How to Choose the Right OEM Manufacturers in China

Do you have a new product that you want to sell for your company, but you are unsure what type of manufacturer to use? Have you decided to use a manufacturer in China, but you aren’t sure what type of manufacturers are available? Most people don’t know that there are OEM manufacturers in China in addition to ODM manufacturers.

So what is the difference between the two? We will give you a hint; one provides more protection and more specification help than the other. They are both excellent options to bring your products to the market, but you should be aware of a few other key differences. This brief manufacturing guide will cover the difference between the two and who you can contact for more information. 

What is OEM Manufacturing?

Before we get into what OEM Manufacturing is, we must first define what OEM is. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturing, and it is a form of outsourced manufacturing. OEM factories have the capabilities to manufacture products according to your unique specifications and designs. 

Before an OEM manufacturer can produce your product, you must complete your research and development. This includes engineering, market research, and design.

Once you have all the components of your product down in writing, you can then reach out to an OEM manufacturer to create your products in bulk. The original equipment manufacturer will set up the production of your product to make sure that they can produce the product on time, on quality, at your designated budget. 

Advantages of OEM Manufacturing

One of the most significant advantages of OEM is the fact that you have complete control over your intellectual property. This is a huge deal, especially if you have a breakthrough project and you choose to ship your production services overseas. 

When you control the research and development of your product, you have complete control over your intellectual property. This gives you better bargaining position and makes it easier to switch to another supplier if you need to. Even though you have full control of your intellectual property, it is best to protect it at all costs. 

Specialized Technology

If you don’t have the right expertise or equipment to create certain parts of your product, you can depend on your OEM to have it for you. It is best to take advantage of the technology offered by your OEM manufacturer to complete your project. Access to this type of technology and expertise ensures that the manufacturer will create your product with top-tier quality. 

Cost-Effective

When you partner with OEM manufacturers in China, they can streamline the process of creating your product in large volumes. China is also well known for its efficient supply chains, making it cheaper to produce your product. This provides your business with higher profit margins, more revenue, and increased sales. 

Disadvantages of OEM Manufacturing

One main disadvantage of using OEM manufacturing is a limited selection of suppliers for certain specialized items. Most OEM manufacturing companies prefer to work with businesses that create a lot of demand, so if you don’t sell your goods fast, they most likely won’t work with you. 

Risk of Infringement

Because you are sending your items to a company to create your product, there is a risk of infringement. It is important to note that every country has its own rules and regulations for intellectual property. If you aren’t diligent in protecting your product, you risk someone selling your components to your top competitors. 

No Troubleshooting

Once you have your specifications down and send it over to the manufacturer, they will create your product based on what you send. This means that they won’t troubleshoot or correct any faulty designs as they produce your items. They will only manufacture based on what they have from you. 

What is ODM?

Original Design Manufacturing, also known as ODM, is another form of manufacturing. Unlike OEMs, ODMs provide product development services, and depending on the company; they can help you with the entire product lifecycle. The exact scope of what an original design manufacturing company can do differs from company to company. 

Let’s say that your company has an excellent idea for a gaming console. You did your market research and found an opportunity to create a low-priced gaming console of decent quality in China. 

You and your team will need to develop some features you want the console to have, but you don’t necessarily have any specifications or technical drawings. If you want a gaming system that meets your requirements, you can reach out to an ODM to fulfill what you need.

Your ODM company can help you create specifications and new designs based on your idea. The ODM may already have its own product lines that you can customize if you would like. 

Advantages of ODM

One significant advantage of using original design manufacturing companies is that you don’t have to make substantial upfront investments. You won’t have to pay for any tooling; the ODM will take care of that. 

Technical Resources

With an ODM, you don’t need technical resources that provide detailed specifications and designs. Instead, the ODM will handle all of that for you. Many Amazon FBA sellers prefer to use ODMs to create and sell their products quickly. 

Quick Turnaround

ODM companies don’t worry about testing, developing, or researching a product. They usually have already created products that they can rebrand for your business. To ensure you don’t run into issues with another company claiming that you copied their idea, the ODM will handle making sure the product uniquely links to your company. 

Least Expensive Manufacturing Route

Testing and designing a product takes a lot of time and requires a decent amount of capital. When you partner with an ODM manufacturer, you have the opportunity to save money while you focus on the core aspect of your business. 

Reliable Products

Depending on your product, certification is typically required before your product can hit the market. To ensure that your product meets quality requirements, ODM manufacturers will handle all quality testing and inspections. They will also get the proper product certificates you need before selling your product. 

Disadvantages of ODM

Although these manufacturers provide you with a quick and easy way to create a product for your business, working with them can make it harder to stand out from the competition. Your manufacturer will sell the exact product you create to other companies with minor alterations. 

Even if you manage to make significant sales volumes, your ODM most likely won’t honor your changes if your customers request customizations or upgrades. Most manufacturers don’t develop new products, especially if a specific product requires a full or a partial redesign. 

No Intellectual Property Rights

Because your manufacturer designed, tested, and developed these products, they own the item’s intellectual properties. This means that you have no control over the ODM’s legal decisions about the product.

You also have no control over who the supplier sells the item to. There is a chance they could sell your product to another competitor.

There is also a chance that the item you buy from your ODM could be another company’s intellectual property. If you are unaware of this and you sell your product on the market, you’re at a risk of facing a lawsuit.

How to Find an OEM or ODM Manufacturer in China

Choosing an OEM manufacturer in China can be an overwhelming experience. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of manufacturers in China who can help bring your product to life.

The best way to find the proper manufacturer for you is to look up some and make a list of those you like best. There are certain companies that have high-quality components, quick turnarounds, and high customer service ratings.

Shortlist Your Companies

Once you have a list of companies you may want to work with, it would be best to shortlist them. Look over each company’s length of time in business and see if they specialize in the component you need. 

Other essential details to look over:

  • Certifications the company has for their production capability
  • Business licenses
  • If the company has already exported products to the United States
  • Their minimum order quantity (MOQ)

If you like a company but have questions about its qualifications, check out its reviews. Most previous clients will rate the company and put what they did or did not like about them. The best way to find out if they have what you need is to contact them. 

Review Their Credentials

Even if a company tells you that they have the right qualifications, it is better to verify those credentials to ensure that they are actually a legitimate company and not a middleman. There are many ways to verify this information. 

For one, you can ask the company for their audited accounts, ask for product samples, or you can check their Value Added Tax Invoice. You can also ask for the Chinese name of the factory, the location of the factory, and the local government office assigned to the factory. The government office should have a copy of the factory’s registration and license records which you can use to verify their details. 

