OEM and ODM: terms you need to know to manufacture hardware in China

Do you know the differences between OEM and ODM? These are two terms you should know if you are thinking of making furniture and construction hardware in China. They are widely used in the manufacturing industry to detail the manufacturing characteristics of each product. Knowing them will also facilitate commercial relations with suppliers and manufacturers. Read more!

Making hardware in China, what do the terms OEM and ODM refer to?

If you have designed a product and have the idea of making it in China, you must know some concepts and terms. It will help you to determine the technical specifications of the product. Working with expert manufacturers in OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) will streamline production processes. As well as distribution channels under the brand you have created or under a third brand.

At IBMH we tell you what it is and how the terms OEM and ODM differ. Concepts to know if you want to manufacture hardware in the Asian giant. Choosing one or the other will depend on the type of product you want to manufacture, the resources, what you want to invest and the time you have.

OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer

With OEM, Original Equipment Manufacturer, you’ll be in charge of technical and design ideas and specifications. In the meantime, the company is in charge of getting it up and running. It becomes the manufacturer of the original product. Under your brand name, the company will create the product and distribute it. Always follow your guidelines while you keep a close look at every step.

ODM: Original Design Manufacturer

In the case of the ODM, Original Design Manufacturer, unlike the OEM, the chosen factory will be responsible for designing and manufacturing the agreed products. Then they will be marketed under a third mark. It is a manufacturing process that allows the one who has had the idea to create such product to develop it under another brand without having to get involved in the entire production and distribution process. The right option if there are resource constraints or you don’t have time to take care of all the design steps. The manufacturer will think for you all the appropriate specifications.

 

What IBMH can do for you if you’re going to manufacture hardware in China:

  • At IBMH we know well that the way we manufacture and do business in China is different from other countries. We have been working here for years, we know first-hand the market, manufacturers and suppliers. Therefore, if you want to develop your product do not hesitate to count on us. Business relationships will be much easier if you count on us as your Strategic Purchasing Management Office in China.
  • Often finding the manufacturer ODM or OEM is not easy, especially if you do not know the country. At IBMH we guarantee that suppliers, manufacturers and distributors will have all the appropriate export and manufacturing authorization certificates in order to properly produce the items.
  • We gather experience in all aspects of the furniture and construction hardware sector. Our team of professional experts will negotiate on your behalf, in the native language of the manufacturers, avoiding any misunderstandings in the process. Our expert hardware inspectors will carry out the necessary quality controls to ensure production success. In addition, we will look after the interests of your brand with total and absolute independence from the manufacturers in China that we recommend you.

If you need advice to start your activity or want to improve the current profitability of your hardware imports in China, do not hesitate, contact us today, we will be happy to expand all the information you need.