Making custom goods is a process. There are many safeguards in place to ensure the product you expect is the product you receive. Communication and expectations must be clear. Physical samples are often a good idea. These safeguards take time and should not be skipped.
If you do not have the time or the patience to go through the process you are not a good fit for a custom project.
If you do have the time, the attention to detail and want to make a fantastic product that no one else can make, that no one else can buy, that will knock the sox off your colleagues and clients then YES you are a good fit for custom.
Are the minimums high?
Not as high as you think. If we’re sourcing an item that’s ten cents a piece the minimum order quantity may be 10k pieces but if we’re sourcing an item that’s $100 a piece the minimum order quantity may be 10 pieces. So, the minimum order quantity will vary from product to product.
Are the turnaround times long?
Longer than domestic production, that’s for sure. What you can anticipate is 2-3 months from concept to delivery. To break that down:
2-4 days: confirm supplier capability, production schedule and pricing.
1 week: You will get a quote which needs to be approved and you have to supply vector format artwork. How long that takes depends on you.
1-3 days: virtual proof. That will need to be approved.
1 day to 2 weeks: pre-production sample. Which will need to be approved.
30 days production
30 days by sea
1 week from port to delivery at your location.
Can the turnaround time be sped up?
Yes. Knowing what we want and being decisive regarding options leads to clearer communication with our supplier, proofs that meet or exceed our expectation and speedy production time. There is a difference between a backpack, a backpack with computer sleeve, a backpack with contrasting side panels, interior sleeve that can accommodate a 16” laptop, an interior pocket for computer accessories and an exterior pocket with organizer.
Yes, if we can approve the quote quickly and have our artwork together.
Yes, if we can approve the proof and pre-production sample with photos rather than a physical sample. Note: This is not always possible. With garments and most other high end products it is wise to get a pre-production sample in-hand.
Yes, if the supplier’s production schedule is less than 30 days.
Yes, if we ship the finished goods by air rather than sea. Note: Shipping light, small objects like USB drives or lanyards is cost effective. Overnighting a pallet of journals is cost prohibitive.
What is the proofing process?
The proofing process is somewhat dependent on what we are sourcing but you can anticipate a combination of or all three of the following: Paper proof, virtual sample, pre-production sample.
Are split shipments possible?
While it’s typically best to ship all goods to one location split shipments are usually possible.
Terms
Typically terms are 50% down and balance when the goods are ready to ship.
Taxes, Duties, Customs
Whenever possible those will be included in the pricing.
Can I use my own shipping account and/or Customs Broker?