Masterbatch Supplier FAQ: 10 Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Choosing the Right Masterbatch Supplier

Selecting a masterbatch supplier is a strategic decision that affects product quality, cost, and time-to-market. This FAQ lists the ten questions you should ask before committing to a supplier.

What quality control do you perform?

Ask about color measurement (Delta E), dispersion testing, melt flow index testing, and batch retention. A professional supplier tests every batch and maintains ΔE < 1.0 consistency.

What is your color matching capability?

Confirm the size of their formulation database, color matching turnaround (24 hours is standard), and whether they match RAL, Pantone, and custom colors.

What are your minimum order quantities?

MOQ varies — custom colors typically 25–100 kg. Ask about MOQ flexibility for new product development and small runs.

What is your typical lead time?

Standard colors may ship in 3–7 days, custom colors in 7–15 days after approval. Ask about expedited options.

What certifications do you hold?

Look for ISO 9001 (quality) and ISO 14001 (environmental), plus application-specific compliance like FDA, EU 10/2011, REACH, RoHS, and USP Class VI.

Can you provide food-grade or medical-grade masterbatch?

If your application requires it, confirm the supplier can provide FDA/EU food-contact or USP Class VI medical grades with full documentation.

What technical support do you offer?

Ask whether they provide application engineering support, on-site troubleshooting, and guidance on loading ratios and carrier selection.

Do you offer samples?

Professional suppliers offer free color matching and samples within 24 hours. Confirm sample policy before committing.

What is your batch-to-batch consistency?

Ask for their Delta E specification and whether they provide certificates of analysis (CoA) for every batch.

Can you support multiple polymers?

Confirm they have experience across your resin range — PE, PP, PET, ABS, PC, PA, and engineering plastics — with matched carriers for each.

Conclusion

Asking the right questions reveals the difference between a commodity supplier and a quality partner. MHK Color offers 25+ years of experience, 30,000+ formulations, ISO-certified production, and 24-hour color matching. Contact us with your requirements for a consultation.