What are the best ways to source materials for manufacturing a product?

There are many ways to source materials for your products. Some of the most effective methods include:

• Visiting trade shows
• Searching for vendors online
• Getting recommendations from industry professionals

Before you get started

Before you start searching for a vendor, you’ll want to do the following:

List necessary specifications

Outline the kinds of tasks and stresses your product will have to withstand, and figure out what that means for your materials.

Learn about industry standards

Many products and materials have to meet strict legal standards, which are well worth knowing.

Make a prototype

Where possible, build prototypes of your product using different materials, then see which ones perform the best.

Create a BOM

A bill of materials, or BOM, is a list of all materials you’ll need for your product, and it keeps you, your engineers, and your suppliers on the same page.

3 ways to source manufacturing materials

Once you’re more familiar with the materials you’ll need, it’s time to find suppliers. There are a few ways to do this.

1. Visit trade shows

One way to find suppliers is to visit trade shows and talk to vendors there. Look at samples, ask questions, get contact information, and discuss ballpark pricing.

2. Search online

Another way to find potential suppliers is through an online search. Often, industry-specific organizations have online directories for suppliers that are well worth perusing.

Online directories that may be worth looking at include the following:

• Plastics News Directory
• IQS Directory
• RISI (for wood/paper manufacturers)
• Horticulture International (for the food and beverage industry)

3. Get recommendations

One final way to find suppliers is by talking to industry professionals and getting recommendations. If you’re part of any organizations related to your industry, you might try asking other members.

A few final tips

As you talk to different vendors, these final pointers are worth keeping in mind.

• Narrow potential suppliers down to a shortlist (maximum of six or seven).
• Ask questions about what would best meet your needs. Their insight may help improve your product.
• Pricing is important, but so are reliability and solid service.
• Learn to write an effective purchase order.

With this information, you’re ready to start sourcing materials for your product.