party companies. If Company A hires Company B to make a part, Company B might want to hire Company C to make a small part of the final product. In this case, the agreement because companies B and C must be approved by Company A.
This type of contract is common in specialist industries. Manufacturers outsource components that need expert knowledge and labor.
Labor Or Service Subcontracting
This contract is similar to individual component manufacturing contracts. Labor and services contracts are common in specialist industries. If a manufacturer doesn’t offer a full service, they may outsource some elements to a third party.
Manufacturers hire third-party suppliers or extra subcontractors for tasks that need specialists. This could include particular industry standards or qualifications.
The Benefits of Using Manufacturing Contracts
The contract manufacturing market is still growing. More companies are appreciating the benefits of outsourcing manufacturing. Contracts benefits both sides by setting expectations and outlining exactly what needs to be done.
Here are a few of the main benefits of manufacturing contracts.
Cost Savings
A good manufacturing contract should save money for both sides. Outsourcing manufacturing means companies don’t need to invest in specialist equipment. There is no need to set up factories, hire more staff or source materials. Furthermore, depending on the cross-border conditions, there may be tax savings.
For the manufacturer, contracts can help manufacturers adjust for expected quality and deadlines. With more information, companies can plan resources to save energy and labor costs. Manufactures can also bulk-buy raw materials at a lower cost.
Improved Focus
Working with a manufacturer allows companies to focus on what they do best. There is no need to become experts in the manufacturing process. Companies can spend money and resources designing and marketing their product.
The manufacturing company doesn’t need to worry about finding customers and making sales. This makes each company more efficient and more successful in its own field.
Increased Quality
Outsourcing manufacturing to an expert manufacturer means benefitting from their experience and expertise. The manufacturing company will have processes to ensure quality. A professional company is less likely to make mistakes resulting in recalls. This allows most companies to benefit from a higher-quality product from the start.
For companies that don’t have experience in manufacturing, outsourcing guarantees quality.
A contract makes the acceptable standard clear for manufacturing companies. This allows them to work to the quality requirements. Manufacturing companies can clearly understand what is expected.
Legal Security
A proper manufacturing agreement provides security for both sides. It can also help to increase trust between partners. With a signed contract, both companies can relax knowing they are protected. Neither side will end up in trouble for the other’s mistakes.
Legally-binding contracts help protect intellectual property and patents. And ensure that health and safety are taken seriously. Failure to adhere to the agreed-upon standards can result in the contract being void.
With secure agreements in place, both companies can trust the other. The result of not meeting expectations could have severe consequences.
Things To Look Out For
Manufacturing contracts are usually drawn up by legal departments. They are designed to protect the interests of both parties. A contract should help everything run smoothly and ensures the process is simple.
However, some companies run into problems with poorly written contracts. A production contract can cause more trouble than expected if you’re not careful.
Copyright and Selling Ideas
For protected and patented ideas or designs, outsourcing means more people could leak the design. Even if you have airtight restrictions on a design, competitors can create similar designs.
For unprotected designs, unethical manufacturers can sell ideas to other companies. They may make a profit and help the competition by creating your product for others.
Cutting Corners
Unless a contract is very specific, some manufacturers may source from questionable locations. The contract should include testing capabilities and procedures. The contract should outline potential consequences for manufacturers that cut corners during production.
Damage to Reputation
Child labor and slavery are not uncommon in some parts of the world. Companies need to be sure they trust their manufacturer to make good decisions. The potential for reputation damage is significant. A product made using child labor could be a PR disaster, even if the company was unaware. Your manufacturer is an extension of your business. Your business values and ethics should align.
Other Priorities
Many manufacturers will work with several clients at a time. This can result in one contract taking priority over another. The result is that deadlines can be missed as the manufacturer focuses on another project. A contract should make deadlines clear. This also means that surges in demand may not be met by production. The manufacturer cannot necessarily stop working with another client to fulfill demand surges.
Cultural Differences
Contract manufacturing is a global industry. As a result, there are plenty of cultural differences. Contract manufacturing in China has different expectations from similar companies in the USA. Working across borders with Chinese contract manufacturing means double-checking language translations. There may also be country-specific regulations and cultural differences.
What To Know Before You Sign A Manufacturing Contract
If you’re thinking of outsourcing manufacturing, you want to be sure you’re signing the right contract. Before putting pen to paper, here are some things to ask your production partner.
Who Is The Point Of Contact?