Workplace Rights

Unlike the United States, there are many countries that do not have protocols in place to protect their workers. This means that some workers may not receive adequate breaks or time to get food. Some of these people work for more than eight to twelve hours a day without reasonable pay.

When sourcing the proper manufacturer for your company, make sure that you work with an ethical company. The last thing you want to do is partner with a company that does not care about its employees. Don’t spare efforts on researching their track records.

Hiring a Sourcing Agent

The most significant advantage of hiring a sourcing agent is that they can verify and identify different manufacturers on your behalf. These people have extensive networks of partners and in-depth knowledge of the sourcing market. 

There are many companies that have sourcing agents on staff who can serve as the liaison between you and their manufacturer. They are able to speak to you in your native language while being able to translate for their company. 

Visit the Manufacturers

If you aren’t able to visit the manufacturers yourself, you can use a sourcing agent to do that on your behalf. If you can take a trip out to China, you should go to check out the different available manufacturers. 

When you go in person, you can see the facility first-hand and meet with key personnel at the manufacturing facility. While you are there, you can better explain the specifications of your product and if they can handle that for you. Visiting in person also lets the manufacturer know that you are serious about working with them to create your product. 

Build Your Product With Confidence

There are many different ODM and OEM manufacturers in China that can bring your ideas to life, but which of the two is the better option for you? Choosing the proper manufacturer for your business needs shouldn’t be a complicated process, and that is what we are here for.

If you need help deciding between the two or if you are set on working with an OEM manufacturer in China, contact us now. Our team is fully prepared to answer any questions or concerns you have about our process!

Manufacturing In China: How To Protect Your Intellectual Property?

It is not surprising that China has developed to become a major manufacturing superpower and more and more overseas companies have moved their production to China. However, some of them are having issues with IP protection while manufacturing in China.

If you are planning to manufacture your products in China, make sure you do everything possible to protect your intellectual property rights. Read on to learn more about the strategies you can use to avoid patent infringement issues in the Chinese market.

What Is IP?

Before you outsource your production to China, it is important to understand what happens to your intellectual property rights (IPR) once you outsource to a Chinese manufacturer.

Intellectual property is a broad term that can include anything from a new fashion trend to a specific software algorithm to an entirely new product design.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) makes a definition of IP as “creations of the mind, such as inventions; literary and artistic works; designs; and symbols, names and images used in commerce.”

No matter what type of intellectual property you have, there are some things you should know before starting manufacturing in China to ensure your intellectual property rights are protected.

Each Country Has Its IP Laws

Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, you have to consider how you’ll protect your intellectual property.

The first thing you should do is have a basic understanding of Chinese IP laws.

For example, patents for inventions can be protected for up to 20 years in China. Also, China protects utility models (for up to 10 years) and design patents (for up to 15 years). Utility models are sometimes called “mini-patents” and require a lower level of inventiveness. Design patents protect the look of products.

All patent rights in China are subject to the payment of annual fees after they’ve been granted.

The National IPR Organizations You Should Know In China

In China, the government plays a substantial role in promoting and protecting intellectual property rights (IPRs).

Several governmental departments are responsible for IPRs matters. Keep in mind the differences and functions of these organizations.

China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA)

China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) was formerly known as the State Intellectual Property Office (SIPO). It was renamed in 1980.

The department is responsible for the patent work and comprehensively coordinating the foreign-related affairs in the field of intellectual property throughout the country.

If you want your patent registered in China, make sure you check these common questions that you will need to know:

Trademark Office of China National Intellectual Property Administration

When it comes to handling matters of trademark disputes, you should reach the Trademark Office of the China National Intellectual Property Administration.

It’s responsible for the registration and administration of trademarks throughout the country.

However, the website does not provide an English option, so it would be hard for foreigners to research and apply for a trademark online. Therefore, you can click on the CNIPA website to search for trademark-related information. Or you may go to the local trademark office to make an enquiry in person.

National Copyright Administration of the People’s Republic of China (NCAC)

If you want any copyright information, the National Copyright Administration of the People’s Republic of China website is a good option for you.

It accepts and examines copyrights applications in accordance with the law. 

Keep in mind to check the copyright regulations and laws in China before you register your copyright.

IP Protection Agreement

When partnering with a manufacturing company, make sure you have a well-drafted and properly executed manufacturing agreement that will help you protect your IP, and provide you with relief if the manufacturer breaches the agreement.

The IP agreement should list all relevant details, including IP ownership, confidentiality, non-competition and non-circumvention and more.

Let Shield Works Be Your IP Protective Manufacturing Partner

With our British ownership background, we know how to help our overseas clients to protect their IPs without excessive costs and time.

Shield Works partners with Innopat a leading Zhuhai based IP industry expert to provide you with clear no-nonsense advice and IP protection services.

Our IP protective system safeguards your production line in our innovative facility.

We are ready to accommodate your needs. Contact us today.

5 Tips for Original Equipment Manufacturing

Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) refers to the production of equipment made to the specifications of another company or manufacturer. This business model has been applied by companies around the world and is very common in China’s manufacturing industry, due to its extremely competitive market and high-quality products at reasonable prices. However, there are several key factors that are unique to the OEM model that you must be aware of before beginning your venture into China’s Original Equipment Manufacturing market.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)

If you are new to importing and plan to start your own business, then Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a good place to start. OEM refers to products produced by other companies that are rebranded or sold under another company’s name. For example, if you own a clothing line, you could consider approaching different apparel companies and getting their apparels made with your branding on them and then sell them yourself. When looking at starting an OEM business it’s important that all parties understand what is expected of each other and how everything will work together in order to make sure it ends up as a positive experience for everyone involved.

Finding a Good Supplier

Finding a good supplier is probably one of your biggest challenges. There are literally thousands of manufacturers and suppliers out there, each with its own website, reputation, capabilities and pricing. The problem is that you can’t get to know every single one, even if you try. So what do you do? Find an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) with whom you can work long-term. This way, once your first orders start rolling in, they’ll be able to follow up on it without ever bothering you. Just make sure they’re easy to contact by email or the chat app everyone uses there, WeChat, to be specific—you’ll need them to be responsive because customer satisfaction is key when things go wrong or when there’s something that needs fixing or changing on the spot.

Factories vs. OEMs

While it’s important to understand how both factories and OEMs operate, each has its own purpose. Factories will typically manufacture products to order based on a minimum order quantity (MOQ). That is, they will produce your product based on however many pieces you purchase; with that said, there is no guarantee of quality. OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) are different because they have a brand or intellectual property that gives them more autonomy over their manufacturing decisions; as such, OEMS will have stringent processes in place for ensuring quality control. With that said, choosing between factories and OEMs can come down to where your manufacturing budget aligns best with your business goals.

