On-time delivery is a well-known, crucial element of a successful supply chain. No product, no sales, or worse: No product: customers may find another supplier. While importing involves all of the issues of domestic manufacturing, there are additional layers to consider with on-time product delivery. Customs inspection procedures have experienced several enhancements due to various reasons. For example, there are increases with security concerns and international paperwork procedures leave no room for error. Furthermore, companies must consider the physical movement of containers, ships, and rail. Inspectors must synchronize in a ballet-like fashion for every delivery platform to ensure products reach their destination on time.
Product Delivery Delays
The fear of late deliveries can offset the lure of lower-cost goods from overseas. Why? For those with some or no experience in offshore manufacturing, the process can be complex and mystifying. Cultural, economic, and even weather-related factors can come into play in ways not thought about when the original PO is issued.
While product delivery delays due to weather or random customs inspections are situations no one can control, there is a solution. For instance, companies have found a proven way to minimize late deliveries when moving production offshore. They can work with a company that has deep experience in the culture and business practices of that country. It’s one thing to be familiar with a couple of factories in China, but quite another to work with an experienced liaison company. that has been working in Asia since the ’70s.
ITI Manufacturing is such a company that has been working in Asia since the ’70s. We have teams of native English-speaking Americans along with native Chinese speakers who interface with our China staff and factories. There is no “lost in translation” scenario. The same clear communication structure ensuring all details take place in a timely manner for a shipment to arrive on time is the same structure that guarantees goods are manufactured, tested, and inspected to the customer’s specifications. Therefore, the most common reasons for late shipments include the way staff handles the following…
- Issues with raw materials
- The manufacturing process
- Communication surrounding transportation
Fortunately, ITI’s China staff has the experience and know-how to manage this complete process.
Raw Material Suppliers
Our China staff works hand and hand with Chinese manufacturers to ensure the correct raw materials, in the right quantities, are on hand when needed.
Manufacturing Timeline
ITI’s China staff also meets face to face with factory owners and staff monitoring the status of work in progress. They become part of the factory’s team responsible for on-time production. When an issue arises, they address them immediately. Our China staff also interfaces directly with internationally recognized testing labs for all required material and/or final product testing.
Overseas Product Shipment
Finally, ITI’s China staff works closely with all entities involved in the exporting of the completed goods. All required fees and paperwork is meticulously completed and submitted. If a customer wants to take possession of the goods in China, ITI’s China staff works closely with the customer’s chosen freight forwarding company to ensure a smooth transition. On the USA side, ITI arranges for all paperwork and fees to be issued and paid in a timely manner, allowing the shipment to be delivered to the agreed location.
ITI has been managing our client’s offshore manufacturing process since the 70’s. We understand the culture, the issues, and the solutions needed for on-time production. Give us a call, we can help.