Often overlooked, knowing your specific contact is incredibly important. It means that if you have a problem, you can get in touch with someone fast. Otherwise, you may be unsure who to contact when things go wrong or when you want to make changes to your product.
Do You Have Testimonials?
If you want to take advantage of someone’s experience and skill, they should be able to demonstrate it. Ask to see client testimonials or example products from their line. This will allow you to be a judge of their quality of work.
Can I See Your Factory/Workshop?
A manufacturer should be transparent and willing to show you around their facilities. If they are reluctant, they may have something to hide. In minor cases, this can include a few health and safety breaches or operational inefficiencies. In more extreme cases, this can consist of child labor.
How Are You Maximizing Efficiency And Keeping Costs Low?
This will give you a good idea of how the manufacturer balances cost savings while maintaining a high standard. You should be aware of internal quality assurance procedures. Asking this can also help you understand exactly what you are paying for. It can also give insight into what type of business the manufacturer is.
Will Raw Material Price Increases Be Passed On?
Raw material costs frequently fluctuate. This can become an unplanned hidden cost later on. Some manufacturers will bulk buy in advance and take price increases into account. However, some contractors will ask for a price increase later on as raw material costs change.
What Process Do You Have In Place When Things Go Wrong?
To have total trust in your manufacturing partner, you need to be confident they know what to do when things don’t go to plan. This can include fire to supply chain issues and quality control failure. This should include how and when they inform you of problems.
What Non-Compete Clauses Do You Have?
His might not be relevant for every situation. However, there are many cases where you don’t want your manufacturer working with your competitor. You should check how they deal with competition proposals before signing.
What Possibility Is There For Contract Flexibility?
Business changes fast. You may sign a contract for one thing and find a few months later that you need to make changes. This could be quantity, quality, design, or price. Before signing, check out how much of the contract is flexible. What are your options for changing it, and how long will it take for changes to be implemented? You should also check if changes will incur extra costs.
The Right Manufacturing Contract For Your Business
Not all manufacturing contracts are created equal. Getting the right contractor for your business takes time, effort, and knowledge. Before you sign a contract, you should get it checked by your legal department or an independent lawyer.
Working with a good manufacturing company can save you time, money, and hassle and help you achieve a higher quality product.
Get in touch today to start enjoying all the benefits of contract manufacturing.
How to Find the Right Chinese Manufacturer for Your Business
In the last few decades, the Chinese economy has grown incredibly fast. One of the big reasons for this is because Chinese companies manufacture a considerable amount of products for western companies.
If you want to reduce production costs and grow your business, it makes a lot of sense to work with a China manufacturer. Given that you’d be working with a foreign company, the process can feel overwhelming.
So what exactly do you need to look for to make sure you find the right company for the job? This article lists some of the things you need to consider before signing a contract with a Chinese company.
Do They Have Certifications?
When you work with Chinese manufacturers, you need to be sure they have the right certifications. This helps to make sure you can rely on the company. If the China assembly service doesn’t have certifications to show you, it could be a red flag.
Always make sure you get proof of the correct documentation. A good company should be more than happy to provide proof.
Are They Financially Stable?
It’s also important that you work with product assembly services in China that are financially stable. The reason for this is simple. If the company goes out of business during production, it causes you a lot of problems.
A good Chinese product production company will be financially stable enough that you can rely on them to consistently deliver the product. You can find out if a company is financially stable by asking them about its finances. You should also verify what they say by researching the company.
Do They Offer Any Additional Services?
When looking into product assembly in China, you should also look for companies that offer multiple services. Many manufacturing companies in China offer other additional benefits, such as graphic design or packaging design.
This means that the company could deliver your product fully packaged and ready to go. Working with a company that offers such additional services can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
You should take the time to analyze exactly what your company needs. Then see if you can find a Chinese manufacturing company that can meet all of those needs. When you’re only dealing with one company for a variety of services, it can really streamline your production process.
How Big is the Company?
You should also pay attention to the size of the company. While you might be tempted to go for the biggest company possible, this isn’t always the best choice. If you’re a small business, it may make more sense to go with a small or medium-sized manufacturing company.
As a small company, you’d probably be a much lower priority for a large company. On the other hand, if you go with a smaller company, they’ll have much more time to focus on your manufacturing job.
Before signing a contract, make sure that the company you’re considering doesn’t work with many big clients.
What is the Minimum Order Quantity?
