FAQ About Sourcing Components Off Shore

Why should I use offshore sourcing?

The most compelling reason for manufacturers to seek an offshore component source is purely financial. Simply put: expanding profit by reducing the cost of goods sold. Manufacturers and designers need to remain competitive in markets where newer, faster, less expensive products are fighting for the customers’ attention. Most of the passive components found in electronics today originate outside the United States and there is significant savings to be gained by going directly to the source of these components.

Why use CMS?

We are not here to replace your personnel, only to help them with new requirements. Many companies are working with a very lean administrative workforce. Our goal is to use our experience to compliment your purchasing staff. Since we founded the company in 1981, we have invested the time to attend the trade shows, visit the factories, build a library, and register with the online search engines. This means we have already done most of the work for you or at the least we know where to look.

What are my shipping options?

We use both airfreight and consolidated ocean freight. The type we use depends on your delivery requirements as well as the bulk and weight of the product. We will advise you on the most economical method of shipping. Ocean freight destined for Boston is typically unloaded in California where the container is placed on a train for the east coast and on arrival trucked to the final delivery point. Airfreight is typically with UPS, DHL, or FedEx.

Is my shipment insured?

Insurance is purchased for all customer shipments. It is a small expense compared to the replacement cost of your components.

The cost of this insurance is included in the final price you are quoted.

Can I get samples?

Yes. It is important to examine the quality, functionality and craftsmanship of the suppliers work and to be sure that there are no misunderstandings. The best way to start the purchasing process with nonstandard components is to send the vendor specifications, detailed drawings or a “golden prototype” so that there is a clear understanding of what you are looking for.

Vendors that are working with standard catalog items will typically have no problem sending you a sample for inspection. Once you have built up a relationship with a particular vendor you may no longer need to see samples for each order.

How long will delivery take?

Typical delivery times are four weeks plus which ever freight method you choose. Allow one to two weeks for airfreight even though it can be quicker. Ocean freight takes about four to five weeks.

Are there any additional charges?

When we give you a quote we try to anticipate all of the costs involved: foreign exchange rates, wire transfer charges, and customs charges. We will research the product to see if there is a tariff and factor that into the final price. Even when there is no duty, there are customs inspection fees and bond fees that have to be paid.

What will this service cost me?

We can work with your company as a broker and quote you a firm price for each shipment or we can work with your office on a project-by-project consulting basis.

Can I place a blanket order?

Yes. We encourage our customers to take advantage of quantity discounts and place a blanket order with firm scheduled deliveries that extend for one year. We can stock the parts here or we can schedule just-in-time shipments from off shore. The larger the quantity the more economical the shipping costs become.

From which countries do you source components?

We work with those nations where there is a dependable banking system and the export channels are well established. Taiwan, South Korea, China, Switzerland and the UK are a few examples of countries where we do business.

Can you provide components to my specifications?

The manufacturers we work with understand that designers often have special requirements. We will work with you to get the electrical, dimensional and functional specifications you are after. Please call 781-762-4339 to speak with a product specialist.

Component Marketing Services, Inc

4 Meadow Lane

Walpole, MA 02081

P: 508-668-9551 F: 508-668-1588