Posts Tagged ‘Product Assembly’
7 Benefits of Working with China Manufacturers You Must Know
Deciding whether to outsource your manufacturing to China can be an overwhelming process, but there are many reasons to choose China as your manufacturing hub. Here are five of the most important benefits you should consider before making a decision.
Lower Costs Than Western Counterparts
One of the primary benefits of outsourcing your manufacturing to China is the lower labor costs.
Besides having fewer overhead costs, Chinese facilities also have lower training costs. In order to cover these costs, domestic manufacturing facilities must set aside a significant amount of money.
Businesses of all types outsource instead, as wages in China are also lower than in the United States.
When you outsource, you can spend less per dollar, so you can reap the benefits that can come from using Chinese product assembly. Keep this in mind when you are considering moving forward.
Larger Production Volume
A business does not necessarily need to manufacture thousands of products in one order. However, in some cases, large organizations often have a hard time locating a domestic facility that can meet their bigger-than-normal needs.
This means that China has typically built facilities that are able to produce large volumes of goods for many different countries. Even an average Chinese factory can outperform the vast majority of western facilities.
When it comes to companies that require a massive supply of their product, there is no better alternative than outsourcing to China. In many cases, it is also the only way to meet your goals.
Diversified Production
To long-term success, scaling your business may be needed.
This can happen in a variety of ways. For example, you might add a new product line to generate additional revenue.
One option would be to find growth opportunities in one of China’s developing markets. That way, you can use them to establish a niche in your business. Designing new products is one of the key ways in which they help.
Choosing a Chinese OEM plant, in some cases, might give you an edge over your competition.
Flexibility of Product Design
Domestic facilities usually cannot adjust their design at your behest because it could take them days or weeks to actually put them into practice.
You may have to change the way you do business to sell a more desirable product if you don’t have high enough sales numbers. Adding to this, delayed orders because of design changes also carry the risk of your customers turning to competitors.
It is our understanding that Chinese manufacturers are ready to implement any changes required of them. As for you, all you need to do is contact the representatives from your company and describe the alterations that you need.
The manufacturer will typically make revised products as soon as possible after you inform them of your change, which is an important consideration as it will affect your brand’s reputation.
IP Protection
Many people are unaware that many Chinese factories prioritize intellectual property protection.
This means they make sure you don’t end up in legal trouble by avoiding any form of infringement. To illustrate, suppose you sell a product that is extremely similar to that of your competitor.
As with any other manufacturing industry, there are shady facilities that engage in such tactics. A reputable factory in China will make sure that there is no copying or reverse engineering going on.
It is good news that you can research the reputation of your prospective factory before choosing to work with them. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a situation that is difficult to remedy.
Efficiency
China’s factories are capable of mass production, and it is a simple matter for them to do so with remarkable speed.
These new and efficient facilities can meet any production standard. This will allow smaller organizations to compete with larger ones.
Many small businesses can’t keep up with the production rates of large corporations. Without the help of the right manufacturers, these businesses will never be competitive.
Tips of Finding The Factory Right for You?
It can be difficult to find a reliable Chinese manufacturer for all sorts of reasons, like time zone challenges and language barriers. With the help of a professional, you will be able to get a firm grasp on which factory is best for your company.
You’ll find that they are a go-between who has contacts at the other party’s end. That way, they’ll be able to work out the finer points and make agreements without you even needing to intervene.
You can take a look at this resource to find out how you can use this to your advantage.
We Are You Go-To Option
With the above information in mind, you can be sure that you are deciding the right course of action for your company.
From here, you’ll be able to employ Chinese manufacturing for appropriate businesses. Want to learn more about Shield Works with 17 years of China manufacturing experience? Please get in touch with us today and see how we can help.
The Risks of Outsourced Manufacturing: What You Need to Know
When you outsource your manufacturing, you’re trusting someone else to handle the job of turning your idea into a tangible product. While this usually works out well and can bring significant cost savings to your company, there are risks involved with outsourcing that you should keep in mind as you consider outsourcing as an option for your business or organization. Read on to learn about some of the most common risks of outsourcing manufacturing and how to avoid them so that you can maximize your benefits and minimize your costs.
