Most Chinese pin factories set a minimum order somewhere from a few dozen to a few hundred pieces per design, depending on the process; Shenzhen Wanyang Gifts accepts custom pin orders from 50 pcs. The exact MOQ is less a fixed rule than a result of setup cost: each design needs a mold and a production setup, and a factory needs enough pieces to spread that cost.
Why custom pins have a minimum order
Every new design needs artwork set-up, a steel mold (for die-struck or die-cast pins), color mixing and a plating run. These costs are roughly the same for 50 pieces or 5,000, so very small runs make each pin expensive. The MOQ is the point where a factory can run the job sensibly.
What affects the MOQ
- Mold – a new mold is a one-off cost; reusing an existing mold makes small runs easier.
- Process – soft enamel, hard (imitation) enamel, die casting and printed + epoxy pins each have different setup work. Printed pins usually need less tooling than 3D die-cast pins.
- Number of colors – each enamel color is mixed and filled separately, so more colors mean more setup.
- Plating – gold, silver, antique bronze or dual plating are run in batches; special finishes can push the minimum up.
- Backing and packaging – magnetic backs, custom backing cards or boxes may have their own minimums.
Typical ranges you will see
Smaller, flexible workshops often accept orders around 50–100 pieces; larger factories and trading companies commonly quote higher minimums, sometimes several hundred pieces per design. Some suppliers offer a low MOQ but at a higher unit price. Always compare the total order cost (unit price + mold + sample + shipping), not the MOQ alone.
Wanyang's MOQ, samples and lead time
- MOQ: 50 pcs for pins, medals, fridge magnets, coins and keychains
- Mold fee approx. US$150 and sample fee approx. US$150, each refunded on orders of 500+ pcs
- Free design proof, usually within 1 working day
- Sampling 3–10 working days; mass production 10–20 working days after sample approval; rush from 5 working days (rush fee quoted separately)
Reference starting prices for standard designs are on our pricing & shipping page (approx. US$450 for 100 pcs, US$1,500 for 500 pcs, US$2,250 for 1,000 pcs, ex-works Shenzhen). See custom enamel pins for processes and options.
We are a factory in Pingshan, Shenzhen, founded in 2015, with about 245 staff and roughly 90% of production in-house.
FAQ
What is the minimum order for custom pins at Wanyang?
50 pcs per design, confirmed in your written quote.
Why do some factories ask for 100 or more pieces?
Mold, color and plating setup cost the same regardless of quantity, so many factories set a higher minimum to keep the unit price reasonable.
Does a lower MOQ mean a higher unit price?
Usually yes. Setup costs are spread over fewer pieces; larger runs lower the unit price.
Is the mold fee refundable?
At Wanyang the mold fee (approx. US$150) and sample fee (approx. US$150) are each refunded on orders of 500 pcs or more.
How long does a custom pin order take?
Sampling 3–10 working days after proof approval, then mass production 10–20 working days after sample approval. Rush orders from 5 working days.
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