Outsourcing
Lab-to-Lab Dental Outsourcing Checklist
What to confirm with an outsourcing partner before you send your first case.
Scope and confidentiality
Confirm which product categories the partner handles and how confidentiality is handled. For lab-to-lab cooperation, your client relationships should remain yours.
Specification format
Agree a written specification format: material, shade system, margin and cement space preferences, occlusal scheme and finish expectations. Ambiguity here is a major source of remakes.
Digital workflow
Confirm accepted file formats and how scan issues are reported back. Open formats such as STL, PLY and OBJ are commonly supported; confirm specifics before the first case.
Trial cases
Start with a small number of representative cases rather than a full schedule. Evaluate communication, technical review, fit and finish before increasing volume.
Remake and issue handling
Agree how a reported issue is reviewed: what information is needed, how quickly it is acknowledged and how the resolution is decided.
Logistics
Confirm shipping method, tracking, customs documentation and expected transit range for your region.
Communication channels
Agree response expectations and the channels used. Responsiveness during the technical review stage matters more than speed of the production line.
Pricing structure
Confirm how pricing is quoted, what affects it and how volume changes are handled. Request a price list with your actual product scope.