Supplier Risk
Direct arrangements with suppliers from any industry come with risks. However, the risk is greater when buying from an international supplier. Prior to outsourcing, you must conduct a thorough investigation.
Then, you need to conduct a thorough risk assessment using the possible markets and suppliers. Identify any potential issues with the provider’s possible suppliers.
It must include the supplier’s operations, quality, leadership, and labor. Check to see if their track record lives up to their promises.
By doing so, you will avoid disruptions caused by your supplier failing to follow through. You can also ask other helpful businesses who have used your potential supplier. As soon as you make your decision, you’ll gain insight into working with them.
Quality Assurance
The lead time, as a result, for transporting products is longer compared to domestic sources, if product failure occurs from an international source, which can cost you suffer severe business disruptions.
If the problems get severe, it can take months to resolve them. To mitigate this risk, you need to prepare detailed product specifications for your sources. You’ll periodically perform independent quality control inspections.
You may lose your reputation if your product quality declines. Avoid this by observing the manufacturing process for a few weeks. It is cheaper and ensures quality, so it’s better than having to recall a product.
Intellectual Property Protection
Don’t share sensitive information with your outsourced manufacturers until you check their origin country and their intellectual property rights. Otherwise, your proprietary information might be leaked.
In cases like this, IP laws are more relaxed in the manufacturer’s country. Depending on the product, you may find it better not to outsource anything. If your product undergoes regular updates, however, this might not be an issue.
You might overlook patent protection if you think you can produce better items faster and with better quality. This can happen when you pump out new products faster than the market can handle.
Transportation and Delivery
Outsourcing to a foreign service is tricky if you don’t take it one step at a time. If you do it poorly, the delivery will be delayed.
A common timeline for ordering and receiving your product should be important to your outsourced manufacturer. Think about whether they can meet a timeline for production. In case the total is greater than it has been, you must work to make the customer’s expectations fit reality.
One may also look for a workaround to restore the time to its correct place. Otherwise, you may accidentally erase all your work. Given the importance of this issue to customers, we’ll need to keep it at the forefront of our priorities.
Sourcing Labor
This type of conversation doesn’t happen as often, but when it does, it can hurt your brand. Make and fulfill your products with a manufacturer that follows humane standards.
It is especially important when it comes to labor laws and other relevant guidelines for employee safety that your manufacturer’s guidelines match your own country’s. It is your responsibility as well as your outsourced help to adhere to ILO guidelines if your country is a member.
Weather
Despite how it might seem, what your manufacturer does in relation to the weather can affect how it’s perceived. A rough bout of weather can lead to various delays. Doing so puts your brand in a negative spotlight because it has to be revealed what your labour force looks like.
How well your supply chain holds up to weather-related crises can affect your reputation, as well. Though they’re flawed, it’s not always best to steer clear of your brand name. As a result, you must put it before anything else.
Should You Outsource Manufacturing?
If your company is not ready for outsourcing, you should weigh the benefits of this decision. A number of benefits are available to you.
You will cut your spending as well as boost the productivity of your business by doing so. Popular demands are produced by many companies.
Additionally, you’ll avoid every aspect of manufacturing bureaucracy. It’s what slows businesses down, especially in countries with strict regulations.
Invest in Outsourced Manufacturing Today
While there are risks involved, partnering with an outsourcing manufacturing company can be helpful in boosting your business productivity. The first step is to find a reputable manufacturer. Use this advice to find the best provider.
Have you been considering manufacturing internationally? If so, please get in touch with Shield Works and we’ll talk about how our 17 years of outsourced manufacturing can help your business thrive!
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!
Product Assembly in China: 5 Tips to Make Your Assembly Project More Efficient
Outsourcing product assembly to China has helped many Western companies expand their market reach and maintain competitive pricing.
It’s a simple yet effective process for those who want to increase productivity without breaking the bank or spending too much time waiting for shipment deliveries.
Do you take efficiency into account when planning to assemble a product? To improve your abilities at assembling products in China, here are five tips for business owners to keep in mind. Let’s get started.
