How to Brief a COntract Manufacturer
A clear brief is the single biggest factor in how smoothly - and quickly - your formula goes into production.
Why the brief matters more than people expect
Most delays in getting a formula produced don't come from the formula itself - they come from a manufacturer having to stop and ask questions that should have been answered upfront. A thorough brief means fewer back-and-forth emails, fewer surprises, and a faster path from formula to finished product.
What to include
- The full formula document - your INCI list, exact percentages, phase breakdown, and manufacturing method. If you've purchased a Next Labs formula, this is everything included in your PDF.
- Target batch size - how many units or what total weight you're looking to produce, since this affects both pricing and minimum order quantities.
- Packaging details - the exact bottle, jar, or tube you intend to use, including neck size and material, so the manufacturer can confirm compatibility and fill accuracy.
- Target market - which country or region you're selling into, since this affects labelling requirements and sometimes ingredient restrictions.
- Timeline expectations - when you need finished stock, so the manufacturer can tell you upfront if that's realistic.
- Testing requirements - whether you need Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET), stability testing, or other documentation, and whether you already have this or need it arranged.
Common mistake: sending a formula without the manufacturing method, or with percentages that don't add up to 100%. Both of these force a manufacturer to come back to you before they can even quote - costing days before production has even started.
Questions to ask before committing
- What is the minimum order quantity, and does it differ for private label versus custom formulations?
- Is the facility GMP-certified, and to which standard (e.g. ISO 22716)?
- What's the realistic turnaround time from approved formula to finished stock?
- Do they handle testing (PET, stability) in-house, or is this outsourced?
- What's their process if a sample doesn't match expectations - how many revision rounds are included?
A note on communication
Get key decisions - pricing, quantities, timelines, and any formula adjustments - in writing over email rather than a call, even if a manufacturer offers one. It keeps a clear record if anything needs to be referenced later, and it's standard practice across the industry.