I am about to place my first order with a contract manufacturer for an energy drink. I have never done business with this company but have researched them and have not found any problems. However, I am naturally sceptical to put a down payment down and then pay the second half before I receive any product. I have not spoken to a lawyer about this because I'm trying to save some money, so I figured if anyone here has had any experience and advice on how to avoid any problems or potentially being burned. I'm aware of the risks of laying out this amount of money, but should there be a formal agreement signed by both parties before any transaction takes place? Or anything else I should expect and be aware of?

Thank you for your help in advance

Yes, you need to draw up a contract. Verbal/hand shake agreements are worth the
paper they are printed on...ZERO. Performance needs to be stated and terms need to be
agreed on by both parties.

Thanks for the response. Do you recommend I get a lawyer to do this?

Yes. C.Y.O.A. (Cover you own a@@)