Riad Daloussi is a Canadian entrepreneur working in machinery supply and real estate development. He supplies farm and construction equipment across North America and helps overseas manufacturers enter the Canadian and U.S. markets. Working with overseas manufacturers can open big opportunities, but it also brings challenges. From communication gaps to shipping delays, many things can affect success.
Riad Daloussi shares six clear insights on how to build strong partnerships with overseas suppliers. These lessons focus on trust, planning, quality control, and long-term growth. When handled the right way, global partnerships can help businesses expand faster, lower costs, and bring better products to customers.
1. Choose the Right Manufacturing Partner
The first and most important step is choosing the right overseas manufacturer. Not every supplier will match your business goals. It is important to research their background, experience, and reputation. Look at how long they have been in business and what type of products they specialize in. Ask for product samples before placing large orders. This helps you check quality. Also, speak clearly about your expectations. A good partner will be open, honest, and ready to answer questions.
2. Focus on Clear and Simple Communication
Communication is one of the biggest challenges when working across countries. Language differences and time zones can create confusion. That is why messages should always be clear and simple. Avoid complex instructions. Use direct words and confirm details in writing. After meetings, send a summary email to make sure both sides agree on the same points. It is also helpful to set regular meeting times. Even if time zones are different, consistent communication builds trust. When both sides understand each other clearly, mistakes are reduced and production runs smoothly.
3. Understand Local Rules and Regulations
Every country has different rules for manufacturing, exporting, and importing goods. Before working with an overseas partner, it is important to understand these regulations. Check product standards, safety rules, and certification requirements. Make sure the manufacturer follows legal guidelines in their country. At the same time, ensure the product meets the standards of your target market. Shipping rules, taxes, and customs processes should also be reviewed carefully. If these steps are ignored, delays and extra costs can happen.
4. Build Strong Quality Control Systems
Quality control is critical when products are made far away. You cannot always visit the factory in person, so systems must be in place to protect your brand. Start by creating clear product specifications. Share detailed drawings, measurements, and material requirements. The more details you provide, the fewer errors will happen. It is also smart to arrange third-party inspections before shipment. These inspections check the products before they leave the factory. This reduces the risk of receiving damaged or incorrect items.
5. Plan Logistics and Shipping Carefully
Shipping products from overseas takes time and planning. Delays can happen due to weather, customs checks, or port congestion. That is why logistics must be managed carefully. Work with trusted freight forwarders who understand international shipping. Discuss delivery timelines clearly with your manufacturer. Always plan for extra time in case unexpected delays happen. It is also important to calculate total costs. Shipping fees, insurance, duties, and taxes all add to the final price. Knowing these costs in advance helps protect your profit margins.
6. Think Long-Term, Not Short-Term
The most successful overseas partnerships are built for the long term. Instead of focusing only on price, focus on value and relationship building. Treat your manufacturer as a business partner. Respect cultural differences and take time to understand how they operate. Visiting the factory when possible can strengthen trust. When problems happen, solve them calmly and professionally. Strong partnerships grow through open discussion and shared goals.
Conclusion
Working with overseas manufacturers can help businesses expand into new markets and improve product offerings. However, success does not happen by chance. It requires careful partner selection, clear communication, understanding of regulations, strong quality control, proper logistics planning, and a long-term mindset.
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