Challenges Faced by Customers and How They Overcame Them
1.1 Challenges faced by customers and how they overcame them.
1.1.1 Language Barrier
This has been a widespread issue reported by numerous consumers. They are not fluent in many languages, and as a result, they misinterpreted the quotation. To win the business, they give a date that cannot be met and a reduced price that cannot be met, resulting in complete misunderstanding. Many consumers now prefer to have a middle agent that speaks and understands both languages in order to negotiate the price and obtain reliable information.
1.1.2 Change in Price
Small price variations do occur as a result of market material price fluctuations and labour expenses, but in other circumstances, small deviations might double or triple the initial price. Why? Because the pricing may not include the design element of the project or other steps in the overall process. Materials may also be sourced inconsistently, and the vendor may simply shop around for the lowest material cost for your estimate, which will not be accessible when you commission the injection moulding tools. Customers may now confirm that the vendor has included the cost of each step in the quotation, from research and design to test expenses.
1.1.3 Injection Molds Perform Poorly
Moulds may fail to perform satisfactorily. They may experience flashing at the separating lines, resin burning, short shots, sinks in the A-class surfaces, and other issues. Customers now prefer vendors who perform a mould flow analysis prior to providing the moulds. It will detect issue spots that may result in short shots and burns on the material.
1.2 Tips for dealing with Chinese suppliers and managing expectations
If you are a new importer trying to do business with Chinese manufacturers, you may initially find the procedure intimidating and even complicated. Here are five crucial pointers to assist you navigate the seas while dealing with Chinese vendors.
1.2.1 Manage FX Risk
To safeguard your profit margins from negative market movements, you must have a comprehensive risk management strategy in place.
There are three basic methods to get started:
o Speak with an expert who can assist you in developing a comprehensive risk management strategy based on your company's needs and objectives.
o Determine your RMB rate to maintain profit margins, consider entering into a forwards contract with a financial solution provider.
o Re-evaluate your risk management plan on a regular basis to keep up with market developments.
1.2.2 Develop Personal Ties Beyond Business
Treating your suppliers as friends and going above and above will strengthen your business ties and facilitate future negotiations. Here are a few examples:
Research their professional, academic, and personal backgrounds; consider long-term relationship building; identify key company decision-makers; and send them greetings for the Chinese New Year or invite them to your nation.
1.2.3 Understand Local Market Practice
While China has been a major source of variety, it is also a difficult market to navigate. Although China has taken numerous measures to expand its international trade, it is critical that you:
o Centralize communications with suppliers, use a local purchasing agent in China.
o Set up your own China office with local employees. Hire Mandarin-speaking personnel in your country to assist with supplier management.
1.2.4 Understand the Impact of Chinese Holidays
A Chinese New Year is a huge holiday that causes a massive closure, which might disrupt your supply chain and cost you more money due to late shipment. So, it's best to schedule your orders so that they don't suffer as a result of the New Year's festivities. It is not recommended to order in bulk immediately before the holidays because demand may increase, resulting in a price increase.