1. Avoid Intellectual Property (IP) Theft
First off, as a brand owner, it is imperative to always keep your intellectual property (IP) intact. If this leaks out of course there will be legal action taken against you and it becomes a difficult process.
To ensure you’re making the right decisions when it comes to choosing an assembly partner and avoiding IP theft, do some research on how trademarks and patents work in China. Then find a supplier with a good reputation and a proven track record for helping other businesses succeed.
We also highly recommend having your chosen assembly partner sign NNN (Non-Disclosure, Non-Use, and Non-Circumvention) agreements to protect your confidentiality like product details, drawings, marketing strategies, etc.
If your potential assembly partner has any issues signing these agreements, then this should be a red flag and you may need to look for alternative options. Because if anything goes wrong with your IP rights, then that becomes an extremely difficult problem to deal with and you’ll have to postpone your assembly project.
2. Pay Attention to the Lead Time
Lead time is the period of time between an order being placed and the final product being received. The short lead time means the faster you can get the products.
As the old saying goes, time is money. Reducing lead time is an important goal when making products in China. There are many benefits to this activity such as:
- Outpace your competition
- Lower additional costs like warehousing costs and logistics costs
- Quicker replenishment of stock to avoid stockouts and backorders
So, when you plan to start your product assembly project in China, you have to ask your service provider about the lead time before starting the project. If they refuse to offer an accurate reply, they may not have confidence in dealing with your project or would rather make false promises than get things done properly. In this case, communication is key. Try to keep everything clear, concise, and to the point, so it’ll be easier for both parties to understand without confusion.
Not only your customers will be happy to purchase and receive products in a timely fashion, but also you will be delighted with the short lead time. This is especially true for Amazon sellers who need to optimize their inventory performance so they can avoid being out of stock and having to pay high warehouse fees because they are running out of space.
3. Use Quality Control Services
Customers expect you to deliver high-quality goods that meet their needs. If they receive defective products that don’t meet these expectations, it will damage your company.
Therefore, you should consider quality control services.
Quality control is an important process aimed at ensuring that the product quality meets your requirements and standards.
By conducting quality control during or after the product assembly process, you can determine whether the defective rate is within an acceptable range, which is a good way to improve efficiency. Because this provides assurance to both your business and your customers and minimizes loss.
If the defective rate is too high that you can’t feed up with it, you should talk to your supplier if they can offer a solution before shipping out faulty products.
4. Streamline the Logistics
Logistics chains are a lot more complicated these days than they used to be.
More than one company is involved in any given shipment, not to make mention the number of distributors and points for unloading or reloading cargo.
Moreover, due to Covid-19, international freights are in shortage, and logistics fees are going up.
Manufacturing and trading companies are trying to accomplish every logistics mission from start to finish and aim to do so in the fastest and cheapest way possible.
At this point, to improve efficiency and maintain costs, you can consider ordering consolidation services instead of shipping all products on your own.
A consolidation service is ideal if you wish to have all your goods shipped together as a single international shipment to minimize your shipping costs.
5. Work with an Experienced Supplier
Now that you have a better understanding of how to improve efficiency when getting products assembled in China, it is time to take these factors into consideration before making your final decisions about who will be your best fit to deal with your project.
Finding a supplier to assemble your product is easy in China. However, looking for an experienced and reliable supplier is still a time-consuming job.
Take your time and reach out to suppliers who have dealt with similar projects before, so there are fewer chances for making mistakes. Focus on finding an assembly partner that can provide both efficiency and high-quality output.
Partnering with Shield Works, founded in 2020, as an offshoot of the British-owned and managed C2W Group located in the South China Greater Bay Area, things will be easier.
Whether you are an established brand or a new startup, Shield Works is a reliable and professional partner providing customized manufacturing and precision assembly for Western companies who are fed up with poor product quality, and lack of transparency, and are worried about reliability and delivery time from their Chinese suppliers.
We can build a tailor-made solution based on your situation to meet your standards and requirements. Start your journey by reaching out today to discuss your product and learn how we can help.
