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)
How To Validate Your Supplier's Factory's Production Capacity (From Abroad)?
Manufacture in China, Vietnam, India, or Elsewhere in 2021?
Tips For Continually Getting Good Results From A New Supplier | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 11)
Why The Bill Of Materials (BOM) Is A Key Document For Importers
The Impact Of Chinese New Year On Importers & Tips To Prepare For CNY 2021
3 Types Of Quality Control Plans & Why They're Needed BEFORE Production
Pricing, Negotiation, Contracts | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 10)
Exploring Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
How To Perform In-Depth Due Diligence On Your Supplier | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 9)
The Basics of Quality Management for Buyers
Factory Testing Facilities | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 8)
What Is Compliance Testing And When Is It Appropriate?
Analysing the (NPI) New Product Introduction Process & its Benefits
Exploring Process Audits | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 7)
How & why to create a valid China manufacturing contract
All You Should Know About Management System Standards & Auditing Them
7 Manufacturing Challenges Due To Lack Of Transparency In China & How To Mitigate Them
Why Conduct On-Site Social Compliance Audits? | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 6)
The end of Just-In-Time (JIT) manufacturing?
The Importance Of On-Site Factory Quality Audits | Vetting Chinese Suppliers (Part 5)
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