To ensure that any potential supplier knows exactly what your requirements are, they must have a very clear specification, which should include; Product design specification, including all available drawings Materials information, and any compliant standards Tooling requirements - to be manufactured; whether tooling can be transferred; ownership; amortisation Volumes - is  it a one off, irratic repeater or scheduled volume order Packaging requirements - disposable, returnable or special Quality expectations - product and systems (ISO9000; QS9000; TS/16949) Supplier references may help to move production if a supplier already manufactures for Ford, GM, etc Minimum supplier performance for specified KPI's Logistics - supply frequency; transport; scheduling Product introduction and validation launch process requirements