For many OEMs, global supply chains that once seemed cost-effective have become unpredictable, slow, and difficult to manage. The disruptions of the past decade—pandemics, geopolitical volatility, freight spikes, and long lead times from overseas vendors—have pushed supply chain leaders to rethink how and where they source critical plastic components.

Reshoring custom injection molding and contract manufacturing work to the United States isn’t just a trend. It’s a strategic move that improves continuity, reduces risk, and enables faster execution.

For supply chain managers, the advantages are clear:

Shorter lead times that make forecasting easier and reduce safety-stock requirements.
Lower supply chain risk by eliminating unpredictable overseas logistics.
Better transparency and control through domestic engineering, tooling, and production.
Higher responsiveness when demand changes or engineering adjustments are required.

Montrose Molders has become the go-to U.S. injection molder for OEM reshoring programs because we deliver the speed, flexibility, and reliability that offshore suppliers struggle to match.

Challenges Commonly Faced During the Reshoring Process

Reshoring is a smart long-term strategy, but that doesn’t mean it’s simple. OEMs typically encounter several predictable challenges when transitioning work back to U.S. manufacturers:

1. Rebuilding or Transferring Tooling

Many overseas tools arrive in poor condition or are not built for long-term reliability. Others require engineering updates or full rebuilds.

2. Uncertainty Around Lead Times

OEMs worry whether domestic manufacturers can match or exceed offshore output at competitive speed.

3. Engineering Gaps and Missing Documentation

Offshore suppliers often provide incomplete DFM support, insufficient tooling documentation, or mold designs that are difficult to modify.

4. Difficulty Finding a Molder Who Can Handle Both Large Runs and Low Volume / High Mix

OEMs need a partner versatile enough to handle high-volume components and also manage smaller programs with frequent changeovers.

5. Cost Transparency

Reshoring requires trust. OEMs need clear, predictable pricing, not hidden freight or duty costs buried in overseas supply chains.

Montrose Molders has built its entire operation to solve these specific challenges, making the reshoring process smoother, faster, and far more predictable.

How Montrose Addresses Those Challenges

1. Advanced Engineering Capabilities

Montrose’s engineering team supports OEMs from the earliest stages of tool transfer or new product introduction. Our engineering focus includes:

DFM Support That Reduces Risk

We collaborate closely with engineers and supply chain leaders to refine part design, reduce molding complexity, and improve manufacturability.

Moldflow Analysis to Predict Performance

Before steel is cut—or before a transferred tool is run—we model flow, cooling, shrink, and warp to prevent costly mistakes.

Material Selection Expertise

From ABS and HIPS to high-performance materials, we advise OEMs on the best resin for durability, functionality, and cost efficiency.

Capability to Handle Complex Part Geometry

We excel in molding large, structural components as well as intricate, tight-tolerance parts that require expert engineering oversight.

2. In-House Tool Making Operation

Montrose maintains a fully equipped in-house tool shop that ensures your tooling stays production-ready for its entire lifecycle.

Tool Maintenance Programs

We proactively maintain, clean, and service tools to extend tool life, reduce downtime, and prevent mid-run failures.

Fast Repair & Turnaround

Because repairs and modifications happen on-site, lead times shrink dramatically. OEMs avoid the weeks or months typically required for overseas tool adjustments.

In-House Expertise

Our toolmakers work side-by-side with engineering and production, ensuring that tooling, quality, and efficiency stay aligned.

3. Fast Lead Times & High Responsiveness

Montrose is built around speed and service—two qualities global suppliers cannot match.

Domestic supply chain = shorter, more reliable lead times
Real-time communication with engineering, production, and quality
Rapid sampling and PPAP support for fast approvals
Northeast U.S. location close to major shipping lanes and OEM hubs

For supply chain managers balancing inventory, seasonality, or end-customer expectations, this speed solves the biggest pain point of offshore sourcing.

4. Ability to Handle Both Large Runs and Low Volume / High Mix

Montrose supports diverse OEM production models:

High-Volume Production

Our machine lineup—including presses from 75 to 1,000 tons—handles high-volume, repeatable programs with tight process control.

Low Volume / High Mix Expertise

We specialize in quick changeovers, smaller production batches, and applications that demand agility rather than massive scale.

Ideal for OEMs Managing Inventory Tightening Initiatives

OEMs looking to reduce warehousing, improve forecasting, or shrink minimum order quantities benefit from this flexibility immediately.

The Bottom Line: Reshoring OEM Work to Montrose Means More Control, Less Risk, and Faster Speed-to-Market

Reshoring is ultimately about building a supply chain that is resilient, responsive, and engineered for long-term stability.

Montrose Molders delivers:

U.S.-based custom injection molding and contract manufacturing
In-house tool making and comprehensive tool maintenance programs
Fast lead times and rapid engineering support
Capabilities for both large production runs and low volume / high mix programs
Reduced supply chain risk, improved quality, and true manufacturing transparency

If your OEM supply chain is considering reshoring—whether a single part or an entire product line—Montrose Molders is ready to support the transition.

Ready to start a reshoring conversation?
Let’s discuss how we can strengthen your supply chain and accelerate your time to market.

Why Reshore OEM Work to United States Manufacturers