Preparations for product sourcing

We are often asked what information we need about the product in order to find a suitable manufacturer in China. The answer is actually quite simple, because in order to avoid faulty deliveries and problems, we and the manufacturer need as much and as detailed information as possible.

To ensure that the product exactly meets the company's requirements, it is essential to produce detailed and accurate drawings and sketches of the product. This is the only way a manufacturer can understand exactly how the product is to be manufactured. It is best if, in addition to the sketches, there is also an initial prototype that can be used to identify any difficulties during production. The production of prototypes during product development is also essential for the companies themselves, as this is the only way to see whether a product really works. A prototype can be produced by special prototype manufacturers, for example, and is used to test the product and present it to customers and investors. If a prototype is faulty and the end product is manufactured according to this sample, the manufacturers are not responsible and the company is left with the costs and the faulty products. Companies should therefore only ever approach procurement agencies or manufacturers once the product has already been sufficiently planned and documented. This can save companies a lot of money and reduce the number of errors.

In addition to drawings and sketches, a requirements sheet should be available on which important information can be found. Questions that companies should definitely ask themselves are How many products are needed? What color should they be? What materials should they be made of? Is the product required with suitable packaging? It is also important to consider whether the product or individual parts of the product are patented or whether any competing products are patented. With the help of the requirements sheet and the sketches, it should be clear to everyone what the product should look like and how it works. If there are still ambiguities or requirements that are not clearly defined, misunderstandings can quickly arise.

The framework conditions are also of great interest to procurement agencies and manufacturers. In any case, companies should think about the price at which end customers should buy the product and how much the product may cost at most during production. Companies should calculate realistically, as Chinese manufacturers also pay for good quality. Another important point that should be clarified in the framework conditions is the time available. If production has to start immediately and be completed as quickly as possible, it can be somewhat more expensive for companies and transportation costs can also increase. If the product is needed urgently, transportation by plane is the best option, but this is more expensive than by ship, for example. Other aspects that should be clarified are, for example, the storage of the products or whether there is a possibility that there will be further orders for this product from this manufacturer in the future.

Then send us a no-obligation inquiry and we will start looking for the right Chinese producers for your product.