In this mini-series of podcast episodes, we will explore the process of what it means to work with the right Chinese supplier and how to qualify them effectively, screening out the bad options and focusing only on the one or two best choices.
You can read more about this topic in the series of blog posts on QualityInspection.org which we refer to throughout - read all of those posts here.
When starting to source new suppliers, you need to be aware of the risks, and these bad behaviours are what we focus on in this episode - the 7 ways Chinese suppliers cheat or cause trouble for customers.
Show NotesWhy is vetting new Chinese suppliers so important? (Start to 1:45) - the topic is drawn from this blog post which you can read for extra information.
Introduction to the components of trust between supplier and client - firstly, do you trust them their character and truthfulness and secondly, do you trust them to be able to actually fulfil your orders correctly? The need to be careful not to put yourself in a situation where you rely too much on one supplier who may not have your best interests in mind. (1:45 to 7:38)
7 ways Chinese suppliers can cheat you! The 5 bad behaviours1. The supplier disappears after a deposit, or a fee for samples is wired. (7:38 to 11:25)
2. Price increases unexpectedly after a deposit is transferred and you're 'hooked.' (11:25 to 16:33)
3. Price increases from one order to the next, without relation to production cost increases. (16:33 to 18:55)
4. Lack of respect of IP rights (selling the buyer’s design to other customers). (18:55 to 25:05) - you may also enjoy this blog post related to IP theft in China, too.
5. Lack of transparency (subcontracting outside of an approved facility, changing a component without notice, etc.) includes a discussion about how face is gained when you get away with things and also the concept of chabuduo (more or less). (25:05 to 31:24)
2 lacks of competency/experience6. Lack of reliability: late deliveries, inconsistent communication…why over-promising and underdelivering has become common among Chinese manufacturers. (31:24 to 34:50)
7. Inability/unwillingness to reach the desired quality standard. At what point do you 'pull the plug' on a supplier who is unable or unwilling to produce goods at the quality standard you are expecting? (34:50 to 37:55)
Previewing the next episodeIn part 2 of this series, we will move on to discuss how to screen out the 'bad' suppliers who are likely to cause you the problems discussed in this episode? This will include tips for better vetting, such as background checks and smart questions to ask that will help you quickly identify which candidates aren't right for your needs. (37:55 to END)
Near-Sourcing in Europe (+ Turkey) VS Buying from China (Feat. Fredrik Gronkvist, Productmkr.com)
What do the USA's May '24 China tariffs mean for importers?
IP Protection when buying from China (Feat. Dan Harris, China Law Blog)
Exploring Plastic Injection Molding Pilot Runs
The Rise Of The Dragon: Exploring China’s Technology Dominance
10 Common Problems From Chinese Suppliers (& How You Can Deal With Them)
Quality Fade: Silent AND Deadly!
PCBA Protection: How to Care for the Heart of your Electronic Product
Traceability In Manufacturing: Far More Than Just A Safety Net
Boeing's Serious Issue: Bad Manufacturing Habits
Manufacturer's & Buyer's Risks in China: Mitigation and Insurance Tips
Chinese e-Bike/Scooter Battery Fire Risks Are No Joke! (Feat.Clive Greenwood)
Apple Vision Pro Cracking Up! Reliability Problems, So Soon? (BONUS)
Plastic & Metal Development Prototypes: Uses & Limitations
Handing Over To Manufacturing: Best Practices
Technology & Innovation in Freight Forwarding (Feat. Amit Rosenthal, CEO of Proboxx)
What's A Good QA Auditing & Inspection Program For New Products?
Why NOT doing ESD testing on new electronic products is scary!
Impact of Yemen's Houthis On Global Shipping in Jan '24 (BONUS)
The Experience Effect: The Key to Mass Production Cost Reduction & Efficiency
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