Before You Ask ‘How Much?’—What You Need to Know First
When’s the Right Time to Ask About Price?
When you’re looking for a production partner, one of your first thoughts is likely: How much will this cost? It’s an important question—price often plays a key role in the decision-making process. But is it the right move to ask about cost upfront?
Some might say yes, you should always lead with price.
We believe: patience is key.
Why Timing Matters
While pricing is a critical factor, our experience as production facilitators has shown us that asking about cost too early can often complicate the process.
Having a target price in mind is completely reasonable—it’s your baseline for determining whether external production makes sense for your business case. However, understanding the full scope of the project first ensures more accurate and actionable pricing information.
The Challenge of Early Estimates
Many clients want a rough estimate early on. But here’s why providing an accurate number at the start is often difficult:
When we approach potential production partners on your behalf, we provide them with essential details like:
- The material to be handled
- The processes required
- Planned quantities and phases
- Delivery and packaging requirements
- Necessary certifications
For example, let’s say you supply a dry raw material that the partner will grind and package. Here’s what needs to be considered:
- The partner hasn’t seen or worked with your material before—it may be entirely new to them.
- Raw material batches can vary in quality or consistency.
- Additional processing, such as extra drying for high moisture content, might be necessary.
Factors like equipment setup, batch sizes, production frequency, and cleaning requirements all influence the process—and the cost. Packaging choices, whether bulk, small units, or custom formats, add further complexity.
Why Providers Hesitate to Share Pricing Early
Given these variables, most providers are reluctant to give a price early in the process. They want to avoid surprises—and so do you. A rough estimate typically becomes possible after analyzing a sample, but even then, it may include a buffer for unexpected challenges.
The most accurate quote comes after pilot runs, once the partner has gained experience with your material and production requirements. This is the point when negotiating terms becomes feasible.
The Value of Patience
In our experience, patience truly pays off. Rushing the pricing question can lead to misunderstandings or overly cautious estimates that don’t serve your business well.
That said, there are things we can find out early to help you move forward confidently:
- Does the provider have experience with your material?
- What would a test day cost?
Test days are typically charged at a flat rate, giving you an opportunity to evaluate the partner’s capabilities before committing further.
How We Can Help
If you’re searching for the right production partner, we’re here to assist. From identifying experienced providers to helping you navigate the “price question,” we’re ready to support you every step of the way.
Send us a message, and let’s work together to get the answers you need.