Blogs
Do You Have an Invention Idea? What You Do First
I often get asked by people who have an invention idea, "What is the first step?" To answer that, I’ve put together this brief guide. Just for context, my first attempts at bringing inventions to market, which started in the early 2000s, were failures. It wasn’t until...
Advantages of Outsourcing Production for Job Shops: How Outsourcing Manufacturing Can Grow Your Business
Job Shops: Are You Turning Down Smaller Jobs? If you're not fulfilling all of your customers' needs, they may turn to another supplier for that part. The advantages of outsourcing production can help you avoid this situation, ensuring you meet every demand without...
How to Reduce Manufacturing Cost: Turning Rising Costs into a Competitive Advantage
How to Reduce Manufacturing Cost: Key Strategies for Success In today's world of rising manufacturing costs and skyrocketing supply chain costs, it’s more crucial than ever to reevaluate your supply chain strategy. Now is the time to stay open to fresh ideas and...
How CNC Machine Shops Can Compete with China and Reduce Manufacturing Costs
As a CNC machine shop, you know that staying competitive in today's global market is no easy feat. The pressure is on to lower costs, increase productivity, and meet customer demands—all while facing challenges like labor shortages, machine capacity limitations, and...
End Mill Manufacturers: A Guide to Buying End Mills from China
When sourcing tools like end mills, inserts, collets, and drill bits for your machine shop, it's essential to know exactly what you need. This is particularly true when buying from overseas end mill manufacturers, like those in China. While it can be tempting to let...
How to Find a Sourcing Company
When it comes to finding the right sourcing company, it's essential to understand the various options available. From independent freelance Sourcing Agents to large Sourcing Agent firms, each type offers different services and skill levels. Choosing the right one...
EXW vs FOB: A Guide to Understanding the Differences in Importing Goods
When you're starting to import goods, you might come across terms like EXW (Ex Works) and FOB (Free On Board). These terms, known as Incoterms (International Commercial Terms), are essential in determining who is responsible for various costs and tasks in the...
How to Deal with Tariffs: Save Money and Gain a Competitive Edge by Importing Directly from the Factory
How to Deal with Tariffs: Save Money and Gain a Competitive Edge by Importing Directly from the Factory Tariffs, especially the Trump Tariffs, have created a ripple effect across the US wholesale market. If you're a business that purchases goods from US distributors,...
How to Pay Chinese Suppliers: A Comprehensive Guide for Importers
When you're starting out in the world of importing, one of the biggest concerns is figuring out how to pay Chinese suppliers. The process can feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to international trade. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll...
What is Swiss Machining? Understanding the Precision Manufacturing Process
Swiss machining is a highly precise manufacturing process used to create intricate parts with exceptional accuracy. But what is Swiss machining? It is a method known for producing complex components, often with tight tolerances and small geometries, making it...