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Need a manufacturer to create a product or part for you? With so many manufacturers to choose from, finding the best suited one can often be a challenging task. Below are a few steps that can help you to find the right manufacturer to outsource.

Decide between a local and overseas manufacturer

Local manufacturers and overseas manufacturers each have their pros and cons. If you’re selling products to a local market or producing custom items to put in your premises, using a local manufacturer could save you money on delivery costs. That said, you could find that overseas manufacturers offer cheaper rates. It could also depend on the type of item you’re manufacturing. Certain countries may have more expertise in certain items (India is a huge exporter of medical drug formulations and metals, while China are specialists in athleisure clothing and plastic toys). 

Weigh up general and niche manufacturers

Some manufacturers are able to produce a range of products while others specialize in manufacturing very niche items. A niche company may charge higher rates, but may be able to manufacture something that is higher quality. In some cases, it could be important that an item is manufactured to specific standards - if you’re creating your own e-liquid and need a cartridge, it could be important to find a company that specializes in CCELL cart manufacture. A general plastic extrusion company will likely not be up for the job. 

Compare costs

You need to find a manufacturer that fits within your budget. Consider contacting various manufacturers for a quote. Be very specific about what type of product you need manufactured and the quantity (provide detailed designs if you already have them) - this will help you to get more accurate quotes. You can then compare quotes in order to find the cheapest price. It’s important to note that most manufacturers are willing to drop the price if you show serious interest - don’t be afraid to negotiate, but be realistic about how much you want to knock the price down. 

Research their reputation

You need to choose a manufacturer that is trustworthy and ethical (the latter could be important when choosing an overseas manufacturer). Do your online research to find out if they are a good company. What clients have they worked with in the past? Do they have good reviews and testimonials? Have they been involved in any public scandals? This is all important information to look into.

Consider a factory visit

A factory visit can have many benefits. While it may be difficult to do when choosing an overseas manufacturer, it’s worth doing when choosing a local manufacturer. It’s a chance to build a better relationship with the supplier and to get a more accurate idea of the tools and processes they use. It can also give you a better idea of the quality of the company. Nowadays, it’s easy for a workshop in someone’s shed to pose as a large manufacturing plant online. A company that offers a factory tour is likely to be honest and open.