If you have a great idea that you think it’s feasible and a desire to turn it into reality, you can make the jump and create something great out of nothing.

You may still have some questions:

• How do I find a manufacturer for my product?
• How much will it cost me?
• How long will it take them to produce my orders?

Whatever it is, for starters, you have to know that there are a lot of factories that are waiting out there who are dying to produce your dream products.

If you are still struggling with the idea of whether or not to outsource manufacturing your products to China, here are 5 steps to manufacture your products in China. Let’s begin!

Step 1: List All Your Needs

You might have a good idea of how to develop and operate a small business, at least you think so. But maybe you are not quite sure how to get it done.

By far, the most common question we get after 17 years of helping international businesses to move their production to China is “What do I need to provide to get an estimate quote from a manufacturer?”

Maybe you also have this question, right?

Well, to answer this question, you have to understand the manufacturing process. Each product is made based on its materials and complexity, and the processes needed to meet the required specifications.

This is important: having every detail mapped out before contacting any potential manufacturers will make it easier for you and the manufacturer to have an accurate quote.

In fact, at Shield Works, we generally work with a lot of overseas entrepreneurs who have a detailed plan for their products.

Most of our clients understand the gap between current demand and reality, so they try to find a perfect niche to expand their businesses. And they also understand their requirements will vary based on certain orders. So try to let your prospective partners know your product plan ahead of time. It’s also important to keep costs down while still meeting all requirements necessary.

By knowing where your priorities lie before approaching any potential manufacturers, everyone will be aware of what is possible and what isn’t without too much lost time or money later on in development.

Step 2: Build A Product Prototype

Whether you are new to the product manufacturing industry in China or a seasoned veteran, you have likely heard of the concept of product prototyping.

In short, product prototyping is the process to create an initial product to test the function and user experience based on what you will see in this tangible form. It’s also an essential phase that shouldn’t be ignored.

Typically, there are two approaches to creating a physical prototype for your product.

3D Printing

3D printing has a significant influence on the mandating industry.

Using this technology, you can mass produce prototype samples quickly by simply inputting some simple information using a process known as rapid prototyping.

3D printers are best suited for industries that need frequent and disposable prototypes to represent something visually – including jewelry, clothes, and consumer goods.

CNC Prototyping

CNC is an abbreviation of Computer Numerical Control, which allows you to create near-perfect replicas of your product.

Also, it’s a good idea to use the CNC prototypes to showcase a simple demo of your product to potential clients, which can help you gather feedback and suggestions in order to improve the product.

CNC prototypes are ideal for products such as industrial equipment, medical devices, etc.

Step 3: Confirm Your BOM

A bill of materials, also known as a BOM, is the comprehensive list of all required parts, items, raw materials, and assemblies that you need to manufacture a product.

A BOM is one of the most important documents for a custom manufacturer—think of it as a recipe—as it includes all of the components and steps you need to take to manufacture your product.

Typically, BOM is usually split into 2 categories, EBOM (An Engineering Bill of Materials) and MBOM (Manufacturing Bill of Materials)

EBOM

EBOM is used primarily by engineers when they design a product and is often created in a CAD (computer aided design) system.

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MBOM

While the EBOM deals with product design, the MBOM or Manufacturing BOM deals with product assembly which is more detailed than EBOMs in both structure and depth.

MBOMs need to include a line for every material required part or assembly on the supply chain, along with instructions on how the part is to be used.

To have a better understanding of these two terms, let’s take a look at this example:

If the product you are building needs 12 of a certain type of screw, then each individual screw will be listed in the MBOM. Conversely, the EBOM will only list a line where there are 12 total screws needed for production.

Providing an accurate BOM allow your manufacturer to deliver products on time and buy at the best rates for materials and components, thus saving you both money and time.

Step 4: Be Careful Of The Quality

If you have a product prototype on hand, and you have every problem fixed, you’re already halfway there.

After mass production, you should always make sure to avoid common pitfalls with product quality.

Poor-quality products will only hurt your business and tarnish your brand.

If you don’t want to waste your time and money on the long process of product creation, and want to stand out from other brands, it’s better to invest in quality control and customer experience. Otherwise, you may compete on price or delivery options.

To avoid quality problems as much as possible, here are three keys points you should keep in mind:

• Be clear and concise about your product requirements and expectations.
• Investigate and work with your manufacturing supplier to ensure your product complies with the regulations of the final market.
• Follow up throughout production and communicate effectively.

In short, it’s easier than trying to fix things later on!

Step 5: Find A Reliable Manufacturer In China

Manufacturing in China can be a daunting experience for any overseas business. Though the overall process may be similar, the technique and equipment vary from company to company.

Also, selecting a manufacturing company in China can be quite difficult. So It’s better to work with an established and reputable company that specializes in manufacturing for years.

Now, if you are ready to start making your products in China, try to work with us Shield Works.

Shield Works is a British-owned and managed company in Zhuhai City, Guangdong Province, South China Greater Bay Area. We specialize in product design, prototyping, manufacturing, and product assembly for clients from all over the world.

We attribute our success to the dedication and expertise of our engineering team who is highly qualified and experienced.  With over 15,000 projects completed, there is no wonder why we’ve been able to achieve success. Contact us for a no-cost consultation!