Category 2 notes

Supply & Co-Man.

Finding, vetting, negotiating with, and surviving contract manufacturers. MOQ economics, lead times, quote anatomy, cost stability.

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All notes Operator's Desk Supply & Co-Man Powder Lab Compliance Desk Category Intel

An open notebook with a handwritten list of questions, one item crossed out and another circled in yellow highlighter.

Supply & Co-Man

Your MOQ is the wrong question. Here’s what to ask instead.

Every new brand operator leads with "what's your MOQ?" Years ago, I did too. Here's the question I ask first now — and the four others that matter more than the number.

May 19, 2026

A printed manufacturing schedule on a wooden desk with one date circled in yellow highlighter.

Supply & Co-Man

How to read a co-man’s lead-time quote (and what to do when it slips)

After three brands and four manufacturing partners, here's the read I trust. Every "six weeks" you hear has a different anchor — the trick is getting the right one in writing, before you sign.

May 19, 2026