What to Look for in a Manufacturer
There has never been a better time to outsource production to an overseas firm but with all the search results it can be difficult to know where to look or even what to look for. Outsourcing mass production is a big business decision and it’s important to make the right decision the first time. To help you choose the right manufacturer for your mass production project here is a list of the biggest things to look for in a manufacturer before outsourcing:
Company Image
Companies who take pride in their product will also take pride in their appearance. A modernized, engaging website with clear, intelligible language is an immediate indicator of professionalism. Be wary of manufacturers who have broken or unintelligible language, confusing or missing contact information, or stock photos in place of actual company photos. If the face of the company does not make you feel confident about their capabilities, keep looking.
Communication
If you outsource a project overseas you’re going to want to be updated on it. If communication starts out slow or confusing it will likely get only more complicated from there. A professional manufacturer will provide clear contact information and reply to you in a timely manner, with clarity. The right manufacturer is one who gets to know you, responds to your inquiries, and keeps you updated on the progress of your project.
Quality
A manufacturer should be more than happy to show you their factory, offices, and some past projects to demonstrate what they can do for you. If a shipping container of 10,000 units arrives and they aren’t up to specification, the costs and delays could cripple an organization. Take the time to verify where your manufacturer sources their materials and that they fully understand your product design and company message. A great manufacturer will be concerned more about the relationship and quality of service than the quantity of pieces ordered.
History
Some organizations put on a great first impression but after a little digging there is no company history available. Like any business owner, manufacturers are proud of where they came from and how they came to compete at the level they do today. Companies with hidden or missing histories should be avoided. You have every right to ask potential manufacturers about their organization before committing to a professional relationship.
Location
The company you choose is very important but equally so is the country they do business in. Different countries have different visa and customs laws, can be unsafe to travel to, or have extensive shipping delays. To make your outsourcing project as smooth as possible, look for an organization with positive political relations, no travel restrictions, similar commercial culture, and a low crime rate. If you need to travel to your manufacturer you will want to avoid danger, extra costs, and delays while still feeling comfortable and focused on your project.
Outsourcing mass production is a weighty decision but with a little research you can find the right manufacturer for your project. Expedient, cost-effective mass production can move your organization to the next level of success. Whether you’re outsourcing production for a single part or for an order of 1,000,000, we care about your project. Contact us today – we’d love to share with you our history, vision, and how we can make your project a reality.
