To help you in this process, we have compiled here 10 points you need to consider before selecting a global ball clay supplier
In this world of rapid globalization, it would be commercially unwise to rule out global ball clay suppliers based on their geographic locations. This aspect of clay production is all the more critical as this raw mineral is not found everywhere in the world. As an industry dependent on clay supply, you should always look for options worldwide to deliver high-quality produce cost-effectively.
However, shortlisting global clay suppliers is not an easy task. To help you in this process, we have compiled here 10 points you need to consider before selecting a global ball clay supplier:
1. Credentials and Market Reputation
The claw mining industry is heavily based on credentials and market word. Therefore, the first step you must take is to conduct due diligence about the ball clay supplier, its part work and clients. You can also look for references from the mining company and check with them about how their working experience has been.
2. Production Capabilities and Scale
While conducting the due diligence, also examine the production capabilities of the ball clay manufacturer. Check the mining locations it operates in, the type of processing plants it has and the scale of its operations. The clay supplier must be able to produce and supply as per your need.
3. Map the Logistics Network
When it comes to global trade, logistics plays a crucial role. For example, raw minerals like ball clay are transported in ships and take a reasonable time to reach the destination. Hence, when selecting a global ball clay supplier, map its logistics network in terms of how far it is from a port and how the raw mineral will travel to you.
4. Quality Control
Quality is imperative for all raw minerals supply. If the ball clay supplier delivers sub-standard materials, it can hamper your operations and production. Therefore, during the initial due diligence, always check if the supplier has a robust quality compliance process and competent human resources for the same.
5. Technology-driven Approach
Mining technology is changing very rapidly. Innovations are coming in all steps of processes, be it excavating equipment, clay processing or quality control. Therefore, the ball clay supplier you are finalizing should have its own research and development cell and be keen on adopting new technologies.
6. Analyze Financial Stability
The raw minerals industry is a capital-intensive sector. Financial stability hence becomes an essential factor for validating a ball clay supplier. You can always ask for their commercial structure as that will give you good insights into how well-balanced they are and their ability to take up more work as per your demands.
7. Ease of Communication
Communication is critical in any business transaction, and it becomes all the more important when the parties concerned are from different geographic locations. There is a good chance that the languages used would be different. It is always helpful that you understand the culture of the region the supplier is from and ensure that they are proactive in communication.
8. Contract and Payment Terms
Just like the language difference, there would difference in contractual language. The terms used can be different, and so could be the standard commercial agreements. Hence make sure that you both are on the same page in terms of all terms and conditions and have clarity on payment terms, post-sale services and other points.
9. Understand the Geo-Political Scenario
Given the ever-changing geo-political scenario, you must consider this before choosing the global ball clay supplier. Issues in the political relations between nations always tend to seep down to trade relations and can become a cause of worry. Hence it is better to trade with countries with good or stable relations with yours.
10. Certifications and Compliance
Each country or region has its own set of certifications and compliance. Remember that your region’s compliances or required certificates may not apply to the supplier region. Hence you need to have good clarity on this and make sure that they supply you with materials based on your requirement so that you do not face any legal issues.
Above are some major points you should consider when selecting a global ball clay supplier. Depending on your industry and material needs, additional points will be needed, and it would be a good practice to chart them down during the vendor due diligence process. Opening up to global suppliers can give your business good cost savings and increase your product bandwidth.
JLD Minerals has been exporting ball clay to over 25 nations. With an experience of more than 50 years, it has been pioneering clay mining in India and pushing the envelope for product innovation. Its biggest strength lies in its widespread logistics network. This, combined with its stringent quality control, ensures the timely delivery of high-quality products in any part of the globe.