The process of choosing a contract packaging manufacturer is something that you want to spend some time on. A good packager will prove to be an excellent partner for your business. A bad one could cost your company dearly in terms of product recalls and potential liability issues.
Below, we will go through the top questions to ask before you consider settling on a particular candidate.
What is the packaging equipment do that you use?
This is the first question you should ask. The answer will tell you whether or not a company can handle your specific needs and the quantities that you require. Find out what kind of production the company is capable of before you tell them the amount that you need.
Can this company meet your needs regarding your chosen packaging?
The more specialized the packaging you require, the more specialized the equipment must be to match. While most people think that one packager will offer pretty much the same as another, this is not always the case.
They might, for example, specialize in corrugated crates. Which is great, if that’s what you’re looking for. It also pays to consider the future here. Is your company considering branching out? What kind of packaging will the new product require, and can they handle it?
While this might not be essential right now, it pays to think about it for the future. Ideally, this is a company that you are going to want to grow with so find out whether or not they can source the products that you need at wholesale rates.
The answer to this question will help you to gauge the packaging provider’s capabilities. Do they specialize in one type of packaging, for instance, die cut corrugated or heavy-duty wooden crates? Can they source a broader range of products at wholesale prices?
What kind of tracking system do you have in place?
This is essential, especially when it comes to medical devices and pharmaceuticals. You want to ensure that you can track every item to the exact date when it was manufactured and packed. This becomes especially important with product recalls.
What storage facilities do you have?
Ideally, you want to be able to ship your product there in reasonable quantities. That way you can maximize production and efficiency. You’ll need to see how and where the items will be stored. Do your items require some kind of specialized storage facilities? Can you be sure that everything will be correctly and safely stored?
To Wrap it Up
Getting this right is essential. If a facility is unable to handle your production requirements or package the items properly, your business will suffer. Be sure to ask the questions above to make sure that your potential packager is up to your specifications.