10 Questions to Ask Before Signing with a Contract Manufacturer
Choosing a contract manufacturer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when building a skincare or cosmetics brand. The right partner can help you scale seamlessly, safeguard product quality, and protect your reputation. The wrong one can create delays, compliance headaches, or worse, products that don’t meet your standards.
Before you sign on the dotted line, here are ten smart questions every founder and brand manager should ask.
“What certifications do you hold?”
Check for industry standards like GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), ISO, or specific certifications relevant to your product category. Certifications not only prove compliance, they give you confidence that processes are consistent and audited.
“Can you support me from formulation to scale-up?”
Some manufacturers specialise only in production, while others offer end-to-end services including R&D, formulation, testing, and packaging. Clarify whether you’ll need to bring in outside partners or if the manufacturer can handle it all.
“What’s your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?”
MOQs can make or break a startup. Be upfront about your launch size and ask if the manufacturer offers flexible runs or tiered pricing to help you grow without overcommitting.
“What is your lead time?”
Production timelines vary depending on ingredient sourcing, testing, and manufacturing capacity. Ask for realistic averages and make sure they align with your launch calendar or seasonal peaks.
“How do you handle quality control?”
Request details on their QC process, from raw material testing to finished product inspections. A strong quality program should include traceability, batch retention, and documented checks at every stage.
“Do you assist with regulatory compliance?”
Cosmetics regulations differ significantly between Australia, the US, and the EU. A reliable partner should be able to guide you on ingredient restrictions, labelling, and documentation to keep you compliant in your chosen markets.
"What’s included in your pricing and what isn’t?”
Beyond raw materials and production, there may be costs for packaging, stability testing, shipping, and storage. Get a transparent cost breakdown early to avoid surprises later.
“How do you protect client IP and confidentiality?”
Ask about non-disclosure agreements and IP ownership. Ensure that your formulas and brand information remain your property and won’t be reused without consent.
"What happens if something goes wrong?"
From supply chain delays to failed stability tests, things don’t always go to plan. Ask how they manage setbacks, what their communication process looks like, and whether they have contingency strategies in place.
“Can I speak to other clients or see examples of your work?”
References and case studies can give you confidence in a manufacturer’s track record. A reputable partner should be happy to connect you with existing clients or share anonymised success stories.
Something to keep in mind is that your contract manufacturer isn’t just a supplier, they’re an extension of your brand. Asking the right questions upfront helps you avoid costly missteps and sets the foundation for a long-term, collaborative partnership.
By doing your due diligence, you’ll not only protect your investment but also ensure that when your product reaches shelves, it reflects the quality and vision your customers expect.