Outsourcing is never simple

Researching, scouting, and getting to know potential manufacturers and vendors is time-consuming. And when it comes time to find someone you can trust, it’s difficult to know where to start. At last year’s CES technology trade show in Las Vegas, there was a firm presented as a go-to manufacturer of devices that look like iPads but cost far less. But when we investigated further, we found that almost everything about them was false—they weren’t made by Apple; they didn’t even look like real iPads. The products were unlicensed knockoffs sold through some big retail chains in the US—which said nothing about them being fake or inexpensive.

Dealing with hiccups

A manufacturing hiccup can be anything from an underperforming supplier to a supply chain delay, but it can severely disrupt your production schedule. What do you do if there’s some kind of snag? Your first step is to identify what exactly has gone wrong. If you need help, ask questions and get as much information as possible so that you can resolve it quickly. Ask yourself: What is your problem really? Is there just one issue or several issues adding up? Is it something that you can solve on your own or is it something that needs additional resources and support? Next, figure out how important solving this problem right now really is—and decide what resources are required to get things back on track.

It’s a common misconception that manufacturing in China is expensive. In fact, it’s quite affordable, especially when you compare it to labor and material costs in other developed countries. But we understand your concerns regarding culture, communication and IP protection, as we, C2W, are a one-stop manufacturing solution provider founded and managed by British and based in China, with our own production facility and in-house bilingual engineers. If you are interested in getting to know more about how we can be of help with your product manufacturing while protecting your IP, please feel free to contact us.

Outsourced OEM Production: Is It Always the Best Choice?

If you’re the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) of a design spec, then production is one of your most important considerations. Unfortunately, many companies stumble when it decides to make their OEM products in-house or through outsourcing. In most cases, outsourced OEM products are cheaper and quicker.

But, is this always the best course of action? In this article, we’ll explore whether or not outsourcing your OEM production is the best course of action. Let’s get started!

Outsourced OEM Production

Outsourcing your OEM production involves allowing another manufacturer to produce your product. You keep all the trademarks and intellectual property, but another company does the production.

Most often, this is done with multinational suppliers. Consulting companies with expertise in finding manufacturers will usually help you get in touch with the right company. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons involved in this method. 

Advantages

The biggest advantage that comes with OEM production is cost. Since the outsourcing company is creating your product in bulk, you typically end up saving money on production costs. What’s more, the final product is generally of superior quality. As long as you have strict testing standards, then the outsource OEM firm should be able to meet them if they’re competent.

Many outsourced OEM companies also have specialized technology that allows them to create components you wouldn’t be able to create on your own. In the past, OEM production typically only worked for larger companies. However, this is beginning to change. Smaller companies with excellent design skills can take advantage of this type of outsourcing.

It allows them to avoid dealing with factory floor production skills, which take a lot of energy and money to manage. Instead, they can focus on more design and promotion while allowing a skilled workforce to handle the production. 

Disadvantages 

Unfortunately, there are some downsides to outsourcing your OEM productions. For one thing, you’re at the mercy of your supplier when it comes to quality control. As such, you’re responsible for any problems that might occur at the end of the day. Furthermore, you may have difficulty finding an OEM production firm that’s willing to take you on.

These companies generally only like dealing with clients that create a lot of demand. As such, smaller companies may have a difficult time finding multinational production firms, especially if their products are hard to make.

Finally, if you don’t go with a company that you’re sure of, then you may be at risk of property theft. This occurs when a manufacturer infringes or steals your intellectual property right. It occurs enough in the business, that you should inquire what the company is doing to fight against it. 

In-House OEM Production

In-house production put vertical integration ahead of scale and affordability. Typically, in-house OEM production worked best for smaller companies. However, that’s beginning to change. Let’s take a lot at some of the pros and cons involved in this method. 

Advantages 

The biggest advantage to in-house production is the amount of control you get over your product. As the OEM, you’re naturally an expert when it comes to producing your work. As such, you don’t need to spend time teaching someone else to make it. In-house can also be more advantageous when it comes to scheduling concerns.

Since you don’t need to ship your product or parts over long distances, you can meet your scheduling needs more easily. In-house production also allows you to make more advanced components.

If your product requires a specific part that’s difficult to make, then you’ll have a lot of difficulties finding an OEM manufacturer to make it. However, with enough demand, you can find some custom manufacturing options

Disadvantages

It shouldn’t come as a big surprise that there’s a huge shortage of skilled workers in America. Though this problem was a long time coming, it’s been exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the New York Times predicts that two million skilled jobs could go unfilled by 2025.

As such, finding workers for your in-house production may prove difficult. Another big factor is that it will cost even more to make your product in-house. The sad reality is that overseas production is much more affordable than domestic. What’s more, outsourced OEM production is typically higher in quality than in-house. So, ultimately, you’ll be paying more for a potentially inferior product. 

Why China Is Uniquely Qualified to Handle OEM Product Manufacturing 

There’s a reason why the vast majority of OEM outsourced production goes toward China. China accounts for over 28% of all global manufacturing output. The advanced production capabilities in the country make it easy to meet huge product numbers at an affordable price.

In particular, clothing and electronic brands like Nike and Apple outsource their manufacturing work to the company. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, China is poised to be one of the first countries to dive back into the manufacturing industry.

Despite being one of the early countries to be hit, the government has been able to largely contain the spread within the country. As such, China will have more skilled laborers than many other countries combined to meet OEM product demands.

Ready to Save Money On Your OEM Production? Contact Shield Works

We hope this article helped you learn whether or not outsourced OEM product manufacturing is the right decision for your company. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific set-up. But, the right arrangement can allow the company to divide and conquer in ways that are simply impossible while maintaining an in-house division.

So, how do you find the right manufacturer? Look no further than Shield Works. Our British-owned company works out of China to provide you with affordable manufacturing solutions, as well as expertise in nearly every product category. But, don’t take our word on it. Contact us today so we can walk you through what we can do for you. 

What Can OEM Manufacturers Provide You With? A Closer Look

The OEM industry ships over 1.9 trillion dollars of goods every year, huge right? There are plenty of reasons this type of manufacturing is so popular.

OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are an essential component of modern industrial production. Whether you’re considering a phone, car, or even your beauty products, chances are they contain OEM products inside them.

The majority of the things we use daily come with OEM parts. However, these enterprises primarily operate in the B2B sector. This means most consumers are unaware of their importance.

OEM manufacturers may save money and time. Third-party components allow a company to focus on its primary business. They no longer need to focus on each secondary or internal item.

If you want to learn more about OEM, read on.

What is an OEM, and How Does It Work?