You’ll also need to figure out if there’s a minimum order quantity. Many Chinese manufacturing companies will only work with you if you want to produce a certain number of units.
For larger businesses, this isn’t usually a problem, but for a small company, it could be problematic. Always make sure you confirm the minimum order quantity before you start doing business. This makes sure you won’t face any nasty surprises in the future.
Also, beware that if you work with a larger manufacturing company, they may implement a minimum order quantity later on in the business relationship.
Do They Have Good Quality Control?
When working with a Chinese manufacturing company, quality control is key. If the company sends you products that are not up to standard, your profit margins will decrease.
While Chinese manufacturing companies had a bad reputation for poor quality control in the past, they’ve gotten much better in recent years. If you work with a reputable company, you should have no problems getting quality products delivered.
Manufacturing companies should also have policies in place to reimburse you if some of the products are not up to standard.
Can They Provide a Product Sample?
Working with a foreign manufacturing company is always a risk. That’s why you should ask for a product sample before you commit to a serious business relationship.
A good manufacturing company would be more than happy to provide you with sample products. They should also be receptive to your feedback. It’s not uncommon to go through a few prototype examples before you get something you’re happy with.
Beware of any companies that aren’t willing to provide samples as it suggests they might not be a company you can rely on.
Check Out Reviews and Get Recommendations
You should also make sure you check out reviews of a potential company. These days a huge range of businesses use Chinese manufacturing, so you should find no shortage of online reviews.
You should try to verify the legitimacy of these reviews to make sure they’re not fake. You might also consider talking to other business owners you have a relationship with. Recommendations from friends are worth a lot as you know they’re genuine.
A China Manufacturer Can Grow Your Company
If you’re looking for a way to take your company to the next level, a China manufacturer makes a lot of sense. If you want to make a reasonable profit, you’ll need to find a way to keep costs down. Chinese manufacturers allow you to do exactly that.
If you want to work with a company with a lot of experience in working with Chinese manufacturing, contact us today, and we can help you to grow your business.
How to Navigate Contract Manufacturing in China
For some western companies considering overseas production, they may want to open up a permanent factory in the country where they wish to operate. For others, there are many options for short-term factory operations without investing too much time or money into it. These factories can be found easily in China—a country that provides what is needed for this type of business.
Working with an overseas partner can be quite daunting, but there are ways to navigate these situations successfully.
To make this decision easier for you, we will explore the nuances of contracting work out to a Chinese manufacturing company and what you might expect from such an arrangement – whether it’s just for one new product or if you’re considering scaling up your production globally. Let’s dive in!
What is Contract Manufacturing?
Simply put, contracting manufacturing is when one company hires another to build components or parts on their behalf over a specific period and at an agreed-upon price.
This enables a company to start producing its products without having the huge amount of resources or the funds necessary to build and run a factory.
Different Kinds Of Contract Manufacturing In China
There are many different types of contracting agreements between companies that engage in contract manufacturing in China. These range from simple to complex and can be broken down into 3 main categories:
1. Private Label Manufacturing
Under a private label manufacturing agreement, the contract manufacturer delivers an item to the client’s inventory warehouse or directly to the store for them to sell under their brand.
In this way, the entire private label manufacturing process is outsourced. The client has full control over designing, marketing, and managing other aspects of their business.
2. Individual Component Manufacturing
Component manufacturing is known as a one-time service, which is generally used to refer to producing specific, individual components.
In individual component manufacturing, contract manufacturing is only responsible for producing one component that will eventually become part of a larger, more complicated final product.
For instance, basic components such as lifting bolts can be manufactured in bulk – this lowers costs for the manufacturer because they are produced to the same specifications.
3. End-to-End Manufacturing
End-to-end manufacturing is a process where products go through every stage of production under one roof.
Of course, that’s not to say there are no outside vendors. There are things like raw material sourcing and shipping handled by external companies.
End-to-end manufacturing is more about the process, rather than the materials. It leaves more control for the client company in regards to design, quality control, and other details.
Working With A Quality Contract Manufacturer In China
There are many benefits of working with a contract manufacturing company in China. Here are a few of the best.
1. Reduce Overall Costs
Across almost every industry, businesses cite this as their number one reason for outsourcing production to China.
Outsourcing allows access to existing facilities and trained professionals, saving time and money in the process. You only pay for the final product exactly what you need, which means you can stick to a smaller and more manageable budget.
