Define what you expect the supplier to provide
In an OEM project, a buyer may bring an established specification or reference product. An ODM project may require more supplier input into product selection or development. In practice, suppliers use these terms differently, so the quotation should state the actual work included.
Confirm who is responsible for the product specification, sample development, packaging format, artwork, compliance review, inspection and shipping documents.
Give the supplier a complete commercial brief
Provide the destination, sales channel, desired litter type, pack size, estimated quantity and delivery terms. Explain the customer need behind each requested feature so the supplier can assess technical suitability.
Ask which requests are standard, which require development and which are not suitable for the selected material. This gives the supplier a clearer basis for the proposal than assuming every fragrance, additive or packaging feature is available.
Set clear approval stages
A typical project may require product sample approval, packaging specification approval, artwork approval and confirmation of the final order terms. The exact sequence depends on the project and should be agreed rather than assumed.
Production timing should be confirmed only after the relevant approvals and packaging-material requirements are known.