Initially, the term Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) referred to a firm that sold equipment to another company for resale or incorporation into their equipment for sale.

The term “OEM” currently refers to a product obtained by a firm to reuse or incorporate into another product under the reseller’s brand name.

This could mean the entire product is from an OEM manufacturer. The end business simply labeled the product with its branding. Alternatively, the OEM parts are a few components inside a product.

The OEM is the firm that creates subsystems or components that other companies utilize to make the final product. For example, not all of the features in a Lenovo laptop computer are made by Lenovo. Some components, such as the CPU or memory module, may be the work of an OEM.

OEM manufacturers are not the same as value-added resellers or VARs. A VAR is a corporation or organization that purchases an OEM component, part, or product and either enhances or adds extra details. They do so to raise its value before selling it directly to customers.

VARs and OEMs collaborate. OEMs create sub-assembly parts for VARs to sell. Some OEMs produce entire things for VAR distribution, meaning they directly influence the final result.

For example, if your product can handle medical problems, a VAR may bundle it with other goods for health providers.

Why is OEM Important?

A manufacturer or reseller can cut expenses by cooperating with an OEM. Companies are not required to construct manufacturing facilities or manage OEM manufacturing in-house.

They incorporate OEM components from China, India, or other countries with cheap manufacturing.

Typically, the cost savings pass on to the client who purchases the bundled product or system.

Managing many products, systems, and providers may be difficult for the end-user. The technical support and maintenance model expands dramatically when an organization embraces new technology. There might be dozens of OEMs and third-party companies servicing their hardware products.

Companies can decide to involve a third party to connect with and maintain relationships with OEM manufacturers. This makes the process smoother. A consolidated support and service approach helps many firms decrease OEM and vendor complexity.

How is an OEM Product Developed, Partnered With, and Resold?

Before offering a product to end-users, businesses determine the best strategy to meet the demands of their consumers.

By collaborating with an OEM manufacturer, a company may:

  • Decrease manufacturing investment
  • Decrease production costs
  • Decrease material expenses
  • Obtain knowledge in product design
  • Have a shorter production life cycle.
  • Still develop products employing best-of-breed components
  • Focus on branding

OEMs can add everything to the product and brand it with their logo. Other OEMs merely supply components and do not sell products under their name. However, many businesses do both.

These items are often available for purchase straight from the firm as well.

The OEM Manufacturer Sector

In the hardware sector, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is a firm that creates a product for end customers, such as a PC, laptop, or printer. Original equipment makers include Apple, HP, Dell, Canon, and Brother.

On the other hand, OEM hardware refers to the components that comprise the items mentioned above. It includes CPUs, fans, motherboards, memory chips, hard drives, and other features. Companies that manufacture these components offer them to OEMs as OEM hardware.

The hardware sector of the computer business is even more well-known for OEMs. Hard drives, graphics cards, and CPUs for retail goods are built by a small number of firms, with market leaders such as Intel dominating.

For example, hard drive manufacturers provide bare hard drives for OEM customers. they also provide retail hard drives that come in a box with peripherals such as cables and installation instructions.

OEM hardware is often less expensive than retail versions. However, there are certain drawbacks. Most OEM hardware lacks customer support. It also has limited guarantee terms and is not easily integrated with other components of whatever system you’re building.

DVD drives, for example, may be missing cables or ribbons that connect to the motherboard.

It is because OEM hardware is primarily built for resellers. Those manufacturers must include:

  • Warranties
  • Technical assistance
  • Other components when constructing complete systems

Other OEM Physical Products

There are tonnes of other industries that OEM products. These include but aren’t limited to sectors such as:

Machined goods – OEM manufacturers can often build parts to scale, these can include things like shims, nuts and bolts, rotors, and other metal or plastic components for machinery.

Auto – Car companies do not build every single part of their car in their factories. They often use OEM manufactures for computer chips, audio components, door trims, etc.

Tools – Whether we are talking household or industrial tools, OEM parts are frequently used. Motors, drill bits, and casing are all examples of how tools use off-site manufacturing.

Household products – You may be surprised to find that many of your branded household products are actually OEM or contain OEM parts. Everything from pottery, to TVs and kitchen appliances, may use this industry to drive costs down. 

Beauty products – Many beauty companies do not make containers for their product, they often have them shipped in from an OEM manufacturer.

Musical instruments – Piano wires and guitar strings, tuning pegs, piano keys, and any other small part on musical gear are often OEM manufactured.

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) Provide Replacement Components and Spares

Some parts of all products are more prone to wear and tear than others. Companies frequently maintain a continual supply of vital spares on hand for their essential assets. These stockpiles get renewed regularly.

OEMs are the most outstanding providers of equipment parts and replacement components.

OEMs Provide Aftersales Assistance as Well as Maintenance and Repairs

On top of quality testing, certain OEM providers may also provide continuing maintenance services. They do so as part of an after-sales support package. When working with highly specialized equipment, the on-site maintenance personnel may lack the essential skills or instruments to perform the necessary maintenance tasks.

The maintenance contract determines the cost of these services.

Keep in mind that many OEM manufacturers do not offer all of the above services. Choosing vendors that do not provide enough documentation or a consistent supply of spares might raise your maintenance expenses and increase the risk of unplanned downtime. When selecting maintenance contractors, make sure you conduct your research.

OEM Vs. OE Parts

OE is an abbreviation for Original Equipment Manufacturing, the same as “OEM.” Both OE and OEM components are equivalent since they are manufactured following exact requirements. The only difference is that a different company manufactures the OE components.

Consider an OEM automobile component for a Mercedes made in-house by the firm. The OE variation of the same element might come from a Mercedes-licensed auto parts subcontractor, such as Hella Behr.

The genuine Mercedes logo will have the same build quality and dependability as the original product. OE spares are often less expensive than OEM spares.

OEM Vs. Aftermarket Parts

Aftermarket components are produced by firms that are not affiliated with the OEM. Various companies are active in manufacturing aftermarket replacements for OEM spares, particularly in the automobile sector. 

Moreover, aftermarket components have a lot of appeal since they may be up to 60% less expensive than OEM or OE parts. However, that cost comes with significant drawbacks regarding quality and dependability.

OEM/OE spares from various vendors will provide a comparable degree of dependability. However, you do not have this warranty with aftermarket components. There are many possibilities from obscure producers with wildly varying quality.

Some high-priced aftermarket solutions provide performance and durability equivalent to OEM parts. Unfortunately, this is an exception rather than the rule. The great majority of low-cost replacements have a short guarantee and are of poor quality.

It is preferable to use OEM/OE components for essential purchases.

How are OCM and OEM Parts Similar?

