How to Find a Manufacturer for Your Product

You’ve got a terrific product idea in your head, and you think it could be a game-changer. Now, how do you turn that idea into something tangible? 

You need to find the right manufacturer for the job. There are plenty of manufacturers out there, but finding the one that matches your needs can take a little work. Here are the things you should consider as you make your selection.

What Are Your Exact Manufacturing Needs?

Are you ready to head right into production, or do you need help with your product design and prototype, first? Do you strictly need manufacturing, or would you benefit from fulfillment services, too? 

Most manufacturers list the services that they provide, so you can quickly determine which ones do (and don’t) have the ability to handle your project. 

At RedFox Manufacturing, for example, we provide the full array of manufacturing and fulfillment services, from the initial design and engineering stages, including prototyping and market testing. That can help eliminate problems with the design and add refinements prior to production.

Once manufacturing is complete, our fulfillment team can handle storage, e-commerce, pick & pack shipping, subscription boxes, returns, and more.

Where Do You Want Your Product Manufactured?

Where you choose to manufacture your goods can be very important to your brand and your success. It can also make a big difference in your bottom line.

Domestic Production

Using a domestic production facility is environmentally friendly, and it allows you to showcase the “Made in America” label on your products. Both of those factors can be important to your brand’s image. Plus, domestic manufacturing allows for short lead times, small-batch production, and a high-level of quality control. It’s also less risky when you’re concerned about your intellectual property.

Central American Production

Central American facilities offer lower labor costs, cheaper sourcing, and high-quality production. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) also makes it easier and cheaper to move goods back and forth from Central America to the United States. 

Asian Production

Manufacturing in Asia has the advantage of low raw material costs, cheaper labor, and lower manufacturing costs. It’s also ideal for large-scale orders and fast production. Asian supply chains are well-established, too, although there may currently be problems due to the coronavirus pandemic.

At RedFox, we maintain seven manufacturing facilities in the United States, 18 in Central America, and 33 throughout Asia. That gives our clients the broadest possible options, and it makes it easier to pivot when there are unexpected disruptions with overseas facilities.

How Comfortable Are You With Your Options and Interactions?

Some manufacturers only want to work with large orders. Until you’re sure about the demand for your product, you may not want to sink a large amount of money into an order. 

When researching manufacturers, make sure that you feel comfortable asking questions about minimum order quantities, sourcing suppliers, and payment terms. Always look for a manufacturer who encourages your questions and is responsive.

Is It Time to Get Started on Your Manufacturing Product?

Learn more about manufacturing in Springville, Utah, and around the world with RedFox. We think you’ll be surprised at how easy achieving your goals can be.