Supplier and Manufacturer Guide: What to Look for, What You’ll Need, and Where to Find Suppliers and Manufacturers

Content

1. What is the difference between a supplier and a manufacturer?
2. Supplier and Manufacturer short guide
3. What you need to know about finding a supplier
4. What you need to know about finding a manufacture
5. What about Here Makers

When you’re running an e-commerce or a brand business, you need reliable suppliers and manufacturers to help you maintain seamless supply chain operations. That’s why you need to pay extra close attention to the sourcing process so you can identify reliable and long-term partners.

In this guide, we walk you through the process of finding suppliers and manufacturers for your business. Let’s start!

The manufacturer is the OEM, the manufacturer of the goods.

The supplier is addressed to the customer, which may be a trader, an agent, or a manufacturer

The main difference between a supplier and a manufacturer is that the supplier sells products to other businesses such as retailers and vendors whereas the manufacturer produces the products. In other words, the manufacturer creates the goods, which the supplier then supplies in bulk for other businesses to sell to end consumers.

Supplier and manufacturer quick reference guide

What you need to know about finding a supplier

The product sourcing process is a bit more complicated than reaching out to just any random supplier. You need to take an organized approach that will allow you to narrow down suppliers that fit your needs.

What you need first

Before reaching out to a supplier, make sure you’re prepared with the following information.

Location of supplies: China, Out of China( Like Vietnam, India, Cambodia), Supplier geographic location will determine which third-party platform you use to source suppliers, as each country's platform is different.

Because of the tariffs between China and the United States, most American companies choose to produce their products out of China.

For sure it also depends on your budget. once you determine the country, then you have to have a list of suppliers.

List of supplies

Have a list of everything that you’ll need from the supplier–whether it’s the items from your product range or the components you need to manufacture a product. Make sure the supplier can accommodate all your supply needs before you decide to work with them.

Your budget

Clearly outline how much you can afford to spend on the supplies. Include an estimate of the expected cost per unit and the maximum you’re willing to spend after negotiations.

Questions for your potential supplier

Be prepared to ask important questions that will help you narrow down your selection. Make sure you’re asking questions related to lead times, minimum order quantities, setup fees, sustainability practices, defect policies, shipping methods, payment terms, and shipping costs among many others.

End goal

What do you want to achieve through your partnership with the supplier? Don’t forget to specify your end goal so you can easily identify a supplier who can help you achieve it.

What to look for in a supplier

When choosing a supplier, make sure they meet the following criteria:

• They’re certified to your quality standards and their certifications are up to date.
• The geo-political climate in their region is stable.
• They’re financially stable and aren’t at risk of unexpectedly going out of business.
• You’re capable of managing the weather-related risks that are typical in their region.
• They give you visibility into their inventory information.
• They can scale with you.
• Many other businesses (particularly in your industry) are vouching for them.
• They can accommodate your payment requirements.
• They have a solid track record of making timely deliveries.
• You can trust them to provide quality customer service.

Where to find suppliers

A simple Google search can sometimes reveal leading suppliers for the products you need. Referrals from other businesses in your industry are also a great idea.

To expand your options, you could also go through online directories like Alibaba, Kompass, Aliexpress, and IndiaMART to get access to thousands of suppliers from around the world.

What you need to know about finding a manufacturer

Taking an organized approach will make it easier to streamline your search and narrow down the right manufacturers for your products.

What you need first

Prototype(s)

Although it can get slightly expensive, having a prototype ready is a great way to bring your vision to life. This can prevent miscommunication and ensure that prospective manufacturers know exactly how the product should be built.

Budget

What does your budget look like? Consider additional cost factors related to logistics, shipping, and storage so you can realistically determine how much you’re willing to spend on manufacturing.

Timeline

One crucial aspect to consider is the manufacturing timeline. You have to make sure that you can seamlessly restock your inventory so that customers can receive their orders on time. Having a fair idea of the expected production timeline will help you assess whether a manufacturer’s typical lead times will work for you.

End goal

What do you want to achieve through your partnership with the manufacturer? Clearly define your end goal so that you can easily identify manufacturers who can help you achieve it.

What to look for in a manufacturer

When selecting a manufacturer to work with, make sure they meet the following criteria:

• They have the capability and expertise to produce the kind of products you want.
• They consistently maintain quality across various aspects of their operation.
• Other clients in your industry are vouching for them.
• They’re easy to communicate with and keep you in the loop through the various stages of design and manufacturing.
• They offer competitive pricing.
• They have the flexibility to accommodate your needs–whether it’s in terms of custom orders or payment terms.

Where to find a manufacturer

Google searches and referrals can sometimes reveal reliable manufacturers in your industry. To further explore more options, you can also check out online directories such as Alibaba, Maker’s Row, and MFG.

What about Here Makers?

Our company Here Makers is a one-stop soft bag manufacturer. With a focus on functional and lifestyle backpacks and bags. Currently have around 220 employees, base plant of around 10000squares, located in the south of China, Guangdong province. Offer OEM and ODM service, welcome to contact us for details, thanks.