2. Flexibility
Although having your factory is a good way to get exactly what you want, outsourcing to contract manufacturing can be a smart try if you are new to this field.
When it comes to contract manufacturing, flexibility is another important factor you should keep in mind when choosing a supplier.
With numerous factories and workers in the manufacturing industry, you can reach out to your manufacturing partner at any time if there are any changes you need to make.
3. Fast Production
When you partner with a reputable Chinese contract manufacturing supplier for your products, you’ll be able to save more time.
Working with an experienced manufacturer means that not only will your products get manufactured quicker, but they’ll also be done well – because the company has invested in its facility over the years to perfect its production process.
They’ll handle every aspect of product development and manufacturing, allowing you to bring them to the marketplace faster so you can generate revenue right away.
When to Choose a Contract Manufacturer
Manufacturing in China has been proven to be an effective and cost-effective way for many Western companies who can’t compete with wages in other countries and regions.
Though contract manufacturing is often a wise choice, it doesn’t necessarily make sense for all businesses. Here are some things to keep in mind before considering it an option for your company.
- Doing due diligence
- Checking qualifications
- Comparing manufacturing capabilities
- Dealing directly with the contract manufacturer rather than a middle-man
- Conduct product quality
Find A Reliable Contract Manufacturer In China
In recent years, as China’s economy has entered a new era, it has transformed from the low-end to the high-end of the manufacturing industry.
There has been such an increase in the number of production plants becoming less labor-intensive and even more quality driven.
Still, choosing a perfect manufacturing company in China may not be easy. So It’s better to work with an established and reputable company that specializes in manufacturing for years.
Now, if you are ready to start making your products in China, try to work with us Shield Works.
Shield Works is a British-owned and managed company in the South China Greater Bay Area. We specialize in product design, prototyping, manufacturing, and product assembly for clients from all over the world.
We attribute our success to the dedication and expertise of our engineering team who is highly qualified and experienced. With over 15,000 projects completed, there is no wonder why we’ve been able to achieve success. Contact us for a no-cost consultation!
Product Manufacturing: 5 Steps To Start Manufacturing Your Products In China
If you have a great idea that you think it’s feasible and a desire to turn it into reality, you can make the jump and create something great out of nothing.
You may still have some questions:
- How do I find a manufacturer for my product?
- How much will it cost me?
- How long will it take them to produce my orders?
Whatever it is, for starters, you have to know that there are a lot of factories that are waiting out there who are dying to produce your dream products.
If you are still struggling with the idea of whether or not to outsource manufacturing your products to China, here are 5 steps to manufacture your products in China. Let’s begin!
Step 1: List All Your Needs
You might have a good idea of how to develop and operate a small business, at least you think so. But maybe you are not quite sure how to get it done.
By far, the most common question we get after 17 years of helping international businesses to move their production to China is “What do I need to provide to get an estimate quote from a manufacturer?”
Maybe you also have this question, right?
Well, to answer this question, you have to understand the manufacturing process. Each product is made based on its materials and complexity, and the processes needed to meet the required specifications.
This is important: having every detail mapped out before contacting any potential manufacturers will make it easier for you and the manufacturer to have an accurate quote.
In fact, at Shield Works, we generally work with a lot of overseas entrepreneurs who have a detailed plan for their products.
Most of our clients understand the gap between current demand and reality, so they try to find a perfect niche to expand their businesses. And they also understand their requirements will vary based on certain orders. So try to let your prospective partners know your product plan ahead of time. It’s also important to keep costs down while still meeting all requirements necessary.
By knowing where your priorities lie before approaching any potential manufacturers, everyone will be aware of what is possible and what isn’t without too much lost time or money later on in development.
Step 2: Build A Product Prototype
Whether you are new to the product manufacturing industry in China or a seasoned veteran, you have likely heard of the concept of product prototyping.
In short, product prototyping is the process to create an initial product to test the function and user experience based on what you will see in this tangible form. It’s also an essential phase that shouldn’t be ignored.
Typically, there are two approaches to creating a physical prototype for your product.
3D Printing
3D printing has a significant influence on the mandating industry.
Using this technology, you can mass produce prototype samples quickly by simply inputting some simple information using a process known as rapid prototyping.
3D printers are best suited for industries that need frequent and disposable prototypes to represent something visually – including jewelry, clothes, and consumer goods.