A Complete Guide to Choosing a Production Assembler
Did you know that 8% of startups fail due to poor product production? If you’re like most entrepreneurs, you’ve poured your heart and soul into designing and creating a product that you hope will be a big hit.
But even the best-designed products need to be manufactured properly in order to bring them to market, which is why finding the right production assembler is so important.
You could also outsource to an offshore manufacturer, which is always a great idea, however, finding the right production assembler is a critical step in your product’s lifecycle that you’ll need to ensure you’re paying special attention to.
Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on choosing a production assembler so that you’re able to reduce and control operating costs while improving the focus on core your business competencies.
What Is Production Assembly?
Before choosing the right product assembly services, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. So, what is production assembly and how does it relate to your business?
Production assembly is a process that involves putting together products from individual components. This can be done by hand or using machinery, and it often requires the use of tools and other machines.
The assembly process can vary depending on the product being made, but it typically involves several steps, such as installing or attaching parts, testing the fit and function of the product, and packaging the finished product.
Production assembly is a critical step in the manufacturing process, and it is often one of the most labor-intensive steps as well. As a result, it is important to carefully plan and execute the assembly process to ensure that products are made correctly and efficiently.
Why Hire a Production Assembler
You might be wondering why you should hire a production assembler. Why not just do it yourself with a local business or even let a member of your team do it? After all, it can’t be that difficult, right? Not so fast there.
There are a number of reasons why you should hire a professional production assembler. First, they have the experience and knowledge to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
And more importantly, they have the right tools and equipment to get the job done safely and correctly. They can also provide you with a warranty on their workmanship. And, in today’s day and age, that’s worth more than its weight in gold.
Finally, they will save you time and money in the long run. After all, you wouldn’t outsource your marketing work to a software developer. So why not entrust an experienced production assembly professional to help you with that process?
How Does Production Assembly Work
In short, a production assembler is usually part of a package deal that includes in-house customized precision assembly activities. However, this simply means they take care of all the production assembly for your business. This means that they will be responsible for putting together products, components, or parts in the most efficient way possible.
This could include anything from adding bubble wrap to the boxes or testing circuits. It truly all depends on what you need.
When it comes down to it, production assemblers are an important part of any business that relies on them to get products out the door and to customers as quickly as possible.
In order to be successful, production assembly teams need to be able to work quickly and efficiently while still ensuring that the final product is up to the company’s standards.
The process in general typically works by the types of assembly needed. For example, at Shield Works Precision Manufacturing, we offer:
- Mechanical Assembly Capabilities: This includes hardware assembly such as any tapping and drilling that needs to occur to get your product out
- General Product Assembly: From wood and metal to plastic and cardboard packaging, this service is designed for pretty much any product
- Electrical Assembly Capabilities: This service is designed more for those whose production assembly requires things like circuit testing or lifecycle testing
- Packaging Services: From adding bubble wrap, binding, and stuffing to shrink wrapping anything that needs to be shrink wrapped, this is usually the final step before shipment
What we’re really trying to say is that there are a variety of different production assembly services out there and the process looks different for each one.
The Benefits of Outsourcing Production
The globalization of the business world has led to a new era of outsourcing, and production assembly is one area that has seen a lot of growth in recent years.
There are several reasons why businesses choose to outsource this type of work, including cost savings, access to skilled labor, and increased efficiency.
Cost savings is often the primary motivator for companies that outsource production assembly. By moving production to a country with lower wages, businesses can reduce their overall costs.
This can be especially beneficial for companies that have high-volume or complex production needs. In addition, outsourcing can help businesses minimize the impact of fluctuating currency values, which is particularly relevant in today’s markets.
Access to skilled labor is another key advantage of outsourcing production assembly. In many cases, businesses that outsource their assembly work benefit from being able to tap into a larger pool of workers.
This can be especially helpful for businesses that have specific skill requirements for their assembly needs.
Additionally, outsourcing allows businesses to take advantage of specialized assembly services that might not be available in their home country.
Increased efficiency is another common reason why businesses choose to outsource production assembly. By working with a company that specializes in this type of work, businesses can often get their products assembled more quickly and efficiently.
