you’re looking to start a hand or power tool line, finding the right manufacturer and supplier is essential. It can be difficult to know where to start, but don’t worry — we’re here to help. In this post, we’ll outline the basics of getting started with customized manufacturing and give you some tips for finding the right manufacturer for your needs.

What is a Manufacturer?

Any company that creates completed things from raw materials is a manufacturer, or essentially a factory. They market these products direct to customers, wholesalers, distributors, merchants, and or even other manufacturers that wish to make upgraded or sets of products.

Manufacturers often stick to a single type of product line or range. You may create and build what you need while also obtaining the most affordable production cost by working with them directly.

For example, you could work with a manufacturer who creates hand and power tools. Diversitech Global is a reputable hand and power tool manufacturer that many well-known retailers have worked with to create wide-ranging inventories for their stores.

What is a Supplier?

Manufacturers and suppliers are frequently used interchangeably. Generally, when the term “supplier” is used, it refers to anyone who is able to offer you products and stock for your inventories.

This includes wholesalers, distributors, trading firms, and drop-shipping businesses that buy already-established brands and goods. And of course, manufacturers/factories themselves that sell direct to retailers.

It’s important to note that, although sometimes lumped together, not all suppliers are manufacturers. This is especially true when looking for manufacturing in other countries.

Various Resources for FInding Manufacturers

The success of your new product idea or concept depends on choosing the proper and reliable manufacturer. Your product’s base pricing, quality, packing, and shipping are all under the manufacturer’s control. Finding a suitable manufacturer is a crucial step in the process.

1. Online directories of manufacturers

Online supplier directories, sometimes referred to as B2B websites, are one of the fastest ways to locate a range of manufacturers to produce your goods. With profiles for hundreds or thousands of manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and company catalogs, it’s a great resource.

These directories often screen and evaluate the manufacturers they list. This may provide you with some further comfort that your source is reliable—though, of course, your own due diligence is still paramount.

• Global Sourcing Specialists (GSS): If you’re looking to hire a factory overseas, this is an excellent resource, from mass production or manufacturing in smaller quantities
• Alibaba: A great place to look for manufacturing overseas. The website’s industry navigation can find manufacturers that best match your business needs
• MFG.com: Locate a factory anywhere in the world as well as manage your projects, follow their development, and much more
• Thomas.net: More than half a million commercial and industrial vendors are available through this service. Finding bespoke fabrication and manufacturing businesses is made easier

2. Recommendations or networking

Some of the best leads can come from referrals and can set you on the right path immediately. Don’t be afraid to ask connections in your professional network if they have any recommendations or if they know someone who might. Look for individuals who’ve found success in an area you’d like to pursue and see if they’re willing to share their contacts.

Even manufacturers that don’t offer quite the service you need may be able to refer you to others. Being in the industry means they’ll likely have great contacts and would be able to point you to an option that might be a better fit.

3. Discussion forums and social media

Make sure to utilise these platforms because social networks have made open communication much more widespread. Join company owner forums on Facebook and other websites to check for positive reviews and comments. You may start conversations with other professionals on LinkedIn even if you don’t have the proper connections.

A lively forum is a fantastic resource. You might be able to locate posts addressing the manufacturers and the product category you’re looking to produce. While some professionals are reluctant to share their insider knowledge, many are eager to assist a novice.

4. Internet and Search Engines

Of course, a quick online search today may turn up anything. Without employing a decent selection of search phrases to provide relevant results, finding reputable manufacturers could be a little more challenging.

Try to combine the name of your product, its type or usage with various search terms, such as “manufacturer,” “global supplier” or “factory.” Additionally, you should search for all associated terms, for instance, because phrases like “tool kits,” “DIY power tools,” and “home DIY” may be used similarly.

Conclusion

When sourcing a manufacturer for your next project, there are many avenues you can explore. We’ve outlined just a few of the most common methods here. No matter which path you choose, it’s important to do thorough research to ensure that the manufacturer is reputable and will produce a quality product that meets your needs.

It’s easy to get frustrated when you hit dead ends or brick walls, but in most cases, it just requires a little more patience and perseverance to find the perfect partner for your new venture. With a little legwork, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect manufacturer for your hand and power tool line range.