OCM components are another sort of named part that appears, particularly in foodservice maintenance. Components distributed through equipment manufacturer networks and authorized service providers are generally known as OCM (Original Component Manufacturer) or direct source parts. 

These are the identical parts used in the original equipment. It implies that referring to a component as an OCM part is practically synonymous with referring to it as an OEM or OE part.

OCM components are also known as original parts. In many circumstances, the term “original parts” refers to OER components (original equipment replacement parts) and may not be identical to OEM parts.

Why are OEM Products Less Costly?

OEM products are often less expensive due to economies of scale. Because the firm collaborates with others to produce huge quantities, both the price and the manufacturing time significantly decrease. 

When you buy a product from an OEM, you should always double-check what you’re buying. While the goods are less expensive and provide the same features and performance, you may not receive some “extras” such as tech support, generally handled by a retail business.

What are Genuine Parts?

Genuine components are typically leftovers from previous production runs. The OEM packages and resells them as replacement components.

Genuine replacement or genuinely made components vary slightly from genuine parts. Genuine replacement parts are typically available after a product’s production run. But they are not leftover components.

They are usually the same or equivalent to the original OEM components. Usually, they’re manufactured by the same OEM parts source.

Genuine replacement parts, in many aspects, are similar to any other spare parts. They are supplied by the maker of the original finished product. Even if they are not identical, they are more likely to be of the same quality as OE components.

Benefits of Purchasing OEM Products

There are some across-the-board benefits you will have when you buy OEMs. These include:

Good Quality

An OEM product is the same as the original manufacturer’s product. Although there are less expensive alternatives, the price of the OEM product reflects its quality.

Durability

Such things are often not just of high quality but also long-lasting. For example, when purchasing a spare tire, an OEM tire is usually preferable to an aftermarket tire since one can be sure of the materials utilized in its manufacture.

Lifespan

OEM parts often last longer than aftermarket parts. They are also designed to fit with the end product from the start.

Move Forward with OEM Manufacturers

Do you need manufacturing services but don’t know where to look? Relax! Our OEM platform Shield Works is here to help you get started.

Now that you know what OEM manufacturers do, check out the rest of our blog to learn more about how we can help your business. Or, get in contact with us today to get cracking on your manufacturing needs.

5 Benefits of Using OEM Manufacturing You Need to Know

Are you looking for manufacturing services but aren’t sure where to turn? Electronics companies and more usually outsource their manufacturing to expert facilities that engineer their products with precision. In a computer or smartphone, every component has to be carefully constructed to create a positive end user experience. There isn’t much room for error. Because of this, brands often turn to OEM manufacturing to create their components to get the best possible quality and safety for their products.

OEMs, or original equipment manufacturers, don’t just work in the electronics industry, however. Besides OEM phone manufacturers and PC manufacturers, you can find companies producing all kinds of consumer products. Practically any business can utilize OEM manufacturing and enjoy its many benefits in their field.

Best of all, when you turn to OEM for your manufacturing needs, you get the same quality and reliability that top brands rely on.

Some businesses turn to other types of manufacturing: aftermarket manufacturers or value-added resellers. These alternatives work well in the industries where they excel. But nothing compares to the precision and service offered by top OEM manufacturers, whether your company produces business electronics or consumer products.

If you want to better understand the benefits of using OEM, then you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for the top five benefits of OEM manufacturing.

1. Reliable Quality

Earlier, we mentioned aftermarket manufacturers and value-added resellers as being alternatives to OEM. But neither option provides the same level of customizability or support that OEM offers.

Aftermarket manufacturers make parts that are meant to imitate OEM-manufactured components. This often comes at a cost, as aftermarket parts are often low-quality compared to OEM parts. Aftermarket manufacturers are also limited in the level of customization they can provide to their customers.

Value-added resellers take OEM parts from other manufacturers and enhance them. They do this by adding new features and capabilities with additional components.

While VARs fill an important role in the market, they’re limited by the availability of OEM parts. VARs don’t create entirely new components from scratch, which can hold some businesses back.

As their name implies, original equipment manufacturers specialize in manufacturing brand-new parts based on original designs. This means they’re capable of building necessary components from scratch. It also makes OEM manufacturers well equipped to provide remarkable levels of customization to their customers.

OEM companies work directly with their customers. Because of this, they’re better prepared to produce products that perform exactly as their customers need them to. This often leads to sturdier, longer-lasting parts than aftermarket manufacturers can provide.

Best of all, the best OEM manufacturers are constantly working to improve the quality of their products.

2. Competitive Pricing

One of the highlights of OEM manufacturers in the competitive prices they offer. Despite providing excellent support and service, manufacturing parts with an OEM is well within the budgets of most businesses.

While aftermarket parts are sometimes cheaper, their low prices often come at the cost of both quality and customization. And when you buy OEM parts in bulk, you can save even more. You may even match the prices of top aftermarket manufacturers.

3. Faster Production

You probably wouldn’t expect the production of physical parts to happen very quickly, but with an OEM, production times can be short. OEM manufacturers try to keep designs on hand for as many parts as possible, including older parts no longer in production. This means they can often find blueprints for needed parts immediately and start production right away.

What about when existing designs for necessary components aren’t available? OEMs offer quick turnaround, even when working with original designs from their customers.

OEM companies know they exist within a highly competitive market. They’re careful to make sure their customers are satisfied with their services.

4. Excellent Support

OEM manufacturers work directly with their customers. When you contact your manufacturer, you have the opportunity to speak with an engineer responsible for your product. This means OEM customers have a wide range of technical and engineering support.

OEMs work closely with their customers to ensure each component works exactly as intended. Precise manufacturing is key, so manufacturers go above and beyond to meet customer demands.

Not only that, but OEM companies often offer excellent warranties on their products. If you should ever get a part with any defects, your manufacturer should make it right.

5. Return on Investment

The most important part of any business endeavor is getting a return on your investment. Original equipment manufacturers make it easier for businesses to turn a profit with their products.

OEM parts are specifically designed from the ground up to fit their applications. This means the functionality and lifespan of OEM products are usually excellent. As a result, businesses working with an OEM can expect to save money and reduce downtime in the long run.

Most importantly, your own customers will be far more likely to have a good experience with your products.

Get Started With OEM Manufacturing From Shield Works

And there you have it: the top five benefits of OEM manufacturing, from quality to ROI. As you can see, a business can’t go wrong when choosing to work with any OEM manufacturer.

Not all OEMs are created equal, however. That’s why you should seek out the best, whether you need OEM barrel manufacturing or are looking for a great OEM PC manufacturer.

Whatever your OEM needs, Shield Works has your business covered with some of the best features and services in the industry. Contact us today, and let’s start taking your business to the next level.

