OEM Manufacturing
What Is OEM and Why Is It Important for Your Business?
Did you know that 80% of all iPhone screens actually come from Samsung?
If that’s surprising, then you’re in for even more surprises. Thousands of companies purchase third-party components rather than producing them in-house. The process is so common that it even has a name: OEM.
What is OEM? It’s a way for businesses to get high-quality components without draining their resources on building them themselves. It’s such a common practice that even giants like Apple and Ford make use of it.
Most importantly, OEM can benefit a small business as well. Keep reading as we discuss the importance of this concept, and how it can improve everything from prototype design to production.
What Is OEM?
OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. In layman’s terms, this is when an established manufacturer makes a specific component that they sell to other companies. For example, Samsung screens.
Those other companies purchase these parts and use them in their own products. However, they brand their products as entirely their own.
So when you purchase an iPhone, it’s likely that you have a Samsung screen. But nowhere on the packaging or in the advertising will you see the word Samsung. Apple purchases the screen but gives none of the credit to Samsung.
It’s a win-win for both companies. Apple gets a high-quality screen to better sell the product, and Samsung makes a profit. Samsung then gets more business when other companies come to them to purchase screens.
This is a mutually beneficial relationship that you can find both in the electronics world and beyond. Many car manufacturers thrive off of OEM parts, for example.
What Is the Benefit of OEM Parts?
On the surface, it may almost seem like cheating. Apple is a multibillion-dollar company. Why do they not make their own screens?
The answer is quite simple: creating the production lines to make the screens is quite expensive. It requires invaluable industry knowledge, highly-skilled engineers, and highly-specialized machinery. Building the production lines just to create this single component can cost millions or billions of dollars.
You can observe the same phenomenon with computer chips. A single Taiwanese company dominates the market for silicon wafers. Virtually every company on the planet that requires silicon wafers has to purchase them rather than make them themselves.
In the case of semiconductors, creating a single facility to produce them costs billions of dollars. That facility quickly goes out of date and requires a costly overhaul every few years. This means that most companies simply cannot produce semiconductors affordably.
Using Apple as an example again, many components go into a single iPhone. They have radios, flash memory storage, batteries, and so forth. Producing all of these components in-house would result in an iPhone that costs thousands of dollars.
In other words, purchasing OEM parts gives you high-quality, industry-standard products without needing to fund your own manufacturing equipment and production lines. The benefits and savings with OEM far outweigh the cons.
Why Is OEM Important for Your Business?
Apple cannot afford to make everything in-house, and neither can a small business. OEM is invaluable for your business because it brings the cost of production down without sacrificing overall quality.
Further, there are some myths surrounding OEM parts. One common myth is that OEM products cannot be custom. They say that you are stuck with the way a manufacturer produces them even if it doesn’t meet your standards.
This simply is not always the case. Many manufacturers can completely retool their factories to produce OEM parts to your desired specifications. Apple, for example, has considerable influence on how Samsung produces Apple-specific screens.
In addition to this, OEM gives you freedom thanks to the free market. If you are not satisfied with the OEM products of one company, you can often go to another. With the exception of a few industries like semiconductors, there is flourishing competition.
Last but not least, you can save money by purchasing in bulk. It’s far cheaper to make a large run of products than to make smaller numbers one at a time. Establishing a long-term relationship with an OEM manufacturer can save you a lot of money.
How Does OEM Work with Your Business?
So you are sold on the concept of purchasing OEM parts. Now the question is, how do you get started?
First, you will want to contract a Chinese manufacturer. China has a low cost of living, and therefore labor is far more affordable. For this reason, there are thousands of Chinese companies ready to produce Western products at reasonable prices.
You’ll need to take the time to find a reliable company, as you’d want to avoid getting ripped off. But once you get a decent assembly partner, this will be an invaluable business partner for life.
You’ll need to take the time to establish bona fides. You can often find reviews and references from other Western companies. If they had a bad experience with a particular manufacturer, then it behooves you to stay away from them.
You will need a cultural and language liaison when collaborating with a foreign manufacturer. You may need to visit their factories to get a lay of the land.
You will also need to take steps to protect your intellectual property. Some companies have struggled to keep a leash on their IPs when dealing with Chinese companies. This is rare, but it is a caveat you should be aware of.
Get Your OEMs with Shield Works
What is OEM? It’s the most affordable way for companies to obtain specialized parts without building them in-house. OEM parts are high-quality and don’t require your small business to build a production plant for a single component.
Shield Works provides customized assembly, manufacturing, and other related services. Contact us today and find out how we can help you build your products of tomorrow.
