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Podcast Summary
Sourcing and manufacturing in China can unlock massive cost savings—but only if you do it right. In this episode of the Better Batch Podcast, hosts Alex Koves and Peter Suddard sit down with John Kyle Beaton, Founder of China Product Pros, shares insider strategies for finding reliable suppliers, avoiding costly mistakes, and negotiating better deals.
From avoiding bad suppliers to ensuring product quality and navigating tariffs, John provides practical, step-by-step insights for manufacturers looking to source packaging, raw materials, and equipment while minimizing risks and maximizing profits.
Key Takeaways
- Never trust a “yes” too quickly – Many suppliers in China say “yes” to everything, even if they can’t deliver. Instead of asking “Can you manufacture this?”, ask “What products do you specialize in?” to ensure you’re working with a true manufacturer, not a middleman.
- Price isn’t everything—watch for hidden costs – The cheapest option often hides logistics expenses, poor quality, or unreliable lead times. Always factor in shipping, tariffs, and potential delays before choosing a manufacturer.
- Trading companies vs. manufacturers—know the difference – Trading companies act as middlemen and can inflate costs while creating communication barriers. To avoid this, use 1688.com (China’s domestic version of Alibaba) to get direct factory pricing and cut out unnecessary layers.
- Tariffs and trade shifts demand strategic planning – Don’t react to tariff news with panic. Instead, analyze your numbers, explore supplier diversification, and lock in supplier agreements before new trade policies take effect.
- Pre-planning your shipping can save thousands – The fastest shipping isn’t always the best. Plan ahead to use slower sea freight, compare multiple freight quotes, and never just accept your factory’s suggested shipping partner—they often add markups.
- Strong supplier relationships lead to better deals – Factories prioritize businesses that maintain ongoing communication. Use WeChat for direct conversations, schedule regular check-ins, and visit your factory in person whenever possible to secure better pricing and faster fulfillment.
- You can negotiate every order—don’t be shy – Chinese manufacturers expect you to negotiate, and you won’t damage relationships by pushing for better terms. If you’re not negotiating on every purchase order, you’re leaving money on the table.
- Always get multiple supplier quotes to maintain leverage – Even if you have a preferred supplier, keep a second option. This protects against production issues and also gives you leverage in pricing negotiations.
- Factory audits can prevent quality disasters – A single bad batch can destroy customer trust. Perform pre-shipment inspections, request production photos/videos, and schedule audits to ensure consistent quality and compliance with your standards.
Actionable Tips for Manufacturers
- Review your supplier list – Are you overpaying or working with a middleman instead of a direct manufacturer? Research 1688.com or conduct a sourcing audit.
- Negotiate smarter – On your next purchase order, push for better payment terms, lower MOQs, or faster lead times.
- Get multiple freight quotes – Don’t rely on your supplier’s freight forwarder—shop around for competitive shipping rates.
- Plan for tariff shifts – If new tariffs impact your supply chain, explore alternative suppliers, renegotiate agreements, or adjust pricing strategies.
- Communicate regularly with suppliers – Strengthen relationships by checking in mid-production, confirming lead times, and maintaining direct contact through WeChat.
About the Guest
John Kyle Beaton is the Founder of China Product Pros, a global sourcing and supply chain expert specializing in Chinese manufacturing, supplier negotiations, and cost optimization. With years of experience helping companies source high-quality products at competitive prices, he has guided businesses through the complexities of international trade while reducing risks.
🔗 LinkedIn: Connect with John Kyle
About the Hosts
Alex Koves: As the President and CEO of Mar-Kov, Alex leads the charge in delivering purpose-built software tools that simplify complex manufacturing challenges. His background in operations management fuels his passion for helping businesses optimize their processes. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn.
Peter Suddard: Peter has worked with batch process manufacturers for years, helping them scale and improve their business. He has extensive experience ensuring customer success and driving product enhancements, making him an invaluable resource for manufacturers seeking to scale. Connect with Peter on LinkedIn.