Risk List for Changing Mold Suppliers

Risk List for Changing Mold Suppliers
The implicit cost of changing mold suppliers is often underestimated, with a switching cycle of 3-6 months. Verification, debugging, and spare parts reconstruction are the three most easily overlooked.
Risk 1: Missing drawings and data
The original supplier did not submit the drawings, and the new supplier needs to re survey. Surveying errors will directly affect mold adaptation.
The process parameters are not handed over, and the new mold needs to be debugged from scratch, with an additional 2-3 rounds of trial molding.
Risk 2: Verification cycle
New molds require three rounds of validation: first piece, small batch, and mass production, with a typical cycle of 2-4 months.
During the verification period, the original production capacity cannot be stopped, and running two sets of molds in parallel will increase inventory and capital occupation.
Risk 3: Quality fluctuations
The first batch of molds from new suppliers usually have a higher scrap rate than mature suppliers.
The fluctuation period is usually 3-6 months, and the quality cost during this period should be included in the switching decision.
Risk 4: Reconstruction of spare parts system
The specifications of vulnerable parts have changed, and the original spare parts cannot be used interchangeably.
The spare parts inventory needs to be re established, resulting in increased capital occupation.
Risk 5: Delivery rhythm
The production schedule of new suppliers needs to be adjusted, and the on-time delivery rate of the first few projects is usually low.
The risk of switching between peak seasons is higher, so it is recommended to avoid the third quarter.
Measures to reduce risks
Firstly, the contract stipulates the delivery of drawings and parameters as a condition for final payment.
Secondly, dual source supply, without switching all orders at once.
Thirdly, conduct a small trial order before switching to validate the process, not just the product.
When undertaking a factory transfer project, Xinfeng Mold will first conduct a current situation assessment to confirm the problems of the original mold and the improvement points of the new mold.
Time window for switching
Avoid the ramp up period and peak season of mass production. Switching suggestion should be arranged before the start of the new project.
During the switching period, if two sets of molds are used in parallel, inventory and capital occupation will increase.
Key Contract Points
Delivery of drawings and parameters, warranty responsibility, breach of contract due to delay, and ownership of intellectual property rights must be clearly stated.
Linking the final payment with the delivery of documents is the most effective means of constraint.
Supplier Evaluation
New suppliers should consider cases of the same category, equipment capabilities, and testing methods, rather than just the quotation.
Trial orders are necessary, and clear observation points should be set for trial orders.
Internal Collaboration
Procurement, technology, and quality should jointly participate in the decision-making process for switching.
Switching driven by a single department can easily overlook technical risks.
exit mechanism
When the cooperation terminates, the ownership of molds, handover of materials, and supply of spare parts should be agreed upon in advance.
Review mechanism
Conduct a review every three months after the switch is completed, comparing the quality, delivery time, and cost data.
The review conclusion should be documented as a reference for the next switch.
Customer communication during the switching period should be transparent, and any changes in delivery time should be notified in advance, which is more effective than explaining afterwards.
It is recommended to conduct a full inspection on the first batch of orders after switching, confirm the quality stability with data, and then switch to regular sampling inspection.
After the switch is completed, archive the quotations and quality data of the new and old suppliers to provide a basis for the next decision.
The decision to switch should be documented in writing, explaining the reasons and expectations for future review.
The conclusion of the review should be included in the process document, not just in the meeting minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to switch suppliers?
Answer: Usually 3-6 months, including verification and running in.
Q: What is the biggest risk?
Answer: Missing drawings and verification cycle.
Q: How to reduce risks?
Answer: Dual source supply, first small batch trial order.
Q: When is it not advisable to switch?
Answer: The peak season and the ramp up period for mass production are not suitable.
Q: Do I need to rebuild the spare parts?
Answer: When the specifications change, it is necessary to rebuild the inventory.
Q: Can I get the drawings back?
Answer: It should be stipulated in the contract as a condition for final payment.
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