Materials & Processes
Custom Product MOQ, Mold Cost and Pricing Guide
Updated August 28, 2026
Two quotations for a custom product may show different unit prices because they are not pricing the same structure, finish, packaging or quality standard. Comparing only the final number can hide important differences.
This guide explains the main elements of a TUOYUAN quotation and the questions buyers should ask before placing an order.
Our Small-Batch MOQ Reference
TUOYUAN supports small-batch trial orders of approximately 200–500 pieces per design or new SKU for custom polyresin, soft PVC and metal projects. The applicable MOQ is confirmed according to product size, structure, process, tooling, number of colors, finishing, packaging and production conditions.
This is not an unconditional MOQ for every item. A complex product with special components or an inefficient production setup may require a different quantity.
Why Tooling Is Usually Separate
Custom production may require a silicone mold, metal mold, stamping die, casting die, fixture or prototype. Tooling creates the product-specific structure and is different from the unit production cost.
A repeat order may not need new tooling when the design is unchanged and the existing tool remains usable. Changes to dimensions, relief, parting structure or key details may require modification or replacement.
Ask whether the quote identifies:
- Tooling or mold cost
- Sample cost
- Unit price
- Packaging cost
- Testing or inspection cost
- Freight and trade term
- Taxes or import charges, where applicable
What Drives the Unit Price
Polyresin
Size, weight, number of parts, sculpting complexity, mold structure, hand-painting detail, assembly and protective packaging have a direct impact.
Soft PVC
Dimensions, thickness, 2D or 3D structure, number of colors, tooling, printing, hardware, magnets and packaging influence cost.
Metal
Base material, thickness, forming process, relief, plating, color method, special effects, attachments, moving parts and surface protection affect the quote.
Why More Designs Can Increase Cost
An order of 1,000 pieces split across ten designs is not equivalent to 1,000 pieces of one design. Each SKU may require separate artwork, tooling, color preparation, sampling, production setup, inspection and packing.
When requesting a quote, state quantity per design, not only the total quantity.
Packaging and Freight Can Change the Best Option
A lower unit price does not always produce a lower landed cost. Large retail boxes, heavy resin products and inefficient carton arrangements can increase freight. Combining compatible products may reduce duplicate handling, but savings depend on carton volume, weight, destination and schedule.
How to Compare Quotations Fairly
Confirm that each quote uses the same:
- Product dimensions and material
- Relief or 3D structure
- Front and back specification
- Finish and color method
- Attachment and function
- Quantity per SKU
- Quality and inspection requirement
- Packaging specification
- Testing requirement
- Shipping term and destination
If any assumption is missing, ask the supplier to state it before comparing prices.
Payment Terms
Payment terms are confirmed according to the project, order value and commercial agreement.
We do not publish one fixed payment ratio as a universal policy because project risk, tooling, order value and commercial arrangements differ.
What to Send for an Accurate Quote
Provide artwork, dimensions, quantity per design, material preference, desired finish, attachment, packaging, destination market, testing requirements and target delivery date. If a detail is undecided, ask us to identify the assumption used in the quotation.
Suggested internal links: Request a Quote; Custom Polyresin Products Buyer’s Guide; Custom Soft PVC Products Buyer’s Guide; Custom Metal Products Buyer’s Guide; Custom Product Lead Time Guide.
READY TO START YOUR CUSTOM PROJECT?
Share your project details and artwork for a quotation. A confidentiality agreement can be signed before sampling.