5 Risks When Outsourcing to an OEM Manufacturer in China
Outsourcing production to China is becoming a common business strategy for many Western businesses due to the quality of production and its potential for enhanced functionality at a lower investment. This is why even well-established corporations and startups alike are tapping into this lucrative approach, having already identified its myriad benefits.
It is not always the case that utilizing an outsourcing service yields successful and desirable outcomes. Since you are counting on a third-party company to execute essential assignments for you, you could end up with different results due to their capacities.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss 5 of the major risks of outsourcing manufacturing to China and how you can avoid them. With this knowledge, you can make sure you have the most competent manufacturer and a successful business venture.
1. Communication Barriers
One of the main risks of outsourcing manufacturing to China is communication barriers. This can be due to cultural and language differences, as well as a lack of technological infrastructure and understanding of how business is conducted in other countries.
To avoid this, it’s important to make sure there is clear communication between your business and the Chinese manufacturer you choose to work with. Make sure they understand your expectations and timeframes and that you have clear processes and documentation in place. It’s also helpful to have someone on your team who is familiar with Chinese culture and language so they can better communicate your needs. Finally, make sure you are regularly checking in on the status of the project and keeping track of key milestones. By taking these steps, you can ensure effective communication when outsourcing manufacturing to China.
2. Inexperienced Manufacturers
When outsourcing manufacturing to China, it is important to ensure that the manufacturer you choose has experience in the industry. Without sufficient experience, they may not be able to provide the quality and consistency you need to produce a successful product. Additionally, inexperienced manufacturers often lack the necessary machinery and personnel to handle complex projects.
What’s more, most Chinese manufacturers don’t use modern cloud-based project management systems, so it can be difficult to stay updated on progress, changes, and any issues that arise.
Therefore, it is important to research the potential manufacturers you are considering for your project before committing to a relationship. Make sure that they have the necessary resources, technology, and personnel for your specific manufacturing needs. You should also inquire about their previous work and ask for references from their previous clients. This will give you a better understanding of their capabilities and allow you to make an informed decision about whom to trust with your project.
3. Hidden Costs
When outsourcing manufacturing to China, it is essential to review all the costs involved to avoid any additional costs or hidden costs that you may not have initially budgeted for.
Typically, the additional costs may include high customs fees and import taxes when shipping finished products, added labor costs to ensure quality control, and additional materials needed due to substandard production.
When outsourcing manufacturing to China, it is critical to take the time to understand all the associated costs that come with manufacturing in the country. Carefully review any quotations and contracts prior to signing, as they may contain clauses or restrictions that can increase costs without your knowledge. Additionally, seek out experienced partners who have an understanding of China’s business environment and culture, as this can help you avoid costly mistakes.
4. Quality Assurance Problems
Another risk of outsourcing manufacturing to China is the potential for poor product quality. Manufacturing in China requires companies to monitor the production process in order to ensure that the finished goods meet quality standards. To mitigate this risk, you must take proactive steps to ensure that the manufacturers they are working with have the necessary experience and resources to produce quality products.
To do this, companies should establish a quality assurance plan that outlines how the process should be monitored and documented. Companies should also require all manufacturers to sign a contract that clearly states the expectations for product quality and penalties for failing to meet them. Furthermore, companies should consider conducting random quality control inspections throughout the production process to identify any problems before they become costly. Finally, companies should consider investing in third-party inspections to verify the final product meets their requirements before shipment.
5. Intellectual Property Issues
When outsourcing manufacturing to China, companies must be aware of the risks of Intellectual Property (IP) theft. With an increasing number of Chinese manufacturers offering services to global businesses, it can be difficult to protect IP. Chinese manufacturers are often willing to reverse engineer designs or take advantage of a company’s Intellectual Property. This can lead to stolen designs, copied products, and damaged reputations for companies relying on manufacturing in China.
In order to prevent IP theft when outsourcing manufacturing, companies should establish strong agreements with their manufacturer outlining the details of the project and outlining any expectations around IP protection. It is also important to have an international attorney review the contract prior to signing. Lastly, companies should only work with manufacturers they trust and be sure to thoroughly vet the manufacturer before signing any agreement. Taking these measures can help protect companies from IP theft when outsourcing manufacturing to China.
Work With a Professional OEM Company in China
If you are looking to outsource your manufacturing needs to China, then it is essential to work with a professional OEM company like us Shield Works.
We are a British-owned and managed company that specializes in making products according to the highest industry standards and offers a variety of services such as product design, engineering, and fabrication services in a wide variety of fields. Our rigorous approach guarantees the highest quality and consistent service from order placement to delivery. Contact us today for further information.
