Dear Sarah,What are the pros and cons of manufacturing in the USA vs. Overseas and vice versa?

Thanks,

Hey Robin,
Thanks for this great question.  This can be complicated so I am going to give you the short answer…..even thought it’s not that short!

Pros of manufacturing in the USA:

1. You can see/meet them face to face.
2. You don’t have to give a 30% deposit to start.
3. You can monitor the progress yourself.
4. You save on fed-x charges for samples and stuff.
5. You can usually make smaller quantities.
6. You might get faster delivery if it’s local.

Pros of manufacturing overseas:

1. You don’t have to leave your house to communicate with them.
2. Someone else (like your agent) is monitoring the progress.
3. You get a way better cost of goods.
4. You don’t have to order all the raw materials for your production.
5. You don’t have to stock raw materials.
6. They make all your hangtags and labels.
7. They make your packaging too.
8. You are not running all over the place fetching and well….fetching again.

Cons of manufacturing in the USA:

1. Costs of goods are usually much higher.
2. Materials can be out of stock (with no notice).
3. You have to run around to collect or order all the raw materials and get them to the manufacturer.
4. You have to stock the left over raw materials.

Cons to manufacturing overseas:

1. The minimum quantities can be larger than you want.
2. You have to give a 30% deposit to start.
3. You have to pay in full before it leaves the port.
4. Your risk for damages is closer to 1-3%.
5. It can take 2-3 weeks for transit and delivery.

If you decide to go overseas – be sure to vet your agent or factory.  Get references and check them.

Be sure to always get production samples from anyone you choose to go with. They MUST show you a perfect version of your product before you allow them to proceed.

I hope this is helpful in making your decision.