Step 1 — Define the Product

Everything starts with understanding exactly what you want.

This could be an existing product, a customised version of something already manufactured or an entirely new design.

Specifications, drawings, photographs, reference samples and target quantities can all help manufacturers understand the requirement.

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Step 2 — Identify Potential Manufacturers

Suitable manufacturers are researched and compared.

The objective isn't simply to obtain the lowest quotation. It's to identify manufacturers capable of producing the required product, quality and quantity reliably.

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Step 3 — Request Quotations

Manufacturers provide pricing based on the product specification and anticipated quantity.

At this stage, it's important to ensure you're comparing like with like.

A cheaper quotation isn't necessarily cheaper if it uses different materials or specifications.

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Step 4 — Samples and Prototypes

Samples allow you to physically assess the proposed product before mass production.

For customised products, several rounds of samples or prototypes may sometimes be required.

Take the time to get this stage right.

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Step 5 — Confirm the Order

Once the product, pricing and terms are agreed, the production order can be confirmed.

Specifications, packaging, quantities, lead times and other requirements should be documented clearly.

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Step 6 — Production

The factory begins manufacturing.

Production times vary considerably depending on the product, quantity, materials and current factory workload.

Communication during this stage is important.

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Step 7 — Quality Control

Before shipping, finished goods should be checked against the agreed requirements.

If a problem is identified, it can then be discussed with the manufacturer before the shipment leaves.

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Step 8 — Shipping

Once the goods are approved, shipping can be arranged.

Depending on cost, quantity and urgency, goods might travel by sea, air, rail, road or a combination of methods.

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Step 9 — Customs and Delivery

The shipment reaches its destination, completes the necessary customs procedures and is delivered.

And that's the complete journey — from an initial idea to finished products arriving at your door.

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You Don't Have to Manage Every Stage Yourself

For a small business, managing manufacturers, specifications, production, inspections and logistics while also running the day-to-day business can take considerable time.

That's where East West Sourcing comes in.

With more than 35 years of combined experience and a presence in both the UK and China, we can support the entire sourcing journey or simply the individual stages where you need assistance.

Whether you already know exactly what you want or you're starting with an idea, we'd be happy to discuss it.

Have a product in mind? Get in touch with East West Sourcing and let's talk about how we can help bring it to market.