5 Hidden Perks of OEM Manufacturing in China You Aren’t Told of
OEM manufacturing in China can be a great option for businesses looking to expand their reach in the global market. It offers many advantages, including cost savings, a larger customer base, and access to more resources. However, there are several hidden perks that many people are unaware of when it comes to OEM manufacturing in China. In this blog post, we’ll share five of these lesser-known benefits that you may not have known about before. So keep reading to learn about the hidden perks of OEM manufacturing in China that you aren’t told of!
Cost-Effectiveness
OEM manufacturing in China has become increasingly popular over the last few decades due to its cost-effectiveness. China offers lower production costs, wages, and overhead expenses compared to other countries, allowing businesses to remain competitive and maximize their profits.
In addition to the general cost savings associated with outsourcing production to China, there are other financial benefits.
Companies are able to reduce the cost of shipping by having their components made close to the source of raw materials. Additionally, due to the scale of production available in China, businesses can benefit from bulk discounts and better pricing on raw materials.
Finally, by keeping production in China, businesses can reduce the need for long-term investments in expensive equipment and staff. This allows them to focus on the core aspects of their business and invest their resources more effectively.
A Large Pool of Skilled Workers
When it comes to finding reliable workers for your OEM manufacturing in China, there is an abundance of skilled and experienced labor available. There are over 800 million people in the labor force in China, making it one of the largest markets for hiring workers.
Moreover, the Chinese workforce is known to be highly dedicated and driven, ensuring that your manufacturing projects will be completed on time and to the highest standards.
Not only does China have a large pool of skilled workers but their wages are also significantly lower than other developed countries. This makes it a great choice for companies looking to cut costs and increase their profit margins.
Furthermore, many Chinese factories are willing to negotiate prices and terms, meaning that you can get a good deal on manufacturing services when working with them.
Overall, China’s large pool of skilled workers makes it an attractive choice for OEM manufacturing. With so many experienced laborers available and relatively low wages, you can save money while still getting high-quality results.
Efficient Lead Times
One of the biggest hidden advantages of OEM manufacturing in China is the efficient lead times. OEM manufacturers have established supply chains that can help to speed up production time, helping you to get your products to market faster.
Additionally, Chinese OEM manufacturers have been able to establish extensive networks of suppliers and raw materials to reduce the time it takes to get your products ready for sale. This can save your business both time and money.
Chinese manufacturers are also well-versed in international logistics and can often provide competitive shipping rates. By utilizing these services, you can reduce the cost of shipping and have your products delivered to customers faster. This can be extremely beneficial for businesses that rely on quick turnaround times.
Furthermore, OEM manufacturers in China are also very good at ensuring orders are filled in a timely manner. Many Chinese OEM manufacturers have established processes and systems to ensure orders are fulfilled as quickly and efficiently as possible. This can help to reduce the stress of managing orders and ensure that your customers receive their products when they need them.
Quality Control
When it comes to OEM manufacturing in China, one of the most important aspects is quality control. You need to make sure that all components are created with precision and accuracy, and that the finished product is of the highest quality possible.
With OEM manufacturers in China, you can rest assured that quality control processes are strictly followed and enforced.
It is required that all manufacturing processes adhere to the relevant quality standards and regulations. In addition, many Chinese manufacturers are also required to have their products tested by an independent 3rd-party certification agency before they can be sold.
This helps to ensure that all products meet the highest levels of quality and safety requirements.
Furthermore, OEM manufacturers in China use advanced technology such as Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) to ensure the production process is precise and accurate. This allows them to produce complex components with a high level of accuracy and consistency.
Finally, experienced technicians monitor the production process on a regular basis to ensure quality is maintained throughout the entire manufacturing process. This ensures that any issues are identified and rectified quickly, thus ensuring that the finished product is of a high quality.
Technology and Innovation
The one thing often overlooked is the country’s commitment to developing and implementing cutting-edge technology and innovation.
From using the latest equipment and advanced machinery to embracing new technologies, OEM manufacturers in China are leading the way in modern manufacturing solutions. They offer efficient processes, such as AI-powered solutions and robotics, that can drastically reduce production costs and time-to-market.
In addition, Chinese manufacturers have also invested heavily in improving their factory automation and quality control measures. This means that many OEM manufacturers are now able to produce components with great accuracy and consistency.
The result is high-quality products that meet the expectations of customers, while still being cost-effective.
Finally, the Chinese government has also been very supportive of the country’s move towards innovative solutions. They have provided funding to many initiatives, including the Made in China 2025 program, which encourages OEM manufacturers to adopt new technologies and automation solutions.
