1. Do they own the mould shop?
Ask who cuts the steel. A factory that runs its own CNC mould shop controls lead time and quality end to end; a trader reselling someone else's output cannot. We cut and maintain our own moulds in Guangdong, so repeat orders are not re-charged and tooling changes are fast.
2. What is the real minimum order?
"MOQ 100" means 100 pieces per design, not per order. If you need six designs, that is 600 pieces minimum. Confirm the per-design MOQ and whether setup is waived on reorders.
3. Will they sample before production?
A pre-production sample is your only chance to catch colour, relief and fit issues before 5,000 units ship. We model every design in 3D for free and ship a physical sample in 5–7 days before any mass run.
4. What tolerances can they hold?
For brand-critical parts, ask for a number. Our moulds are cut to ±0.01 mm positioning accuracy, which is what keeps microtext and 3D logos sharp rather than blurred.
5. Is the material compliant?
For PVC, insist on phthalate-free (ATBC plasticiser). For anything touching food or skin, specify food-grade platinum-cured silicone. Get the compliance statement in writing.
6. What is the true lead time?
Quoted lead time usually starts after artwork approval and excludes shipping. Plan for 12–30 days production plus freight, and confirm peak-season buffers.
7. How deep is customisation?
Beyond the logo, can they do 3D relief, gradient colours, glow or metallic finishes, dual material, and custom shapes? The wider the customisation, the less your programme looks like everyone else's.
8. Do they do private label and blind shipping?
If you are a distributor or agency, you need your brand on the part and no competitor traceability on the carton. Confirm private label and neutral packing up front.
Run this list on any supplier. The ones that answer confidently on points 1, 4 and 5 are the ones worth a purchase order. Our custom PVC keychains page lays out our own answers in detail.
FAQ
How do I tell a factory from a trader?
Ask for a video walkthrough of the mould shop and the production line, and ask who cuts the steel. A trader will redirect or stall; a factory will show you.
Is a low MOQ a red flag?
Not by itself — 100 per design is normal for moulded PVC. Be cautious when the MOQ is far below tooling economics or when the supplier cannot explain how setup is absorbed.
What should a sample cost?
Tooling is a one-off charge; the sample itself is usually modest or free once tooling exists. We provide free 3D modelling and a physical sample before mass production.
Can I get neutral packing for private label?
Yes. Polybag, backing card or plain carton without our branding, shipped to your fulfilment address, is standard for distributor and agency programmes.