5 Questions to Ask Your New Supplier or Manufacturer

Choosing the right supplier or manufacturer can make or break your business. Whether you're sourcing raw materials, components, or finished products, vetting potential suppliers is so important so that you can ensure reliability, quality and efficiency. A poor supplier relationship can cause delays, quality issues which lead to bad reviews and chargebacks, so it’s essential to do proper due diligence.

Here are five essential questions to ask when vetting a new supplier or manufacturer.

1. What Are Your Production Capabilities and Lead Times?

Understanding a supplier’s production capacity is important so you can avoid delays and make sure that they can meet your demands.

Ask about:

• Production volume capabilities (daily, monthly, and annually)

• Peak & Off Peak lead times

• Scalability options as your business grows

• Customization and specification options for your product

Why This Matters:

A supplier with insufficient capacity can lead to bottlenecks and missed deadlines, negatively impacting your supply chain. Making sure that they can handle your demand both now and as you scale is crucial to long term success.

2. What Quality Control Measures Do You Have in Place?

Consistent quality is key for customer satisfaction and compliance with industry regulations.

Ask about:

• Certifications and compliance standards (ISO, CE, FDA, etc.)

• In house vs. third party quality checks

• Defect rates and return policies

• Sample testing before mass production

Why This Matters:

A strong quality control process reduces the risk of defective products, customer complaints and chargebacks. Look for suppliers with a documented quality assurance process and clear policies on handling defects.

3. Can You Provide References or Case Studies?

A reputable supplier should have no issue providing references from past or current clients.

Request:

• Case studies showing successful projects

• Testimonials and/or reviews

Why This Matters:

Previous client experiences can provide valuable insight into the supplier’s reliability, responsiveness and problem solving abilities. If a supplier hesitates to provide references, it may be a red flag.

At J&H Group, we've had the privilege of working with a range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to Small & Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and Ecommerce Entrepreneurs. We pride ourselves on being transparent and showcasing our success stories. You can explore our case studies here.

4. What Are Your Payment Terms and Pricing Structure?

Clear pricing and flexible payment terms can impact cash flow and profitability for your business.

Ask about:

• Minimum order quantities (MOQs)

• Payment schedules (net 30, net 60, etc)

• Hidden fees (customs, shipping, duties)

• Discounts for bulk orders or long-term partnerships

Why This Matters:

Understanding the total cost of doing business with a supplier, including any hidden fees, helps you budget accurately and avoid any surprises. Certain payment terms can also improve cash flow management.

5. How Do You Handle Supply Chain Disruptions?

Global supply chain issues can impact delivery timelines. A reliable supplier should have contingency plans.

Ask about:

• Backup manufacturing facilities

• Risk management strategies

• Communication protocols for delays or shortages

Why this matters:

A supplier with a proper risk management strategy is more likely to maintain reliable operations during unexpected disruptions. This reduces the risk of delays and losses for your business.

Additional Supplier Vetting Tips:

• If possible, visit their facility to assess working conditions and production quality firsthand.

• Test their reliability by placing a small order before committing to a long term agreement.

• Clear and responsive communication is essential for effective partnership.

Sourcing products from China can be rewarding when done right. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, conducting thorough due diligence, and prioritizing quality and communication, you can minimize risks and establish successful partnerships with reliable Chinese manufacturers. 

Don't let the challenges hold you back. J&H Group is here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced team, based in Shanghai, offers sourcing solutions tailored to your specific needs. 

We'll handle the intricacies of finding reliable manufacturers, negotiating contracts, managing quality control, and ensuring smooth logistics so you don’t have too. 

Click below for a free consultation.