Lots of companies struggle with finding a packaging supplier, since many don’t’ know of the complexity that’s involved in this. Here, we’ll talk about the major factors and issues to consider when you’re choosing this, along with the right questions you should be asking the sales reps.
First, consider the selection of materials and stock, and figure out if they have what you need in stock, and whether or not they’re open with the lead times for sourcing these. This is a very important question, because you want to choose someone that’s got a large amount of options for packaging, and keeps these ready for when you need it, and you should discuss the potential for an order program that repeats, so you can call these at different intervals, removing the potential for lengthy lead-times that hinder production. It’s the same with materials, and you should figure out where they’ll be sourced, and oftentimes the supplier will work with you.
Next look at price. Oftentimes, these change based on material, and you should understand that the quotes that are here are definitely competitive, and you should consider the different service levels. Figure out if the higher cost is worth it or not. You should look for affordable solutions that are there and look at whether the high-value of order is actually cost-effective or not.
Then there is service. Does the vendor actually grow when you grow? This is incredibly important that you choose various vendors that can show that they’ll grow as you do, and they’ll make an effort to understand the business needs.
You can oftentimes determine this simply by asking if they work with larger companies. That way, you can figure out if they’ll work with larger-scale operations on the long term.
Finally, delivery. You want to make sure that they’ll deliver and deliver quality. You want to see that they have a track record that’s proven to work, so that you have the confidence that they’ll be around when you need it. Good suppliers will give you lead times without much issue.
You then want to find out how they differentiate from the competition. Ask them how they stand out, what shapes and graphics they use, whether or not they are willing to work with year-round products. You should also discuss with them what the long-term goals are and find out whether or not they can accommodate for your needs. Do be prepared to talk to the vendor about this, since they’ll be able to support the business that’s constantly evolving. A supplier that works with vendors that are multiples is a big plus for you.
Do talk to vendors, and get the truth out of them, including what they’re like, and their ability to handle workflow. You’d be surprised at how important this is, and for those of us who want something that is reliable and good, this is the way to do it.