# MOQ, Samples and Lead Times: Planning a Custom Drinkware Order

Source: https://www.drinkware-factory.com/blog/moq-samples-lead-times-custom-drinkware/

*A realistic, step-by-step timeline from first inquiry to goods on the water — and the decisions that speed it up or slow it down.*

Published 2026-09-22, updated 2026-10-20.

## Key takeaways
- MOQ depends on how much you customise: stock colours with a logo start low; custom colours, moulds and packaging raise it.
- Samples for most catalogue models take about 7–8 days to prepare before courier time.
- Lock artwork, Pantone colours and packaging before sampling — late changes are the most common cause of delay.
- Plan around Chinese New Year and peak shipping season, when factories and freight are busiest.

Custom drinkware projects rarely run late because of production itself. They run late because decisions arrive late. Here is a realistic sequence and the choices that matter at each step.

## 1. Inquiry and quotation

Send us the model (or a reference photo), capacity, quantity, logo method, colours, packaging and destination. The more complete the brief, the more accurate the first quotation. Our [quote planner on the home page](/#planner) and the inquiry form on every [product page](/products/) capture the essentials.

## 2. Understanding MOQ

Minimum order quantity is driven by what has to be set up specially for you:

| Customisation | Effect on MOQ |
| --- | --- |
| Stock colour + your logo | Lowest — many models from 24–100 pcs |
| Custom powder-coat colour (Pantone) | Higher — coating line set-up per colour |
| Custom printed gift box | Higher — box printing runs |
| New mould or shape | Highest — tooling investment |

Each product page lists the MOQ recorded for that model. If your quantity is lower, ask anyway — stock options sometimes allow smaller trial orders.

## 3. Artwork and proof

We return a digital proof with logo size and position. Approve artwork, **Pantone colours** and **packaging** at this stage. Changing them after sampling restarts the clock.

## 4. Samples

For most catalogue models, samples are prepared in about **7–8 days**, then sent by international express. Use the sample to check:

- Colour against your Pantone reference, in daylight.
- Logo sharpness, position and adhesion.
- Lid fit, leak resistance and heat retention — see our [heat retention test protocol](/blog/how-vacuum-insulation-works-heat-retention-testing/).
- Packaging fit and print.

## 5. Mass production and QC

After sample approval and deposit, production follows the sequence: steel forming, welding, vacuum evacuation, vacuum check, polishing, coating, decoration, assembly and packing. Production time depends on quantity, decoration and season, so we confirm it on the proforma invoice. A pre-shipment inspection — by our team or a third party you appoint — checks quantities, appearance, function and packing against the approved sample.

## 6. Shipping

We quote **FOB China** by default and can also quote EXW, CFR/CIF or DDP. Sea freight suits most volume orders; air or express suits urgent replenishment. Carton dimensions and weights are confirmed before booking.

## Seasonal planning

- **Chinese New Year** (late January to February): factories close for one to three weeks, and capacity is tight before and after. Place orders well before.
- **Q4 peak**: retail and promotional demand plus freight peak. Confirm Q4 programs early in the year.

## Speed checklist

- Send vector artwork and Pantone codes with your first message.
- Decide packaging early (white box, colour box or custom).
- Approve samples promptly and in writing.
- Confirm shipping terms and destination port up front.

Ready to plan? [Send your brief](/contact/) and we'll reply with a quotation and timeline.

## FAQ
**What is your minimum order quantity?** It depends on the model and the customisation. Many catalogue items start from 24–100 pieces with your logo; custom colours, custom packaging or new moulds need higher quantities. Each product page shows the listed MOQ.

**How long does a sample take?** For most catalogue models, samples are prepared in about 7–8 days, plus international courier time. Fully new designs or moulds take longer.

**Which shipping terms do you support?** We quote FOB China by default and can also quote EXW, CIF/CFR or DDP to many destinations. Tell us your destination and preferred terms in the inquiry.