CNC Prototyping
CNC is an abbreviation of Computer Numerical Control, which allows you to create near-perfect replicas of your product.
Also, it’s a good idea to use the CNC prototypes to showcase a simple demo of your product to potential clients, which can help you gather feedback and suggestions in order to improve the product.
CNC prototypes are ideal for products such as industrial equipment, medical devices, etc.
Step 3: Confirm Your BOM
A bill of materials, also known as a BOM, is the comprehensive list of all required parts, items, raw materials, and assemblies that you need to manufacture a product.
A BOM is one of the most important documents for a custom manufacturer—think of it as a recipe—as it includes all of the components and steps you need to take to manufacture your product.
Typically, BOM is usually split into 2 categories, EBOM (An Engineering Bill of Materials) and MBOM (Manufacturing Bill of Materials)
EBOM
EBOM is used primarily by engineers when they design a product and is often created in a CAD (computer aided design) system.
MBOM
While the EBOM deals with product design, the MBOM or Manufacturing BOM deals with product assembly which is more detailed than EBOMs in both structure and depth.
MBOMs need to include a line for every material required part or assembly on the supply chain, along with instructions on how the part is to be used.
To have a better understanding of these two terms, let’s take a look at this example:
If the product you are building needs 12 of a certain type of screw, then each individual screw will be listed in the MBOM. Conversely, the EBOM will only list a line where there are 12 total screws needed for production.
Providing an accurate BOM allow your manufacturer to deliver products on time and buy at the best rates for materials and components, thus saving you both money and time.
Step 4: Be Careful Of The Quality
If you have a product prototype on hand, and you have every problem fixed, you’re already halfway there.
After mass production, you should always make sure to avoid common pitfalls with product quality.
Poor-quality products will only hurt your business and tarnish your brand.
If you don’t want to waste your time and money on the long process of product creation, and want to stand out from other brands, it’s better to invest in quality control and customer experience. Otherwise, you may compete on price or delivery options.
To avoid quality problems as much as possible, here are three keys points you should keep in mind:
- Be clear and concise about your product requirements and expectations.
- Investigate and work with your manufacturing supplier to ensure your product complies with the regulations of the final market.
- Follow up throughout production and communicate effectively.
In short, it’s easier than trying to fix things later on!
Step 5: Find A Reliable Manufacturer In China
Manufacturing in China can be a daunting experience for any overseas business. Though the overall process may be similar, the technique and equipment vary from company to company.
Also, selecting a manufacturing company in China can be quite difficult. So It’s better to work with an established and reputable company that specializes in manufacturing for years.
Now, if you are ready to start making your products in China, try to work with us Shield Works.
Shield Works is a British-owned and managed company in Zhuhai City, Guangdong Province, South China Greater Bay Area. We specialize in product design, prototyping, manufacturing, and product assembly for clients from all over the world.
We attribute our success to the dedication and expertise of our engineering team who is highly qualified and experienced. With over 15,000 projects completed, there is no wonder why we’ve been able to achieve success. Contact us for a no-cost consultation!
Finding A Perfect Factory: 5 Reasons Why It’s Hard to Find a Reliable Manufacturing Partner in China
China has been the production powerhouse of the world for a few decades and now is churning out products at an ever-increasing rate.
With so many overseas companies turning to Chinese manufacturers, it still can be hard for some of them to find a reliable and professional manufacturing plant that meets all their requirements and standards.
This article will explore some reasons why finding such a manufacturing partner in China is difficult, as well as offer advice on how to do so successfully.
If you’re an overseas company looking to make your first foray into the Chinese manufacturing world, this information could be critical to your success. Check out the five reasons why it’s hard to find manufacturing partners in China and start building your own business there today!
1. Factories Don’t Have Websites
With the development of the Internet and related technology, it’s pretty standard for companies to have some sort of online presence. This is especially true for manufacturing companies who want to show off their capabilities and reach more global clients.
However, many Chinese factories still don’t establish their websites. This can make it difficult for foreign companies to research potential partners and get a sense of their work.
Cost and human resources are the other two main reasons why smaller businesses would avoid setting up their websites.
Though these small and medium-sized factory owners may find the idea of having a website intriguing, many do not have enough money for both technologies and for hiring someone to set it up. Also, this could be way too expensive for them when compared with how much revenue the business generates annually or if there is even potential for any return from this investment at all.
2. Difficulty with Language
One of the main reasons it can be difficult to find a reliable manufacturing partner in China is the language barrier.