How to Choose the Right Production Assembler for Your Business
You need a production assembler to help you put your product together. But with all of the different options out there, how do you know which one is right for your business? Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision.
Consider the Size of Your Business
The size of your business is an important consideration when choosing a production assembler. If you have a small business, you may not need the same level of automation that a large business requires.
For example, a small business might be able to get by with a manual assembly line, while a large business would need to invest in an automated assembly line. Consider the scale of your operations and choose a production assembler that can meet your needs.
Look at Experience
When you’re looking for a production assembler for your business, it’s important to consider experience. Look for someone who has worked in a similar industry and who has the skills necessary to put your products together quickly and efficiently.
It’s also important to find someone who is familiar with the assembly process and who can work independently. Furthermore, you’ll want to choose someone who is reliable and who will show up on time for each shift.
Look for someone who has a strong work ethic and who is detail-oriented. With the right production assembler on your team, you’ll be able to increase efficiency and improve your bottom line.
Get a Sense of Customer Service
Choosing a production assembler is a long-term commitment. Therefore, you want to enjoy the relationship! How responsive are they when you have questions or problems? How easy is it to get in touch with someone when you need them?
The better their customer service, the easier it will be to work with them on an ongoing basis.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Manufacturer
Before you choose a manufacturer, there are a few things you should keep in mind outside of the three points mentioned above.
First, consider the type of product you’re looking to have manufactured. Some manufacturers specialize in certain types of products, so it’s important to find one that has experience with the type of product you’re looking for.
Additionally, take into account the number of products you need. Some manufacturers have minimum order requirements, so be sure to find one that can accommodate your needs.
And, don’t forget to factor in the cost! You’ll want to find a manufacturer that offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.
Prefer to see things listed out easily for you to scan when choosing a manufacturer? When it comes down to it, here are three easy ways to start looking at potential production assembly partners:
- Cost: Obviously, the cost is a major consideration when choosing a manufacturer. You’ll need to get quotes from several different companies and compare prices. It’s also important to consider other costs, such as shipping and taxes.
- Quality: Another important factor to consider is quality. You’ll want to make sure that the products you’re getting from the manufacturer are of the highest quality. Be sure to ask for samples before making a final decision.
- Delivery Time: This ties into the number of products you need as you’ll have to consider how long it will take for the products to be delivered. If you need them quickly, you’ll need to find a manufacturer that can meet your timeline.
These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when choosing a manufacturer. By taking the time to do your research, you can be sure that you’re making the best decision for your business.
Additional Tips for Choosing a Manufacturer
We hope we’ve helped you understand how important it is to do your research when you’re looking for a manufacturer. If you’re still having trouble then here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Check out the facility. Is it clean and well-organized? This is a good sign that the manufacturer takes pride in their work.
- Ask about lead times. How long will it take for your order to be fulfilled? You don’t want to be left waiting months for your product.
- Get quotes from multiple manufacturers. This will give you a better idea of who is offering the best value for your money.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to find a manufacturer that meets your needs and expectations. However, be sure that they’re also helping you improve your bottom line.
Ultimately, we urge you to look for a company that is able to provide you with rapid, clear, and transparent communications throughout production along with full in-house quality control to internationally recognized standards.
If that’s what you’re looking for then we suggest you…
Consider Product Assembly Services With Shield Works
All in all, we’ve seen that the decision to outsource production assembly is often driven by the need to reduce costs. However, there are other benefits that can be achieved by outsourcing this activity.
From the ability to free up internal resources that can be better used elsewhere to accessing specialized expertise and equipment that would otherwise be unavailable, outsourcing production assembly is a great idea.
And, the benefits of choosing a production assembler in China are even more numerous, at least when you work with Shield Works Precision Manufacturing.
You’re able to enjoy the benefits of working with a 100% British team while still enjoying the ease and cost of being able to eliminate third-party QC man-day costs and strip away the layers from your supply chain.
Looking to launch a new product with assembly requirements or relocate your assembly from an existing China-based assembly house? Get in touch today!
