China Supplier Strategies

China Supplier Strategies

There are many things to be aware of when selecting a Chinese Supplier for your offshore sourcing project.  From price to turnaround time there are many variables that play a role in your sourcing success.  Have a clear vision on what you’re looking for. Recognize red flags and key alerts that a China supplier isn’t reliable or prepared to handle the project.

This all goes with China supplier strategies. When you contact an overseas company; that doesn’t speak English (as a first language), that doesn’t know you, ever seen you and you aren’t sure they want to handle your request…

Are you going to contact them cold and just let a stream of consciousness fly? Or have you laid out a game plan on how to approach this potential supplier?

A well-thought out China supplier strategy should include:

• Time spent researching production partners.
• Having a concept of the country’s geography. For smooth logistics you wouldn’t necessarily find a vendor in the middle or a remote part of the country. Do you know what area of China your product is mainly produced in?
• Compiling evidences of your specifications, requirements and basically what you want sourced or developed. This is all part of your RFQ (request for quotation).
• Time set aside to discuss the feedback from potential suppliers. Are you dedicated and patient to discuss the quotes and their questions?

Below are 4 links that will give clearer insight on suppliers that I hope will help you formulate a winning strategy. Mind you this blog is not highly technical and does not always give you the path in a step 1, step 2 fashion. My hope is that these articles give you the spirit of the strategy so that you can put together the path that is right for you.

7 Soft Skills Needed for Sourcing China Suppliers

Giving Feedback to China Suppliers

Quoting Promotional Products from China Suppliers

Promotional Product Distributors Establishing China Supply Chains