Injection molding mold ownership is the clause most OEMs skim — until they switch suppliers, dispute quality, or discover the factory cannot locate their tool. In contract manufacturing, the mold is your capital asset even when the partner machines and maintains it.
Three ownership models
| Model | Typical use | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Customer-owned, supplier custody | Standard OEM programs | Low if contract defines export and marking |
| Supplier-owned (consigned) | Very high volume, long tie-in | Exit cost, price leverage shifts |
| Split deposit / buyout | Bridge tooling, cost sharing | Define buyout trigger and residual payment |
Contract clauses buyers should require
- Permanent mold marking with customer name and part number on the plate
- Right to inspect mold condition and location on notice
- Export procedure — who pays freight, lead time, disassembly standard
- No unauthorized subcontract of molding without written approval
- Steel certification matching quote (avoid “steel fraud” on premium grades)
- Maintenance log — spares, parting line wear, last service date
When mold custody goes wrong
Field reports from China sourcing guides cite molds stored off-site without disclosure, duplicate tooling for factory’s other customers, and disputes over unpaid “balance” blocking shipment. Milestone payments tied to documented deliverables (T0, T1, production release) reduce leverage asymmetry.
Transferring molds between contract manufacturers
- Document current process: resin, cycle, cooling, fixturing
- Ship with last good sample and dimensional report
- Qualify at receiving molder with tryout — expect tuning cost
- Update CAD revision if engineering changes accumulated
Transfer is viable but rarely free — budget re-qualification time in program schedule.
Deuchi policy approach
We define ownership, custody, and maintenance in writing before deposit. Customers engaging mold build through Deuchi receive steel spec and cavitation in the quote — not after award.
FAQ
Who pays for mold repair after warranty?
Define wear vs damage vs engineering change. Normal wear is often supplier; design change is customer.
Can the factory hold the mold hostage?
Clear payment terms and export rights in a standalone tooling agreement reduce this risk — legal review recommended.
Should we insure molds in custody?
High-value multi-cavity tools often warrant transit and custody insurance — especially across borders.
Next step: Discuss tooling terms on your next contract manufacturing program.