How product reviews are typically handled
There are several common arrangements. They differ in who supplies the product, who pays, and how much editorial independence the publisher retains.
A. Product supplied for an independent review
The manufacturer loans or gives WoodCentral a product to evaluate. We test it, write our own review, and disclose that the manufacturer supplied it. The manufacturer does not get to dictate the conclusions.
B. Product loaned for testing
The manufacturer provides a tool or machine temporarily, then gets it back. This is especially useful for expensive equipment, such as table saws, dust collectors, and CNC machines.
We agree on a reasonable testing period and return arrangements before accepting it.
C. Paid sponsored review or product feature
The manufacturer pays for coverage. This is a commercial arrangement, not automatically an independent review. It should be clearly labeled as sponsored, and we will not present paid praise as an impartial assessment.
D. Editorial review of a new product
The manufacturer supplies specifications, photographs, and background information. WoodCentral publishes an independently written introduction or first look, without necessarily conducting hands-on testing.
It will be labeled as a product announcement or first look, rather than implying we have tested it.
WoodCentral review policy
- WoodCentral chooses what to review. A manufacturer’s offer is an invitation, not a guarantee of coverage.
- Reviews reflect actual experience. We will not publish a hands-on review without testing the product.
- Manufacturers cannot buy a favorable verdict. They can correct factual errors, but they don’t approve your conclusions.
- Disclose product arrangements. We state whether the product was provided free, loaned, or purchased independently. We disclose any payment or other material benefit as well.
- Don’t promise publication dates or positive ratings. Testing may take longer than expected, and a product may not warrant a full review.
- Decide what happens to the product. For a loan, arrange return shipping and timing. For a gifted product, determine whether WoodCentral keeps it, uses it for future testing, or gives it away.
The FTC’s guidance explains why disclosures matter: readers may evaluate an endorsement differently if they know the reviewer received a product or other benefit from the manufacturer. Disclosures will appear with the review, not merely on a general policy page.
Contact us if you would like us to review your product.