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 Find the Right Facility for Your Precision Assembly Projects
Outsourcing has stayed popular through the upheaval of the pandemic, with roughly 300,000 jobs outsourced from the US every year. It’s a way for businesses to access global expertise and resources, all while cutting costs at home. And in an industry where cutting-edge technology is necessary to do the job right, it could change the game for your business.
With precision assembly, you need assembly services you can trust. Your standards need to be high, which can make finding the right services a real challenge.
If you’re struggling to find the right assembly service provider, have you considered outsourcing?
Keep reading, and we’ll tell you exactly what to look for when outsourcing your assembly work.
Why Outsource?
If outsourcing makes you nervous, don’t let it! There are plenty of great reasons to consider assembly outsourcing. Here are a few of the best.
Cut Costs
Across almost every industry, businesses cite this as their number one reason for outsourcing. When you outsource, you don’t have to pay full-time wages to employees at home. You only pay for exactly what you need, which means you can stick to a smaller and more manageable budget.
When outsourcing assembly work, you can also save money on the equipment and facilities you would otherwise need. Setting up a precision assembly facility can be difficult, expensive, and slow. But when you outsource, you gain access to existing facilities, along with workers who know exactly how to operate them.
Cutting-Edge Resources
Staying on top of new developments in technology can become expensive when you own your own assembly facility. But when you outsource, you don’t have to take responsibility for upgrading your equipment to the latest standards. Your new outsourcing partner will do that for you.
It’s in their interest to make sure their equipment and resources are up to the highest standards. Your business won’t be the only one they work with, so by making sure their facility is up to the minute, they’re ensuring that all the businesses they work for receive the best possible work. It’s also a great benefit to their reputation as they look to secure new outsourcing contracts.
Do What You Do Best
Outsourcing means that your business can focus on its core competencies, whatever that means for you. You can leave assembly in the hands of experienced professionals, while you dedicate your attention to sales, development, and marketing at home.
By freeing yourself up to do what you do best, you can ensure that your business delivers the best possible service. Meanwhile, you can trust that skilled experts in the industry will handle assembly. Some outsourcing partners may even take care of logistics, too.
What to Look For in Precision Assembly Services
If you think outsourcing might be right for you, it’s important to know what to look for as you search for the right service. Here are a few things to keep an eye on when weighing up potential new facilities.
Latest Technology
The techniques used in precision assembly are always evolving, and your facility needs to match its pace. Finding a facility that keeps its technology and equipment up to date can save you both time and money. It will prevent any delays caused by the need to upgrade equipment, meaning you can fulfill your orders on time.
Look for a facility that has proven expertise in the industry, but don’t stop there. You also need to make sure they have the means and the willingness to innovate. If your facility of choice knows of a more efficient way to get the job done, they should be prepared to tell you and apply it to your manufacturing process.
Design Skill
Does the facility you’re considering actually understand what you’re making? Can staff make adjustments to your designs as needed? If the answer to those questions is yes, you may have found a service you can trust.
This level of insight into your production shows real experience in machining and assembly, and it’s a good sign for your ongoing partnership. That expertise can also act as a great failsafe, increasing the likelihood that workers will catch any errors in the product designs before it’s too late.
Assembly Capacity
Can the facility really do what you’re asking it to do? Does it have enough staff, resources, and equipment to meet your production deadlines? And if you want to scale up in the future, will the facility be able to accommodate you?
Even at these early stages, it’s important to know the answers to these questions. Make sure you show facility managers your plans and timescales early, so they can be forthright with you about their capabilities. An overstretched facility can lead to delays, errors, and lost profit, so you could end up regretting it later if you don’t check now.
Willingness to Communicate
When you outsource, you’re trusting another company to carry out essential work on your behalf. Communication is a huge part of that trust, and so you need to be confident that you can reach facility experts and decision-makers whenever necessary.
With clear lines of communication in place, you’ll be able to communicate your needs from the very beginning of your project. That way, you can make sure the facility gets your project right on the first try.
Precision Assembly Outsourcing Made Easy
At Shield Works, we combine Western standards with Eastern innovation. We have 16 years of manufacturing and assembly experience in China, and we bring that long history of expertise to a wide range of projects – including precision assembly.
