From Prototype to Mass Production: How Silicone OEM Projects Work

A client called us last month asking the same question we hear at least twice a week: what actually goes into from prototype to mass production? It is a fair question. The answer is more nuanced than most suppliers will tell you.

Here is what we need from you to give an accurate quote: drawings or samples, target annual volume, material requirements, and any compliance standards. Send us just a picture and a vague description, and you will get a vague quote back. The more specific you are upfront, the fewer surprises later.

Sampling usually takes 7 to 15 days after mold completion. We recommend ordering at least 5 samples so you can test them properly. One sample gets dropped on the floor, one goes to the marketing team, one gets lost in the mail. It happens.

The difference between OEM and ODM comes down to who owns the design. If you walk in with a fully developed product and drawings, that is OEM. If you pick something from the factory's catalog and put your logo on it, that is ODM. Both have their place, and mixing them up is how projects get delayed.

There is no substitute for experience in this business. We have made enough mistakes over the years to know what to watch for, and we pass that knowledge on to every client. Lemeng Silicone offers full OEM and ODM services with the kind of quality control that gives you confidence in every shipment.