Commonly, most staff working at most Chinese factories don’t use English as their first language. Typically, most factories hire a few employees who can speak English to work with foreign clients, but there’s no guarantee of their English ability.
Communicating clearly to your Chinese supplier will make things easier for both parties involved. Don’t just rely on letters or phone calls, but show them what you want and need, and ask them to list them back to you in an understandable format.
The key to clear communication with your factory representative is clear, simple, and open. Even when you are communicating with someone who has a good grasp of spoken English, it’s best not to simply send them product specifications through email and assume they will understand all information without questions. Because sometimes people need clarification due to cultural differences or what they’re used to manufacturing versus what you want.
3. More Factories Are On 1688
Whether you are running a brick-and-mortar or an online retail shop, if you want to import products from China, then Alibaba can be a good start to reach out to many manufacturers.
However, if you think you get your desired goods at the best rates on Alibaba, you’d be wrong. There’s another B2B platform out there that boasts significantly more manufacturers providing lower prices for the same goods
That’s 1688. com.
1688 is the biggest and most popular Chinese wholesale platform that covers all manner of different goods including apparel, industrial equipment, home appliances, and more. Dozen of manufacturers sell their products directly on this platform rather than working with other trading companies. Some trading companies reach out to factories and then go on to resell their goods at higher prices on other platforms such as Alibaba, Aliexpress, Gearbest, etc.
So you may also want to find your ideal factory on 1688 right?
Yes, of course, you can. The only issue is that everything is written in Chinese, which helps cater to China-based manufacturers. It will be hard for those who don’t know any Chinese to locate a proper company to work with. And there are simply too many listings, products, and suppliers, it can be way too much to weed through, which makes it difficult for you to reach out to a reliable partner for your business. Additionally, as a domestically oriented website, they offer few payment options, such as Domestic Bank Transfers, Alipay, and WeChat Pay, which won’t allow international sellers or buyers access easily.
4. The Fuzzy Definition of Quality
When it comes to finding the best factory for your production project, quality is one of the most important paramount you need to pay attention to – but getting it right isn’t always easy.
Overseas companies often find themselves having difficulty defining product quality when looking for a Chinese manufacturer because everyone has their own opinion about what constitutes “high quality”.
Asking 100 factories about their concept of product quality nets you 100 responses. Some factories would say that quality means products meet all their in-house specifications and requirements; some mean there are no defects present and they comply with international standards; others make sure products are fully functional straight out of the box.
It’s hard enough trying to decide who has the highest level of product quality without this uncertainty over what exactly quality even entails making decisions even harder.
What’s more, every customer has different standards, and what may be considered high quality to one won’t always be accepted by someone else.
Overseas companies in other countries often have their own specific needs when importing goods, which makes it hard for factories in China to know exactly what they need to do to satisfy their customers’ requests.
It can be frustrating, right? Don’t worry.
International Quality Standards like the ISO family and IATF 16949 are essential for making high-quality products. These international tools can help you control costs, simplify compliance, and guarantee safe, dependable products.
5. Lack of Trust
Many foreign companies are hesitant to work with Chinese manufacturers because they lack trust.
From the supplier perspective, the main reason is cultural differences and a lack of understanding of the Chinese business landscape. China has seen an upsurge in small-to-medium-sized factories over recent years and they often rely on word-of-mouth referrals from individuals who share common needs to increase their customer base.
Typically, many of these small and medium-sized factories have established relationships with local networks that are other factories or trading companies, and they focus on making products for these domestic partners.
On the other hand, there have been numerous stories in the online forum or other social platforms saying that about Chinese factory’s stolen intellectual property or delayed deliveries which dissuade overseas businesses from partnering with a factory. This makes it hard for companies to take the leap of faith and partner with a factory in China.
The best way to overcome this problem is by building a relationship with the company you’re interested in working with. The more time you spend getting to know them, the more likely you’ll be able to build up that necessary level of trust so that your overseas company can get what they need from them.
Need Professional Help With Your Manufacturing Project?
Finding the right manufacturing plant for your project is quite a task. It takes extensive research before deciding to ensure you are getting the best deal.
To find a professional contract manufacturer in China, look no further than Shield Works.
With our British ownership and management background combined with manufacturing knowledge, we keep quality at the forefront. You don’t have to worry about any defective products coming out of our doors. As one of only a few businesses able to boast 17 years’ worth of experience under their belt in China and helping over 15,000 previous clients complete projects successfully and cost-effectively, we’ll provide all your questions answered on how to manufacture in China! Contact us to discuss your project today!