This commitment to technology and innovation ensures that Chinese OEM manufacturers remain competitive in an increasingly globalized market.
But there’s a sea of options for you to choose from. How to nail a good one? Find one with their in-house design and engineering team, supplier networks and industry experience, just like Shield Works. Talk to us today, and let us know how we can help you advance your business goal!
OEM Manufacturing in China – Everything You Need to Know
OEM Manufacturing – it’s the reason why some of your favorite products are made in China, and the reason why you might be able to find a more affordable version of that product at your local store. What exactly does OEM mean? Simply put, OEM stands for original equipment manufacturing and it’s often used in reference to products like electronics, automobiles, and various types of machinery – basically anything that would need to be customized or configured according to customer needs before being sold.
What is OEM Manufacturing and its current state in China
OEM manufacturing is a type of manufacturing activity where a company manufactures and sells products or parts of a product for another company, putting the products under the company’s own branding. The manufacturer will manufacture the product according to specifications and then ship it to the buyer. Generally, the buyer will only provide money, expertise and trade secrets. The manufacturer will handle everything from production and shipping logistics to distribution.
It has become a very common type of manufacturing in China now. It accounts for more than 50% of all industrial output in China just last year.
There are mainly three types of OEM manufacturers: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who produce goods based on other companies’ specifications; System integrators who design and assemble the systems but don’t fabricate any components themselves; and Contract manufacturers who buy components made by other firms that have been designed by system integrators.
For western businesses, an OEM manufacturer is a very popular option. It can provide products of good quality at a lower price than they could do it themselves. It offers them a chance to outsource complicated production tasks and focus on what they do best.
The Pros and Cons of OEM Manufacturing in China
The pros of OEM manufacturing in China are that it is less expensive than the United States, Europe, Japan and South Korea. Workers there are skilled because they are more educated with most having graduated with high school diploma, but they are paid less than their western counterparts.
Production times tend to be faster because there is a larger supply chain of suppliers and factories. Most companies send their product engineers over early on so they can set up production lines and make sure everything is operating smoothly before products start arriving from overseas, which can mean better quality control too. If you’re looking for lower costs and want something fast, then this could be the way to go.
However, you should also know about some disadvantages. For example, the deteriorating relationship between the US and China has made their bilateral trade more difficult than ever. Punitive tariffs between the two nations have made it more expensive for an American company to produce its goods there. In response, many Chinese manufacturers have started up factories in Southeast Asia as a major workaround.
How to Find a Reputable OEM Manufacturer in China
In order to find a reliable manufacturer, you will want to do as much research as possible. There are many manufacturers in China, so it is important that you know what to look for when choosing one. Here are some things you should consider:
– Is the factory certified? A factory with ISO certification is usually a good place to start.
– How long has the company been around? The longer a company has been around, the better chance they are dependable and trustworthy.
– What products do they specialize in manufacturing? Some factories specialize in just a few products while others can manufacture anything. Ask yourself if your product would be made by someone who specializes in it or not. It can be helpful to visit their website and read about their capabilities before making your decision on who to use.
– Check their website or other social media presence. Does it look professional? Does it appear active? These questions can help you determine how reputable the company is.
– Are there reviews online for them? Read them carefully and make sure that they’re from legitimate sources. Any reviews from sites like Alibaba are probably fake because these websites get paid by sellers to post reviews on their behalf. Reviews from real buyers often provide very useful information about a supplier’s reliability, such as whether or not they deliver quality products quickly, answer emails promptly, return phone calls, etcetera.
– Do they have an English-speaking customer service staff? If not, you might need to find someone who does as quite likely they don’t much experience in dealing with western customers. Nowadays most manufacturers certified to export have English-speaking staff members in this regard.
Avoiding Scams When Manufacturing in China
There are many scams out there that try and lure companies into thinking they’re getting a great deal on OEM manufacturing in China. If you’re going to do business with someone in the country, make sure you’ve done your research about their company history, including what kind of certifications they have for their products.
You should also be on the lookout for any red flags when it comes to how much the company wants for their services or if they are insisting that you pay upfront before anything is agreed upon. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. It’s best to do as much due diligence as possible before agreeing to work with a new supplier. Even after you find one, stay vigilant by checking up on them often so that you don’t end up being scammed.
The last thing you want is problems with quality or time management along with possible legal issues. That’s why you should keep in touch with them on a regular basis so there aren’t any surprises for either party involved. It’s always important for manufacturers and clients to work together closely so they can best understand one another and work together to meet each other’s needs.
Shield Works is an ISO-certified and British-owned and managed OEM manufacturer that check all the boxes aforementioned with 17 years of experience in China. Contact us to see how we can help!