What Is the Turnaround Time for Pet Supplement Manufacturers?

Pet supplement businesses offer a wide range of products to support animals’ health and well-being. Owners can buy probiotics, vitamins, joint supplements, herbal remedies, and more. 

Many want these products as soon as possible without back orders or disrupting their pets’ wellness routines. That’s why choosing a pet supplement manufacturer with quick turnaround times is essential. 

Manufacturing timelines for private-label pet supplements vary drastically based on several factors. Here are a few considerations to help you choose the proper manufacturer and plan your timeline effectively. 

Factors Influencing Turnaround Time

Turnaround time is the length of time between placing an order with a manufacturer and receiving the finished supplements. Three factors can significantly impact this timeline. 

Custom Formulation vs. Pre-Made Products

The type of formula you choose has the most significant influence on the turnaround time. Many pet supplement manufacturers offer two options: pre-made and custom formulas. 

The private-label pet supplement process takes less time. The manufacturer has already developed, tested, and perfected these products. That means brands can choose existing formulas, customize the packaging, and quickly get them to market. 

Custom formulas often have longer turnaround times. Manufacturers develop these products based on the client’s vision and needs. This process involves research, testing, regulatory compliance, and many other steps. However, this option allows your brand to tailor a unique product to your customers. 

Quantity and Scale of Order

The size of your order can also affect the turnaround time. Manufacturers may need more time to produce large-scale orders, especially if you’re ordering tens or hundreds of thousands of units simultaneously. 

Smaller batches can be quicker to produce. However, these orders may cost more per unit than larger orders. Many manufacturers also require a minimum order quantity. 

Raw Material Availability

Manufacturers can only produce your supplements if they have the necessary raw materials. Ingredient shortages and supply chain disruptions can slow down production timelines.

Typical Turnaround Times

The average turnaround time to manufacture pet supplements ranges from 12 to 16 weeks. For custom formulas, this process includes: 

• Research and development 
• Ordering ingredients 
• Formula development 
• Production run and testing 
• Regulatory compliance 
• Quality control 
• Packaging and labeling 
• Shipping 

Pre-made supplements may have shorter turnaround times because the manufacturer has already completed many preliminary steps. Here’s a typical breakdown of the process of producing these types of supplements: 

• Order processing 
• Production 
• Quality control 
• Packaging and labeling 
• Shipping

Every project is unique so timelines can vary drastically. A pet supplement manufacturer can provide the most accurate estimate. 

Speeding up the Process

Many parts of the supplement manufacturing process are beyond the control of brands and retailers. For example, you can’t do much if there’s a global shortage of a crucial raw ingredient or a vital piece of equipment breaks down. But you can manage a few aspects to expedite the process. 

Clear communication with the manufacturer is one of the best ways to decrease the turnaround time. Discuss your expectations and requirements so the manufacturer understands precisely what you want. You should also provide instructions about ingredients, order quantity, and other necessary details. This information will help you avoid misunderstandings and delays.  

Fast responses can also streamline the process. For example, if the manufacturer sends you a prototype of a custom formula, give feedback quickly. You should also respond promptly to questions and updates from your manufacturer. Efficient communication will keep everything moving along smoothly. 

Additionally, a willingness to adapt your plans can speed up the process. The manufacturer may recommend alternative ingredients or production methods to reduce the turnaround time. Remain open to suggestions that can get your pet supplement to market faster without compromising quality. 

Finally, planning can accelerate the manufacturing process. Communicate your plans to the manufacturer as early and in as much detail as possible. That way, they can order the necessary ingredients and fit you into their production schedule. 

Balancing Quality and Efficiency

While many manufacturers aim to have short turnaround times, they should always maintain the quality of the supplements. 

Reputable manufacturers follow strict quality control measures, such as: 

• Raw Material Testing: Manufacturers analyze the purity and potency of raw ingredients before adding them to supplements.  
• Stability Testing: Manufacturers must test finished products to determine their shelf life and storage requirements.
• Certification: Manufacturers can participate in the National Animal Supplement Council Quality Seal Program by becoming a member and following safety measures. The Consumer Laboratory’s Quality Certification Program also tests products. 
• Proper Labeling: Manufacturers are required to accurately label pet supplements with all ingredients, recommended dosages, and other essential information. 

These steps can extend the manufacturing process by several weeks, especially if you’re developing a custom formula. But they’re necessary to ensure that you produce consistent, effective, and safe pet supplements. 

Related Content: How to Get NASC Certification for Private Label Pet Supplements

Choose the Right Manufacturer for Fast Supplement Turnaround Times

The turnaround time for pet supplement manufacturers can vary significantly, even for similar products. Many variables play a role, including the type of formula, ingredients used, and supply chain delays. 

Pet Tech Labs is committed to meeting client needs with fast turnaround times. Our expert team will help you quickly develop and produce your private-label pet supplements without sacrificing quality or safety. Contact us today to talk about your vision and learn about our production processes.