Manufacturing In China: 4 Tips To Spot A Real Factory Vs. Trading Company In China In 2022
If you’re considering outsourcing production to China, there are certain things to know before embarking on the task like
- How to start?
- Who you can reach?
- What to do before placing an order?
- How much will it cost?
However, the most important thing is to make sure you are going to work with an actual factory rather than a trading company.
Why? Because when you work directly with the actual factory:
- Your spending will be less to get the same items, which increases your profit margin and reduces lead time.
- You can make changes to the product easier and quicker.
- Your product quality will be higher because you can check with your supplier now and then.
So, as you can imagine, it can be difficult to find out whether a supplier is a factory or just someone pretending to be one. Here are four tips you can use to figure this out.
1. Check The Business License
First and foremost, it’s a good idea to request a copy of your manufacturer’s business license which is called “营业执照” in Chinese.
Every legitimate company in China has a business license issued by a local branch of the Administration of Industry and Commerce (AIC). It is an official certificate, proving that the company has been registered with the authorities and operates legally.
If your potential supplier doesn’t have a business license, that’s a huge red flag. it’s best not to do any kind of business with them until they get everything sorted out on their end. No matter what they say, don’t risk your time and money.
If your supplier claims that they have a business license, it’s better to request a physical copy. It can be used as proof that your supplier is an actual manufacturer. In addition, if there is ever any dispute with your supplier, having a physical copy of their business license on file could be helpful.
Once you receive the business license, make sure you review it carefully. Keep in mind to check the business scope which should include words like “manufacture or produce” (生产，加工，制造)
if you don’t know Chinese, it’s ok.
Here is a simple way:
You can use your phone to scan the business license, extract words, and copy-paste to the Google translator. The business scope is the combination of some simple words so don’t worry about the correctness.
Verifying the business license is the first step when doing due diligence on a Chinese company. It allows you to verify that the company is legit and not a scam.
2. Check the Sample Address
Many Chinese manufacturing companies are willing to send out samples when you have a detailed plan for working with them.
One way that you can use this method is to verify if your chosen manufacturing supplier understands your requirements and quality standards.
Moreover, we advise checking the address of the sample package before disposing of it. Make sure it matches up with what is included on the business license that you requested beforehand.
If they are the same addresses, then this manufacturing supplier may well be a real factory rather than just someone acting as a middleman.
However, this isn’t always reliable.
The reason being is that some companies set up offices downtown whilst their factories are located outside of town due to cheaper rates for renting land.
In this case, even though the sample address might not be an office at that location, it still could be possible that they’re a real factory.
You have to check with your supplier to request both business licenses for the office and the factory.
3. Check the Facility Visuals
Now, many Chinese factories have the abilities and technologies to introduce themselves to the world through visualization.
Take Shield Works for example, we have invested heavily in digital presence such as
- Uploading our facility video online: enhance transparency across our manufacturing plant thoroughly.
- Creating a virtual facility tour on our homepage: show an immersive tour of our whole production environment.
- Posting images of the facility or factory tour on social platforms: keep our followers updated about our new visitors.
The reason for checking the facility visuals is that most foreign business owners can not come to China in person to make a physical facility tour to confirm the production environments, capabilities, and quality.
If a supplier tells you that they own a huge and state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, but cannot provide any proof yet, then it might be worth walking away from them until they can back up what they say with hard evidence.
By checking their facilities, you will have more confidence to build trust and reduce business risk.
4. Check The ISO Certifications
Typically, not every trading company has ISO certifications but the majority of manufacturing factories do.
This is because a factory needs some specific ISO certifications to keep operating.
However, some trading companies also have ISO certifications to deal exclusively in one product category and maintain a strong relationship with their manufacturers.
Working with such a trading company is the same as working with a real manufacturing company with a factory when it comes to price.
Meet Shield Works
When selecting a manufacturing company in China, you have taken into consideration many factors.
It’s important to list your needs and criteria before starting the process of narrowing down candidates or you risk being too hasty in making a decision without taking all necessary factors into account.
Working with a professional manufacturing company in China like Shield Works will save you time and reduce risks.
With our British ownership and management background, we take great pride in our over 17 years of international project experience and excellent team. Contact us for a no-cost consultation!
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!