Due to the demand for various metal parts across industries, the metal casting process was developed. This process allows for the production of metal castings with different materials and structures. Generally, casting can be divided into two types: investment casting and sand casting. Investment casting is primarily used for small, precise metal components, while sand casting is typically employed for larger parts.
In China, many foundries specialize in casting, with the majority focusing on investment casting. For buyers seeking investment casting services, the challenge lies in selecting the right supplier from the outset, despite having many options for price comparison. Low prices may raise concerns about quality, while higher prices might strain the budget. In this discussion, we'll explore how to find a reliable investment casting supplier in China.
First, why bother finding a casting foundry in China?
Did you know that China is often referred to as the "world's factory," contributing a staggering 28.7% of global manufacturing? That's a major player on the global stage!
It’s no surprise that businesses turn to China for suppliers, and here are some key reasons why:
Lower production costs lead to higher profit margins.
With extensive infrastructure and a skilled workforce, they can fulfill large orders quickly.
The variety of suppliers across various industries is unmatched.
Their product lines are highly organized and refined.
Materials are readily available, making sourcing more efficient.
However, it's not without challenges. You'll need to navigate potential hurdles like maintaining product quality, overcoming language barriers, handling MOQs (minimum order quantities), and managing shipping timelines.
Still, with the right strategy and some know-how, leveraging China's manufacturing strength can unlock significant opportunities for your business. Keep reading for our top, proven methods—including specific websites, trade shows, and social networks to help you find manufacturers.
Types of Chinese Casting Foundries
Before we get into how to work with Chinese manufacturers, it's important to understand the different types of manufacturers so you can choose the right one for your business.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
An OEM is a company that produces components or parts for a product made by another company. OEMs typically focus on B2B (business-to-business) sales, prioritizing the manufacturing of parts rather than the finished product. For example, in the computer industry, OEMs make the various parts that computer companies use to assemble their products. The computer company doesn’t manufacture the parts itself; instead, it purchases them from OEMs who specialize in each component.
ODM (Original Design Manufacturer)
ODMs can be thought of as "private labelers." They take an existing product design from an OEM, CM, or other factory, make modifications (which can range from minor tweaks to significant changes), and sell it under their own brand. These modifications might involve branding, colors, packaging, or even adjustments to the product's components and functionality. ODMs need to stay on top of product trends and market opportunities to stay competitive.
CM (Contract Manufacturer)
A contract manufacturer (CM) steps in when an OEM lacks the capacity, expertise, or resources to produce a product. CMs receive the product specifications and handle the production, but the client retains all intellectual property (IP) rights. The CM’s role is to execute production according to the design requirements they’re provided.
TC (Trading Company)
A trading company acts as a mediator between manufacturers and buyers. They often have a better understanding of customer needs and market demands than the manufacturers themselves, making them well-suited to manage orders and facilitate communication. Trading companies also specialize in import/export regulations, ensuring smoother transactions. By working with a trading company, you can often enjoy better communication and still benefit from the low prices offered by manufacturers.
Tips for choosing a casting foundry in China
With a vast selection of suppliers and manufacturers to choose from, how do you narrow down the options? Here are a few tips to help you select the best manufacturer for your business:
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
This refers to the minimum number of items the manufacturer requires you to order to work with them. The exact number varies by manufacturer, but it typically starts at 50 items or more. MOQs are in place to ensure the manufacturer can make a profit and that it's worthwhile to work together.
Product Quality
It's crucial to request a sample product to evaluate its quality before committing. This ensures you’re satisfied with what you’ll be selling to your customers.
Communication
Efficient communication is essential, especially when problems arise. Make sure the manufacturer is responsive and able to address your questions or concerns promptly.
Payment Options
Different manufacturers have different payment methods. Common options include PayPal, MoneyGram, T/T (bank transfer), and Western Union. Be clear about what works for both parties.
Price per Unit
Ensure you're aligned on the unit price and inquire about possible discounts for bulk orders.
Verify They Are Not a Reseller
Make sure you’re dealing directly with the manufacturer and not a reseller. You can verify this by doing some research. For example, familiarize yourself with China’s manufacturing regions and their specialties. If you’re sourcing electronics, but your manufacturer is based in Nantong (which specializes in textiles), you might want to double-check if they are indeed a manufacturer, as Shenzhen is the typical hub for electronics.
Production Capacity
Ensure the manufacturer can meet your production needs. If you’re a small eCommerce business, you might prefer working with a small or medium-sized manufacturer. As your business grows, you can look for larger manufacturers with higher production capacities. Engaging a professional in product engineering services can improve communication with manufacturers and ensure your product specifications are clearly understood and met.
Ask Questions
When contacting a manufacturer, ask how long they’ve been in business, if they have business licenses, certifications, and their experience working with Western companies. This will give you a sense of their reliability and expertise.
Now that you have a better understanding of working with Chinese manufacturers, let's explore 12 different ways to find manufacturers for your product. We're confident that one of these resources will connect you with a reliable and high-quality manufacturer.
Conclusion
Knowing how to find a good supplier is key to keeping being competitive on the market. EATHU has been in the casting industry for over 20 years and accumulated rich experience through working with lots of renown brands in the world. If you need some casting project that need be done, feel free to contact us.