OEM vs. ODM: Selecting Your Manufacturer in China

If you have decided to outsource production to China, you must find a reliable contract manufacturer to partner up with. They can make or break your business. During your search, you’ll come across the terms OEM and ODM. You must understand these unique business services before contacting a manufacturer. In this post, we evaluate OEM vs. ODM manufacturing to help you choose the right producer to meet your needs.

OEM vs. ODM Meaning: What is OEM Manufacturing?

The abbreviation OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. It means that the production factory manufactures products as per the design specifications provided by the original company. An OEM firm plays a purely manufacturing role in the supply chain, allowing both companies to benefit from their strengths.

In many cases, a firm doesn’t have the resources needed to produce high-volume or highly-specialized goods. Outsourcing production to an OEM company cuts down on costs.

The client usually commissions the supplier to manufacture parts, components, and subsystems according to their specifications. Once the components are delivered to the client, they go through assembly. The client affixes the finished product with the company trademark, and sells it on the market under their name, and at competitive prices.

Common product categories that benefit from OEM production include the automotive industry, electronics, ICT equipment, plastic parts, cosmetics, toys, and garments.

Advantages of OEM

Some of the benefits of OEM vs. ODM manufacturing include:

Cost-Effective Products

The cost of producing components is highly competitive due to the economies of scale. Streamlined processes, large volumes, and efficient supply chains in countries like China make OEM components quite cheap. This translates to higher profit margins, increased sales, and more revenue.

Specialized Technology

Don’t have the right equipment or expertise to create certain components? Take advantage of the specialized technology offered by OEM manufacturers to get it done. This access to better technology and expertise leads to quality products.

Intellectual Property Rights

OEM gives you complete control over the trademarks and intellectual property rights. This allows you a better bargaining position, which makes it easier if you ever need to switch suppliers.

Disadvantages of OEM vs. ODM Manufacturing

The main disadvantage is that there is a limited selection of OEM suppliers for specialized items. This doesn’t allow you a good opportunity to capitalize quickly on innovative or new products. Requesting product samples can help circumvent this issue.

Many OEM suppliers prefer dealing with companies that can create a lot of demand. As such, this may not be your ideal route if you can’t sell goods fast.

There is also the risk of infringement of your intellectual property rights. The designs you create for components could be sold to competitors.

You cannot rely on OEM suppliers to troubleshoot or correct any faulty designs as they manufacture products based solely on the data you provide.

OEM vs. ODM Meaning: What is ODM Manufacturing?

The abbreviation stands for Original Design Manufacturer and refers to companies that design and manufacture products. The products are then sold to other companies, which rebrand and market them as their own.

ODM manufacturers produce goods in bulk. This allows smaller companies to benefit from the expertise of the manufacturing firm and economies of scale.

ODM companies are categorized under White Label & Private Label Production. White label suppliers distribute generic finished products to different retailers who sell them as their own. Private labeling firms sell finished products exclusively to a particular retailer.

Product categories that benefit heavily from ODM manufacturing include cosmetics, food, electronic cigarettes, consumer electronics, medicine, and clothing. Many supermarkets with their range of basic items share the same ODM supplier.

Advantages of ODM Manufacturing

Top benefits of manufacturing ODM vs OEM you should consider include:

Speeds Things Up

ODM companies don’t have to worry about researching, developing, and testing a product. They already did that a long time. All they have to worry about is rebranding an already made product to be uniquely linked to your firm.

Cheaper than Manufacturing Your Products

Designing and testing the effectiveness of a product requires capital and time. Partnering with an ODM manufacturer saves that much more money and allows you time to focus on the core aspects of your business.

Reliable and Tested Products

Depending on how complicated a product is, certification is required before it goes to market. ODM manufacturers handle all the quality inspections and testing and obtain product certifications long before you place your order.

Disadvantages of ODM Manufacturing

Working with an ODM manufacturer makes it difficult to stand out from the competition. The same product you purchase will be sold to other companies, with minimal variations. Unless you get creative with marketing or are a well-known brand, your product will get lost in the crowd.

If you do manage to kill it in sales and customers request an upgrade, convincing your ODM supplier to help you will be tough. Many ODMs aren’t quick to develop new products, especially if it calls for a partial or full redesign.

The intellectual rights belong to your supplier. As such, you’ll never have complete control over any legal decisions regarding the product, or who else the supplier sells to.

ODM vs OEM Manufacturing: What’s Right for Me?

The main difference between OEM vs. ODM lies in the approach to product development. This poses obvious implications for you as an importer in terms of lead time, IP ownership, and costs. Let’s take a closer look at a comparison between the two:

  • There is no difference in price per unit
  • Product development takes 1-8 months in OEM and 1-4 weeks in ODM
  • Injection molds and tooling is paid for by OEM buyers and ODM supplier
  • Both offer mass production
  • The buyer provides the product design in OEM while ODM manufacturers handle product design
  • OEM buyers and ODM suppliers own the intellectual property rights

Whether working with an ODM or an OEM works for you depends on your product, market, and goals.

OEM vs. ODM: Contact Shield Works to Learn More

Whatever your business model, outsourcing production can improve the efficiency of your supply chain and spark business growth.

Shield Works provides reliable precision assembly services that you can rely on for increased output and enjoy the benefits of product assembly in China. Contact us today to learn more about OEM vs. ODM manufacturing.

The Ultimate Guide to Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM)

If you work in an industry that deals with physical devices, you understand how each part needs to function properly for the product to be a success. The average vehicle, for instance, has about 30,000 parts, and each one is important for the car to work. That is why knowing how each component is produced is vital to the overall quality of the machine. If you are unfamiliar with original equipment manufacturing (OEM) and its many benefits, keep reading.

The information below will explain the distinctions between OEMs and their alternatives. It will give you a sense of how your business will profit from these components and why you should find reputable manufacturers to work with.

What Is OEM Manufacturing?

Original equipment manufacturing (OEM) refers to the production and sale of products directly to customers. This means that the components of a product are manufactured for that machine and its uses. The automotive and electronics industries are some common industries where you will find OEM parts.

There is a distinction between OEMs and ODMs, which are original design manufacturers. ODMs created the design and specifications of a product. OEMs, by comparison, do not have to be the original designers but must be licensed to produce them using the original specifications.

OEM Alternatives

Aftermarket manufacturers make parts that are meant to look and function like OEM parts. They are often cheaper, although there are some deficits, including diminished quality, that come with the lower price tag.

There are exceptions to this. Some aftermarket parts can enhance performance. These are most common in the automotive industry. A good example is custom vehicle floor mats or upgraded stereo equipment.

