What is an inspection level in ISO 2859-1 and ANSI_ASQ Z1.4_

This article introduces the different options available to buyers when it comes to the representation of product inspection findings. Inspection level II (under “normal severity”) is appropriate for most random quality inspections. But it is sometimes necessary to increase–or reduce–the … Continue reading

IP Protection For Manufacturers. Keep Component Suppliers In The Dark

There are two complementary approaches to improve IP protection for manufacturers and reduce the risks of your IP being infringed when developing and manufacturing products in Asia. Use legal methods, such as an NNN agreement. Use strategies outside of the … Continue reading

Why A QC Inspector Man-Day In A Factory ISN'T 8-10 Hours

Some buyers who haven’t spent much time in Chinese factories have some common misconceptions, including inaccuracies about a QC inspector’s man-day, or stories like: “Chinese production operators are forced to work 12 hours a day, in a case of modern … Continue reading

Quality Control Plan: Defining Expectations Before Production

A quality control plan is the document that lists all the quality-related checkpoints to be passed during/after a production run. Depending on the situation, it can include process, product, or legal checkpoints. Getting this document approved is an essential step … Continue reading

How To Create A Valid Manufacturing Contract In China To Protect Your IP

China is the perfect location for start-up companies and SMEs from all over the world to bring innovative products to life, but without knowing how to create a manufacturing contract in China which will protect your IP and more, any … Continue reading

How To Improve Quality From A Chinese Factory

Discovering how to reduce quality defects to almost zero from Chinese suppliers is a common request from our clients who are tired of hearing suppliers say “this is made by hand, so avoiding defects is impossible”. Are you tired of … Continue reading

5 Tips For Dealing With An Unexpected Price Rise From Your Chinese Supplier

Clients often approach us to help them to find another supplier due to the fact that their current supplier has hit them with an unexpected price rise either when they tried to reorder, or sometimes even during production. Sounds familiar? … Continue reading

How To Improve Price Negotiation With Chinese Suppliers? [7 Tips]

We are often asked how to improve price negotiation with Chinese suppliers in order to lower purchase costs. Indeed, negotiating a better price from suppliers helps cut costs and, therefore, increases your profits, so it’s a worthwhile activity.

How To Reduce Lead Times From Chinese Suppliers

We often face the situation where our clients’ orders are being delayed and the lead time is extended. So, how to reduce lead times from your Chinese suppliers? Read on for 6 tips.

The issues communication problems with Chinese suppliers cause, and their solutions

What are some of the most common communication problems with Chinese suppliers that cause problems for our clients when they come to us for help?