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Frequently Asked Questions

We are asked a lot of questions about who we are, what we do and about the services we offer.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions but if there’s something else you need to know, get in touch.

Who are you?

We are a procurement specialist based in the UK with staff on the ground in China.

Find out more about who we are, we we do and meet the team right here >

What kind of products do you source?

We specialise in setting up the production of new products, but we also can source pre-existing products.

We have sourced a lot of different products over the years and would feel comfortable sourcing or setting up production for most things. Here’s some examples of product ranges we’ve sourced:

•Ceramics
•Textiles (from proprietary sports clothing to heavy duty BBQ covers to canvas tents)
•Injection mould (from gardening products to educational or pet products)
•Packaging

Please see our Case Studies for more details.

Does your company have experience with a business like ours?
The likely answer is yes. We work with large national retailers and lone inventors.

Our process for procurement is the same for both clients and our developed system of checks and measures is used no matter the size of your company.

In terms of product areas, GHL has a diverse portfolio of manufacturers and supply a large range of products from steel valve finishing’s to bamboo fibre tableware.

If you think we can help, book a call with us. If your product is outside our capabilities we may still be able to point you in the right direction

What budget do I need to have?

That’s a tricky one to answer. As a very general rule you need a spend of £5000.

What do I need to know about the products that I want to source before I speak to you?
The below is a basic outline of the information you should have. The more information the better and it is always problematic to discover a requirement has been omitted late in the process.

  • Product drawing or photo
  • Colour outline by pantone or RAL reference
  • Packaging
  • Delivery – timescale and method
  • Quality standard – by sample or compliance reference.
  • What is the minimum order when I am sourcing products with you?

    GHL doesn’t set the MOQ on production. This will be set by our manufacturing partners and is often linked with price. A general rule of thumb is 1000pc but if the unit cost is very low or the customisation high, the MOQ could be higher.

    The opposite is also true. If the unit cost is high and/or the customisation low, the MOQ might be lower.

    What Quality assurance do you offer?

    Sampling is part of the QA procedure as this sets the standard everyone is working too. Using this signed off sample as the standard, GHL also carries out pre-shipment inspections on all goods. If fault is found, our supplier contracts means the good will be repaired or replaced at the manufacturers cost based on the international AQL level 2 procedures.

    We can operate to a higher standard than AQL level 2, but this would need to be discussed and agreed in advance of the ordering being placed.

    Can I get samples of the products I want to source with you?

    Sampling is a vital part of the procurement process. GHL will not proceed to order until a sample has been reviewed and signed off.

    Can you help me build a prototype?

    Prototyping or sampling will be needed. Depending on the manufacturing method there are different options for prototyping. If the item is textiles, then samples are easily made and it is likely several rounds of samples will be needed before we go into production.

    Injection mould or compression moulding is harder as you are likely to need to tool for manufacturing. These tools are made from CADs (computer assisted designs) but you need to sure of your design.

    Small changes to tooling are possible but if you change your mind and want a substantial change to your design, you are likely to need to brand new tool at the same cost as the original.

    How can you help me with logistics?

    In several ways. Firstly, we can organise the logistics from our office in China. We often find we get better rates by organising this in China rather than from the UK. This could be air freight, rail freight, road freight or sea freight depending on your requirements and we are able to ship goods anywhere in the world.

    If you are based in the UK, subject to GHLs terms and conditions, we can arrange delivery to your warehouse, dealing with port to warehouse in the UK as well as customs clearance and terminal handling.

    Alternatively, we are more than happy to supply goods on CIF/FOB incoterms if that is more appropriate for your business.

    We also have the ability to consolidate good either in our office in Xiamen or one of the port warehouses. Consolidation can be very useful if you are buying different products from different supplier but want to keep your shipping cost as economical as possible.

    How long will it take to get my product?

    A standard lead time on production is 45days. Depending on the time of years, this might be longer or shorter but will be agreed with the manufacturer when the order is placed.  

    Delivery by air freight will take 7-10day and delivery by sea freight will be 45-50days into the UK.

    Will you organise delivering of my products?

    Logistics is part of our service and we get very competitive prices from our freight forwarders. If you would like a quote for shipping please send us an email or arrange a call to discuss.

    How much does it cost?

    We vary our model depending on the size of the order, but we normally take a flat ten percent of the cost price. Shipping and import taxes are passed along with no additional cost. With very large orders we will discuss this on a case by case basis.

    How flexible is your service?

    Each project is essentially unique in its requirements and development. Although we have developed from experience our own points criteria for evaluating manufacturers and our critical path outline, the application of this is custom to a project. 

    This means we can work with you on the basis that works for you. If you would like us to oversee manufacturing or just get involved for contract negotiation, please feel free to contact us and we can discuss the options and costs.

    Can you help me to develop a new product?

    GHL is not a product design company but we are more than happy to discuss your product and offer any manufacturing guidance possible.

    We work with several design companies taking products from design to manufacturing. It can be very important to get a manufacturers guidance on a design. There are often small changed required for manufacturing which make a product function correctly and can save cost.

    Can I get a quote without commitment?
    Absolutely. We are more than happy to get a quote for your product and delivery without commitment.
    How can I get in touch with the GHL Procurement team?

    Email, telephone or by booking a meeting through our booking form.