It is worth noting that these are more the exception than the rule. And, even with these products, it is difficult to be certain of the heightened quality and performance.

There is a third option: value-added resellers (VAR). These are businesses that use OEM parts but incorporate different features and functions.

VARs and OEM parts manufacturers have a mutually beneficial relationship. VARs help sell OEM parts, and OEM manufacturers supply the parts for upgrade.

OEM Manufacturing Benefits

There are many advantages to purchasing OEM parts. Here are a few major ones to consider.

Better Quality

OEM companies work directly with customers. This means they are better situated to produce a product that performs the way you need it to. OEM manufacturers are much more likely to be able to customize parts for you.

OEM manufacturers make parts for their intended uses. So, you can expect them to function better and last longer than aftermarket ones. For this reason, you will find more comprehensive warranties with OEM parts.

OEMs will have higher quality standards than aftermarket companies. That is because they know that cheaper alternatives are available.

Since OEM companies are not trying to “fill a gap,” they are always improving the quality of their products. This means that the parts you buy from them tomorrow will be better than the ones they made today. This evolution in quality is not always present in aftermarket companies.

Competitive Cost

While aftermarket parts are often touted as cheaper alternatives, many OEM manufacturers can provide better pricing, especially with bulk orders. That is due to economy-of-scale production that is not achievable by aftermarket companies.

While aftermarket parts can be cheaper, you may be “rolling the dice” when it comes to value. With OEM parts, you can be more assured that you are getting what you pay for.

Also, the longer lifespan of OEM parts can more than offset any cost savings from cheaper parts that break down more often. Depending on your industry, this also can translate to thousands of dollars in savings due to avoided downtime.

You may find higher installation costs associated with aftermarket parts as well. Since they are not made to original specifications, there is no guarantee that you can incorporate them with the same ease as OEM parts.

Quicker Production

Faster turn-around is one of the biggest advantages of using OEM. That is because you are buying directly from the manufacturer and cutting out the “middle man.” An aftermarket company will take longer to identify the part and ensure they have it in stock.

OEM companies are more likely to have older parts as well. It is common for OEMs to have a more expansive storage capacity than smaller manufacturers.

Aftermarket companies often produce components to fill a need for a limited time. But OEM manufacturers are better situated to retain designs and production methods for older products. This can be a huge advantage if you need specific components that are otherwise no longer available.

Better Support Services

You can expect OEM companies to provide superior engineering and technical support. They will have unique knowledge about their products. That is because they are involved in everything from design to production and testing.

OEM companies can only exist if they are meeting the needs of their clients. They understand that alternatives are available and will do everything in their power to provide a quality product that works as intended.

Establishing a relationship with an OEM company will guarantee that, should products not meet your expectations, they will do everything they can to make it right. This can afford peace of mind that is not achievable with alternative product manufacturers.

Find Original Equipment Manufacturing Parts for Your Business

Now that you have an idea of what original equipment manufacturing entails and what the benefits are, you can decide on products that meet your manufacturing needs. Be sure to find a reputable manufacturer that can meet your product demands and offer superior support and customer service.

Shield Works provides customized OEM manufacturing, assembly, and warehousing solutions to clients around the world. We pride ourselves on open communication and services so that you will receive prompt communications and short lead times for product customization. Reach out today to learn more about our products and services.

How Does OEM Manufacturing Work?

OEM manufacturing is a part of most people’s lives, whether they realize it or not. 

The products that people use in their daily will have parts from OEM manufacturers. These include automobile, electrics, and computer software products that benefit from OEM manufacturers

In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into the world of OEM manufacturing. So take a seat, buckle up, and enjoy the ride!

OEM Manufacturing 

An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is a company who manufactures parts to be used in another companies’ products. The purchasing company then sells the end product to the consumer. 

Take, for example, a car that’s driven daily. An OEM manufacturer is the one that manufactures parts such as the steering wheel or tires that are then assembled and sold to individuals. 

Traditionally, OEM manufacturers have only dealt with business-to-business transactions. Recently they have been selling directly to consumers with the help of the internet. Say an individual consumer wants to buy a graphics card. They can then purchase the graphics card directly from the OEM manufacturers or retailers with the OEM product in stock. 

Contract Manufacturing

Like OEM manufacturers, contract manufacturers also develop products based on their client’s designs. However, contract manufacturers have the added benefit if a company wishes to expand its range of products. 

A company looking to hire a contract manufacturer typically has a design or a formula for the product they want to sell to individual consumers. 

One example would be a cleaning supply company. They would hire a contract manufacturer to produce the product according to their design, then throw on a private label specific to them. 

Some contract manufacturers also provide warehousing options. This means that they can provide services including:

  1. Manufacturing the product
  2. Storing the product
  3. Labeling 
  4. Shipping directly to the consumer

In today’s globally connected world, the services above become a valuable part of any profitable business plan. 

Working together with a contract manufacturer has an added benefit – giving the business owner more time to focus on customers rather than worrying about their supply chain. 

Benefits of OEM Manufacturers

Working with an OEM Manufacturer in China has its advantages that blow its competition out of the water. Here are some of the most important.

Cost

Manufacturing in China has been a practice that is recognized not only in the U.S. but also globally. The main reason for the recognition is the significant decrease in production costs. The advantage is competitive pricing. This enables the selling company to decrease the product’s price while maintaining a higher profit margin. 

The competitive pricing that OEM manufacturers located in China provide makes working with them ideal. The higher overhead costs of domestic OEM manufacturers only lead to higher prices for both parties. 

Scale

The fact that OEM manufacturers in China produce goods for companies globally is a well-known fact. Due to the demand, these manufacturers can scale their production well beyond any domestic company for a fraction of the price. 

Limited storage space is a problem for many small business owners and companies. But it’s a problem that OEM manufacturers in China with warehousing services solve. Specifically, warehouses that can provide next-day shipping. 

Let’s say a company wants to expand its products or dip its toes into a new market. An OEM manufacturer in China or contract manufacturer can develop the product line for the company with a quick turnaround. 

Assembly

Several well-known companies contract out their production of parts to OEMs. However, they assemble their final product themselves. Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible or even profitable for smaller businesses. 

Contract manufacturers provide another solution to a problem here. Some contract manufacturers provide assembly services in addition to manufacturing, warehousing, and shipping. Thus, they are essentially an all-in-one shop. 

Quality

Some people tend to think that products made in China are of lower quality because the cost to produce is so low. That’s not the case whatsoever. 

A large majority of these OEM manufacturers have been implementing the same production process for decades. This makes them experts on that process. Many companies and small businesses make the costly mistake of attempting to produce a product on their own. That mistake doesn’t make sense when they have the option to contract an OEM manufacturer in China with decades of experience. 

