What to prepare before starting a supplement order

This guide covers what to prepare before starting a supplement order for brand owners working with a multi-format private-label supplement partner. It explains what to prepare, how personalisation works under Make it Yours, and how DAT Supply routes a project from brief to samples to production — without prescribing dosages or making product claims. The brand owner remains responsible for final claims, on-pack labelling and market compliance in each destination market. By the end, you'll know exactly what documentation, market research, and budget considerations to gather before placing your first order.

1. Define your product concept and target market

Before contacting a manufacturer, clarify your product concept: what format (gummies, sachets, jelly sticks, oral strips, or pet soft chews), what active ingredients, and what target audience. Research your market to understand demand, competitor products, and pricing. For example, if you're targeting athletes, consider a gummy with electrolytes; if you're entering the beauty-from-within space, a jelly stick with collagen might fit. This preparation ensures you can communicate your vision clearly when you Browse the private label catalogue or discuss custom formulations under Make it Yours.

2. Gather regulatory and documentation requirements

Each destination market has its own regulatory framework for dietary supplements. For the EU market, you'll need a product notification, compliant labelling, and possibly a novel food application. For the US, you'll need to ensure cGMP compliance and proper claims substantiation. Prepare a list of required documents: ingredient specifications, certificates of analysis, allergen statements, and any third-party testing reports. Our team can guide you on the documentation route and what you'll need to provide versus what we supply. Remember, the brand owner remains responsible for final claims and on-pack labelling.

3. Determine your budget and MOQ expectations

Establish a realistic budget that covers formulation, packaging, labelling, and shipping. Minimum order quantities (MOQs) vary by format and complexity. Gummies typically have higher MOQs than sachets due to tooling. Request a quote to review MOQ and lead times specific to your project. Lead time is confirmed on the quote, not a blanket statement. Factor in sample rounds — you may need 2-3 iterations before final production. Order samples early to validate your product before committing to a full run.

4. Prepare your brand identity and packaging brief

Your packaging is the first thing consumers see. Prepare a brief that includes your brand name, logo, colour palette, and any design assets. Decide on packaging type: pouches, bottles, boxes, or stand-up bags. For gummies, a resealable pouch is common; for sachets, a carton box works well. If you lack design resources, many manufacturers offer in-house design services. Ensure your labelling complies with local regulations — include supplement facts, ingredient lists, and any required warnings. The brand owner is responsible for final label approval.

5. Understand the Make it Yours personalisation process

DAT Supply's Make it Yours programme allows you to customise existing formulations or create new ones from scratch. You can adjust active ingredient levels, flavour profiles, and colour. The process starts with a brief, followed by a formulation proposal, then sample production. You'll review samples and provide feedback. Once approved, the formula is locked for production. This approach reduces risk and speeds time to market compared to fully bespoke development. [Start order](https://portal.dat.supply/register) to begin the process.

6. Plan your supply chain and logistics

Consider how you'll store and distribute your finished products. Do you need warehousing? Will you ship directly to customers or to retail partners? Discuss shipping terms (FOB, DDP) with your manufacturer. For EU brands, consider working with a 3PL that handles customs and VAT. For US brands, domestic shipping is simpler but still requires planning. Our team can recommend logistics partners if needed. Ensure you have a clear timeline from production to market launch.