Compare suppliers against the same brief
Send each shortlisted supplier the same destination, product type, pack size, quantity, packaging status and delivery terms. If the briefs differ, the prices and lead times will not be directly comparable.
Ask the supplier to identify assumptions and exclusions. A low headline price may omit printed packaging, cartons, inspection, inland transport or other project costs.
Verify the proposed product and controls
Review representative samples and request the applicable product specification. Ask which characteristics can be controlled, which checks are available and how changes in raw material or production will be communicated.
If certificates, test reports or factory documents are required, specify the exact document and check that it applies to the supplier, product and validity period in question.
Look beyond the first purchase order
Discuss packaging-material storage, repeat-order lead time, specification changes and complaint handling. Clear communication on these issues is important for a stable private-label range.
Use a written purchase agreement that records the product, packaging, quality, delivery and documentation requirements for each order.