We’re committed to transparency, and we offer unprecedented insight into the day-to-day work of assembly. Our quality control is carried out to internationally recognized standards. Whatever your project needs, we’re prepared to go the extra mile to work with you.
Contact us today, and let’s talk about what we can bring to your precision assembly projects.
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!
Product Assembly In China: 5 Common Mistakes And How To Avoid
Today, overseas businesses of all sizes are outsourcing product assembly to Chinese companies as part of their overall outsourcing strategy.
There are many benefits to this approach, including reducing costs and improving efficiency. However, business owners should be prepared to work with Chinese suppliers who have different perspectives on product standards and quality control than what you may use before.
However, dealing with Chinese product assembly suppliers requires skills and experience. To reduce the number of assembly mistakes in your products, here are seven ways you can start reducing errors during the product assembly process.
Not Verifying The Supplier
Your customer satisfaction has a direct correlation with product quality. Yet, a lot of times companies don’t see mistakes or quality issues until it’s too late.
The biggest cause of product assembly errors is skipping over a supplier’s due diligence.
There are certain protocols every entrepreneur should follow when it comes to verifying suppliers, but one major aspect involves verifying their capabilities by checking their certifications and audit reports. Entrepreneurs should be sure they go through all available measures before accepting a quote from a prototyping manufacturer—doing so could save them from headaches down the road.
Only in this way can you confirm if your supplier owns their facilities or is a middleman.
Not Communicating Clearly
The assembly line is a huge component of manufacturing, and it’s where most errors occur.
It’s no surprise that misunderstandings often happen between Westerners and Chinese people. When you and your assembly partner aren’t on the same page, problems will undoubtedly arise.
In this case, it’s important to clarify expectations beforehand, anticipate problems before they arise, and encourage an open flow of communication so anything problematic can be taken care of sooner rather than later.
To avoid confusion, when communicating with your Chinese partner, you must be clear and concise in everything you say. You should try using brief words so that it will take less time for them to understand what you’re trying to convey.
Not Eliminate Unnecessary Processes
Although eliminating all manufacturing errors may not be a realistic option, you can eliminate non-essential processes during product assembly to reduce costs and timeframes.
This step is an easy one for some manufacturers—but for others, it’s something that must be worked toward over time.
A great way to start is by being honest with yourself about what processes are essential and which ones are not. You may be surprised by how much you can cut back without hurting quality.
Not Setting Up Sample Tests
On a product-assembly line, setting up sample tests can be run throughout each shift.
These tests can be used to test workers and catch problems before they result in big mistakes. Include enough checks and balances on each test that they’re impossible to fail without making an error.
For example, if assembly involves inserting a screw into an electrical component, include wire connectors on your sample piece so workers know what is correct for installation. If a worker tries to install it incorrectly, he or she will have to remove it and start over.
If you don’t include these extra components, there will be no way of knowing whether or not your worker did something wrong until after he or she has completed his or her work.
With sample tests, any errors will become apparent right away and can be corrected immediately—or prevented from happening at all—before they snowball into bigger issues later in production.
Not Conducting Product Inspection
As you may know, it’s impossible that there is zero defect in making and assembling the product.
And you may need to know what type of defect is in your product and how can it affect your product functionality.
By recognizing and fixing errors during assembly, you’ll maintain high product quality and reduce financial losses. The more you know, the more you can do to improve your product.
In this case, it’s a good idea to conduct an inspection to check the product quality for you. If you don’t, you’ll be accepting a level of risk that may not be necessary.
An experienced inspector can find the major defect in the product and write a detailed report, so you have no reason to worry about the customers complaining about the product quality.
The Solution For Your Assembly Project
Sometimes, finishing a product assembly project can seem like an insurmountable challenge.
If you are considering outsourcing your assembly and are unsure where to start, Shield Work is here to help you make this process easier.
We own an IP protection flagship facility to conduct activities from manufacturing, and product assembly to quality inspection and warehousing.
With our British ownership and management background, we take pride in our international experience and we know what works and what doesn’t! Contact us for a no-cost consultation!