Cost-Effectiveness

Another benefit we want to discuss also has to do with the cost-effectiveness of OEM manufacturers. For example, say a company wishes to produce its product domestically. 

This means that a large part of their investment will have to go into the factory as well as the purchase of expensive equipment. It also includes the added cost of raw material prices fluctuating in the market. Yet, manufacturers in China can mitigate the risk. The OEMs lock in costs per unit over a fixed period. This protects them against fluctuations in currency and raw materials costs. 

Disadvantages of OEM Manufacturers

Working with OEM manufacturers is not all roses and sunshine. However, the disadvantages discussed below can be avoided with proper research.

The most apparent drawback of working with an OEM manufacturer overseas is the lack of complete control over the final product. The lack of total control can be mitigated by building a relationship with the manufacturer. This entails clear, consistent communication from both parties. 

An international agreement entails two different legal systems. Before signing a contract, a company must understand which legal system the contract falls under. 

In addition, culture and language differences are also a cause for concern for many business owners. 

Despite the disadvantages, companies looking to work with an overseas OEM manufacturer can avoid the risks. Proper research is a vital step towards a fruitful relationship. 

Change the Game

Shield Works is a 100% British-owned and managed company headquartered in China with offices in the U.K. and the U.S. 

We are the one-stop-shop for all your OEM manufacturing needs. We provide a range of services, including assembly, manufacturing, warehousing, or management needs. That’s in addition to any other custom services you require. To better serve our clients, we leverage our C2W membership to provide supply chain services as well.  

Get in contact with us to change the game. 

What Are the Benefits of OEM Manufacturing: Your Ultimate Guide

Have you ever received parts for your equipment and products that don’t work as expected? This is a common problem businesses face when they don’t partner with an OEM manufacturing company.

Choosing aftermarket products to save money will end up costing you more in the end. Parts will fail, take longer to ship, and don’t meet the required specifications of your products.

OEM manufacturing, however, delivers quality parts designed to fit your equipment and products. Every product you receive will work as expected and comes with additional warranties and support.

Do you want to invest in long-lasting parts guaranteed to work with your products? Check out these benefits of OEM manufacturing.

What is OEM Manufacturing?

When you see OEM manufacturing on an item, it stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. An OEM manufacturer is a company that produces original products or parts to a product. Another company purchases the OEM parts and products to use in their products or sell to buyers under their branding.

The companies reselling the OEM parts are Value-Added Resellers or VARs. The VAR sells OEM products with added features to enhance its benefits. VARs and OEMs have a mutually beneficial relationship. 

Your car is a perfect example of an OEM and VAR relationship. The brand of the car is the VAR but they don’t manufacture every part of their vehicles. An OEM company manufactures these parts, such as the tires, seat belts, or the car battery.

OEM Manufacturing Benefits

Working with an OEM manufacturing partner guarantees the products you buy are high-quality and will properly fit in your products. Some aftermarket companies may offer similar parts but they may not fit nor offer the same compatibility.

Here are a few reasons why you need to work with an OEM original manufacturer.

Faster Response

When you need a specific part for a project or as a replacement, ordering from your top OEM manufacturers will take less time. There’s no “middle-man” as you can directly order parts from the OEM manufacturer.

Working with a third-party distributor, broker, or aftermarket company will take significantly longer. These companies may take longer to identify the part and determine whether they have a particular part or product in stock. In other cases, it will take longer for them to locate it in their storage warehouse since they distribute other products as well.

Reputable OEM manufacturers take pride in delivering their products as quickly as possible. Many monitor their delivery methods to ensure your receive your parts and products on time.

Additional Support

OEM manufacturers offer superior support when it comes to ordering or asking questions about a specific part or product you’ve ordered in the past. This is because the original engineers are a part of the OEM manufacturing company. You have access to engineering and technical support directly from the engineers.

OEM manufacturers have the greatest knowledge base of their products. They designed and crafted their products to fit a specific need or needs. From there, they tested the products to ensure they meet requirements and to find out their limitations.

OEM manufacturers know their products best. You’ll receive the most accurate information and answers to your questions directly from the source.

Quality Products

OEM manufacturers take pride in the products they create and place their name on every part and product. The OEM’s pride and confidence translate into high-quality products. OEM manufacturing companies work directly with their customers to ensure their parts fit their customers’ needs perfectly.

The success of an OEM manufacturing company largely depends on keeping their customers satisfied. Their parts and products need to continuously meet their customers’ expectations. Failing to do so can result in lost customers and a loss in sales.

What do you do if you need a part or product replaced? OEMs offer replacements that are identical, if not better, than the original part. OEMs craft their parts to meet the original part’s specifications and compatibilities.

Warranties

Parts and products manufactured by an OEM company come with a manufacturer’s warranty. This is also true for replacement parts—an advantage you can’t always get with any aftermarket company or distributor. Many OEMs will happily replace parts and offer a warranty on the replacement parts as well.

If you find a component or product has flaws, you can contact the source and request a new one. Again, OEMs value their customers’ satisfaction and are happy to help your business with any issues you may run into.

Added Value and a Longer Lifespan

OEM manufacturers like Shield Works, craft parts that are identical to the parts before. New and improved pieces meet the same specifications ensuring they offer the same performance as before.

Any spare parts offered by an OEM manufacturer will outlast and outperform any aftermarket product. OEMs use high-quality materials and regularly test all of their products for durability and reliability.

Opting for an aftermarket part or product may have cheaper upfront costs but the cost of installation and running the part will cost you more. These parts are likelier to fail and possibly damage your equipment. An aftermarket part won’t have the same specifications, warranties, and lifespan as OEM products.

A Greater Return on Investment

Partnering with an OEM manufacturing company will offer you a greater return on investment. You can order custom manufactured parts better suited for your products and equipment. Since OEM parts must meet specific requirements and specifications for your products, they’ll improve the longevity of your equipment. This level of reliability and longer lifespan will save you money and time.

OEM manufacturers look to and prepare for tomorrow meaning they’re continuously looking for ways to improve their products to better fit their clients’ needs. Working with an OEM manufacturing company will give your company and equipment an edge over the competition.

OEMs can make more accurate improvements to their parts as they already have the knowledge, design plans, molds, and testing of their current products. OEM clients can enjoy newer technology and upgrades to parts faster.

Shield Works OEM Manufacturing Is Right For You

OEM manufacturing companies believe in crafting strong business-customer relationships by offering unparalleled expertise and high-quality products. OEMs take the time to understand your business and your needs to ensure you receive the best service and products for your company.

Do you have a project you want to share? Let us know. We have the experience, knowledge, and skills to make your next big project a success!