Small metal machine shop operator in Aus/NZ or SG

[NewMerchant]

Hi,

Long shot I know, but I am looking for a small metal machine shop operator / steel fabricator in Australia, NZ or SG to partner up with to develop and manufactuer home accesories / entertainment furniture.

Thanks

[gregdavidson]

Search Google for "contract manufacterers" in those areas and you might get some good results. However, I wouldn't limit myself to just those territories. Maybe you can see if there's a company in China or India who can get your work done for you.

[NewMerchant]

Yup, been there, done that, so am looking for a personal referral for a small operator in
Australasia.

Both China and India are off the list as there are just too many problems doing business within those countries.

Thanks for the reply though.

[BusinessAdviser]

I would have to disagree with you that "there are just to many problems doing business within [China and India]." Do your homework, research them thoroughly, and you'll be fine.

[NewMerchant]

Hi,

Thanks for the posting, I should have explained for what I need (low volume, niche, precision & complex designed metal products on a JIT basis) the mass markets of China and India aren't quite what I require, hence the requested localised countries….

Btw, for anyone interested in striking out in China by themselves I listed a few pointers for doing business in China….all of this can be avoided with reliable agents. If you have the will for higher margins this is what you have to get past.

- Is the factory company officially registered, and can they prove this? Do you even know what to look for…?
- Can you bankroll an entire a whole container to export, its not cheap
- "Factories" might not have an export license which you must have in order to export…
- Who is checking the goods prior to export, if they are up to standard, correct, packaged correctly, the correct quantity, the correct quantities of each product, the colour requested…
- Who is preparing the paperwork for a multiple product but single export?
- How are you arranging insurance for goods and also get the best deal?

- Finally, did you ever try to get legal redress or compensation in China?

[adamwade]

Those are great points about China.

Dealing with anything in your business requires some expertise. Many people think they can blindly deal with China and hope for the best.

You can find the right factory in China. You just have to look and ask the right questions.

It doesn't matter where the firm you deal with is, just make sure you have a good relationship with them.

It sounds like you have a really clear understanding of your project. I wouldn't discount China, you may be able to find someone great