Offshore : Q & A
How can you guarantee quality?
We insure quality:
- through improved and increased communication, setup and implementation of quality systems
- by reviewing, isolating and correcting manufacturing processes
- by working with certified vendors
- with on-site project management
All shipments are 100% guaranteed for quality by Merit Models, Inc.
How can you guarantee lead times?
Each project is handled individually and a critical path is set up to keep the project in line with your lead times. We are in communication with you every step of the way and are always willing to adjust to meet your needs.
What is the average cost saving?
The cost impact of using offshore production capabilities is immense. For example, a relatively straightforward stamped metal component that would cost $1.00 when produced in the U.S. can be acquired for $0.40 if produced in China which would include the cost of shipping and importing.
Why China?
There are many countries that are candidates for overseas sourcing. China, however, combines advantages that are unique to the world's most populous nation. These include:
- One of the world's lowest labor rates
- A well developed industrial base
- A stable economy
- Decades of experience in world trade
Why shouldn't we go to China ourselves?
We feel that there are still significant barriers and complications when working with Chinese firms. There are gaps in knowledge of even the most competent and trustworthy foreign manufacturers, as well as unknowns in areas such as lead time, delivery and monitoring. Merit has a competitive advantage based on the research and consultation we have conducted as well as our expertise in tooling and manufacturing. In addition, by committing to directly oversee tooling manufacture and production in plants, we can assure that products delivered to our customers will meet all specifications and cost delivery goals. Merit is a company that can offer a full range of tooling services strategically designed to meet the needs of our customers.
What are the advantages Merit has to offer?
Our management staff has over forty years experience in the manufacturing of tooling and products both at home and abroad. We offer on-site project management, high quality, competitive lead times, certified vendors, and a hassle-free environment in which Merit handles all of the details.
Why choose Merit over a sales agent?
What gives us a great advantage over a sales agent is that we have manufacturing expertise and in-house tooling, design and prototyping capabilities which these competitors lack. The single function of agents currently in operation are, in essence, to drop off a design specification print in China and leave all interpretation to the Asian vendor. It is our opinion that this does not necessarily result in quality parts and may lead to mistakes, unpredictable lead times and possible loss of critical intellectual property.