Factory Sourcing: 10 Questions to Ask your Manufacturer

Choosing the right manufacturer is a key decision when launching a new product. Your choice of manufacturer can significantly impact your product's success. At RedMarble we're here to guide you through the manufacturer selection process. While some may explore options independently, many seek our advice and support.

To help inventors, startups, and established businesses avoid the challenges associated with selecting an unsuitable manufacturer, we've compiled a list of 10 essential questions to consider before making your choice.

1. Can you share your experience with my product type and materials?

Selecting a manufacturer specializing in your product category is crucial. Their in-depth understanding of potential production challenges will be invaluable. They will be well-versed in the materials, processes, and techniques necessary to manufacture your product efficiently.

For example, if you're developing a waterproof bag, various factors need consideration, including material selection, molding, and sealing techniques. A seasoned manufacturer will know how to navigate these aspects, preventing potential problems like leaks or material failures.

2. Could you provide examples of products from your manufacturing process?

It's advisable to request samples of the manufacturer's previous work to ensure they can produce the quality you require. It's even more vital to obtain samples from your product's production process and materials.

At RedMarble, we fine-tune your volume manufacturing run through a series of steps. One such step involves creating a Pre-Production Prototype using the manufacturing process which will be used for mass production to identify any potential risks.

You can also visit the factory, interact with your manufacturer, inspect the shop floor, review samples, and ask relevant questions. Our article "Bridging the Gap: Navigating Product Development in Asia" explains how having an on-site representative can expedite product delivery and ensure it meets your requirements.

3. Can you kindly share references for other products you've manufactured?

Obtaining references from a manufacturer's previous clients is beneficial for understanding their reputation, reliability, and work quality. You can reach out to these clients directly and inquire about their experiences, covering aspects like the manufacturer's communication, adherence to timelines, product quality, and overall satisfaction.

If direct references are unobtainable, thorough online research can serve as an alternative. This includes examining online reviews, comments, and feedback on various platforms, giving insights into their product’s quality and end user’s satisfaction.

4. What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ) and unit pricing?

Determine the manufacturer's minimum order requirement and confirm its feasibility for your business. Direct engagement with manufacturers often results in high costs for low-volume production runs for inventors and startups. In many instances, the manufacturer may refuse to work with you if the order quantity is too low.

Collaborating with an established partner on the ground can provide leverage during negotiations on minimum order quantity pricing.

5. Could you tell us about your manufacturing production capacity?

Manufacturer production capacity refers to the number of products a manufacturer can produce within a specific time frame. This can be measured in units per day, week, or month, or by the total production time required for a certain number of units.

Several factors can affect this capacity, such as the type of equipment and machinery available, the availability of raw materials and components, the workforce's skill set, and the efficiency of the manufacturing process.

Understanding a manufacturer's production capacity is vital when considering a partnership. It allows you to assess whether they can meet your production needs and aids in better planning.

6. Could you describe your manufacturing quality control process?

Quality control in manufacturing is a set of steps and procedures that a manufacturer implements to ensure their products meet certain quality standards. This process includes inspection and testing of production materials and components, overseeing the manufacturing process, and testing the final product before shipping it off to customers.

The specific measures in a quality control process can differ based on the manufacturer and the product in question. However, some common steps are:

• Initial inspection of raw materials and components to verify they meet the necessary specs

• Mid-production inspection of products to confirm they're being built to the right standards

• Final check of finished products before shipping to ensure they satisfy all requirements

• Performance and safety testing of finished products

• Maintaining detailed records of all inspections and tests for traceability and accountability.

The primary goal of a quality control process is to spot and prevent manufacturing defects and non-conformities BEFORE the product is received to the end user.

7. What is your lead time for producing new product batches?

Determining your manufacturer's production timeline and aligning it with your business strategy is crucial. If your production is based in China, consider national holidays like the Chinese New Year and potential component supply issues. If there is a strict market readiness deadline, start engaging with the manufacturer at least nine months in advance. Avoid rushing!

Establishing a stringent quality control process with your manufacturer is vital for maintaining manufacturing standards.

8. Could you share details about your pricing model and services you offer?

Ask about the pricing structure and services offered by the manufacturer. Do they provide product assembly? Do they require minimum order quantities? How robust is their product quality control process? How do they manage shipping? It's important to grasp the entire financial scenario to avoid unexpected surprises.

For instance, if you're manufacturing injection plastic parts, you'll have to cover tooling costs ranging anywhere from $5,000 to $100,000 or more. The complexity of your product, specifically the number of parts, will influence the overall costs associated with manufacturing, assembly, and delivery.

9. What are your payment terms are you flexible?

Ensure you understand the manufacturer's payment terms and verify they align with your business strategy. Have sufficient budget for tooling and the production run?

If not, it's important to negotiate terms that satisfy your needs. Working with a manufacturing partner who has established relationships with suppliers may result in better payment conditions, both currently and down the line.

10. Could you outline your communication process?

Determine how the manufacturer intends to communicate with you throughout the production process. Their communication style should meet your expectations.

Your primary contact will likely be a factory salesperson whose short-term goals may be quota-driven. However, the factory owner might be more open work with you to a long-term business partnership.

By asking the right questions, you can find a manufacturer who can deliver a high-quality product on time and within your budget. A manufacturer that aligns with your business values can be an invaluable asset. Remember, open communication and transparency are critical for a successful partnership.

Set up a remote meeting with the manufacturing team to see if you click.

Having an experienced representative, or better yet, someone with an established relationship with a factory, can be immensely beneficial.

Delegate the Manufacturing of your Business

Delegating production to a partner in Asia can help businesses scale by leveraging cost-effective production and established supply chains.

Choosing to work with RedMarble offers you the advantage of a hands-off approach to managing the factory and manufacturing process. With our expertise and established relationships, we are able to act as your representative, ensuring that your interests are protected and that your manufacturing needs are met to the highest standard. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your business, while we handle the complexities of manufacturing. With RedMarble, you can be assured of quality, efficiency, and a smoother path to the success of your product.