Here are some interesting or useful articles that I found recently. The flow of things This article exposes China's paradox when it comes to logistics: infrastructures are often excellent, but shipping products within China is … [Read more...]
Archives for July 2014
Why Excessive Stock is a Big Problem in a Factory
Most Chinese factory managers have never completed advanced education. But they are generally very savvy at certain aspects of their job. There is one thing they can't wrap their head around, though: the fact that the rules of physics … [Read more...]
Direct Sourcing in China: What Functions Do Importers Need to Perform?
Direct sourcing has been the dominant trend over the last 20 years. Importers have reduced FOB prices by going "factory direct" by eliminating trading companies. But, in some cases, it has often resulted in higher overall costs and lower … [Read more...]
Reset your Mental Models when Buying in China
Every year, tens of thousands of new businesses start purchasing directly in China. And many of them have a bad first experience. The key to successful China sourcing is not a set of tools -- it is primarily a change in mental … [Read more...]
Three Simple Steps to Reduce Risks when Buying in China
A client asked me this question recently: Is there any way I can get some assurance of the validity of the company as well as the quality of the final product before sending full payment? They have asked for a 30% deposit by T/T. I get … [Read more...]
How to SUSTAIN Improvements in a Chinese Factory?
When a Chinese factory is in crisis and its boss is open to new ideas, it is possible to make a lot of changes quickly. These improvements are usually driven by consultants or by a strong and experienced manager. And the problem is, once … [Read more...]
Auditing a Trading Company in China: What Checklist to Follow?
In some cases, it makes sense for an importer to work with a trading company and to count on them for managing developments and productions properly. Since a trading company is supposed to follow up on production and since … [Read more...]
Tips for Selecting Chinese Suppliers of Injection Molded Products
As I wrote before, the China sourcing process of two importing companies can be very different, while still making sense in each buyer's context. When it comes to purchasing injection or rubber injection-molded products, buyers generally … [Read more...]