Frequently Asked Questions

1. About The Company

Where are your offices based?

Our offices are based in China and Vietnam. Our working hours are 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM from Monday to Friday. However, our sales team is always available to provide support and assist with any inquiries you may have regardless of the time-zone difference.

For more information check out our blogs on Zhuhai and Vietnam.

2. Ordering and Payment

1. How do I place an order?

If you find any of our products interested or suitable with your needs, please send us your inquiry through this Contact Form. Our team members will reply to you shortly.

If you already had designs & product theme or ideas, please send us through our emails info@theodmgroup.com. Our team members will follow up with you shortly.

We accept Bank Transfers, Paypal & Credit Cards. Read more here about iban.

2. I am interested in a product that is not on your website, could it be made available?

Definitely! ODM has a team of Product Development who are able to design and develop an extremely wide range of products. We love a challenge, so feel free to send us any inquiries you might have!

3. How do I check my order status?

We have an online order tracking process which is made available to Buying Office Clients. We give each client a “Critical Path to Production” document to refer to for a tentative timeline and plan for deliveries.

Moreover, our Sales Team members are always available to have you updated with the process & make sure we follow carefully with the timeline.

For more information, read the blog on the key stages of production here.

4. How long does the entire process take?

The process is split into different stages and depends on the type of product you would like. It can take up to a few months or longer (3 – 4 months normally), depending on whether sampling is needed, if a new mould needs to be made, among many other factors. For more information, read our blog on production management or manufacturing products in China.

5. Can I order blank (unbranded) products?

Of course! We mostly manufacture branded products but if you want no markings, then this is less work and less cost for us. Talk to us early about your branding requirements via email info@theodmgroup.com or fil in this Contact Form.

6. What is the Minimum order quantity (MOQ)? Can I order less?

Every product has a different MOQ depending on different factories. However, the MOQ is just a recommended quantity and can be adjustable in some situations as a solution can be found. Read our blog on MOQ tips in China.

7. What if I only have a set amount of budget, can you work with me?

Sure! Speak to us and we will help you find solutions or refer you to other services or alternatives that could work for you.

8. Do I need a mould?

Not every customer or product needs a mould, it would depends on the design and your product ideas. Custom plastic products in new shapes and sizes usually need a mould as an example. Check out our blogs for an answer now.

9. How do I make a mould?

We will find a factory to create a mould for you and for your production. They will create a mould for you but this means that you will be committed to them and cover the cost of the mould. Read our blog on opening new moulds.

10. Can I get a sample? If yes, what is the sample policy?

Yes, you surely can! Samples are available on nearly every product. There are a lot of different samples such as material swatches which are used to approve the materials being used, prototype sampling which shows a product which is similar to the clients, and reference sample which is a previously made product to refer to but is not directly customised for the client. Read our blog on factory samples.

10. Do I have to pay for a sample?

Yes, clients have to pay for samples. Making samples is a time-consuming process as the factory have to take time out to make one product, hence the need for compensation.

11. What is Quality Control (QC)?

Quality Control is an inspection to see if there are product defects and to recognise risks. Read our quality control inspections blog and find out more about negotiating contract penalties with Chinese factories.

12. What taxes will I be charged?

This is dependent on your country and the product you are importing. Our Sales Team will advise you clearly & carefully to you before shipment.

13. What extra payments are there?

Our quotations are very detailed and include all costs for production and delivery as required. If there is any change that causes unexpected charge, our Sales Teams will surely have you updated & guarantee your benefits.

14. What is a specs sheet/proof approval policy?

There are two names for this document. It can be called a ‘proof approval policy’ or ‘specification sheet’ which can be shortened to ‘specs sheet’. This document is to review the client’s design, product and details before going into mass production at the factory. Read our blog on specs sheets.

15. Do you offer rush service?

It depends on the type of product you would like. Our products are quite unique and require time for the entire process. It is easier to expedite the process if the quantity is lower, the product is not complicated to manufacture, or through air shipping at an added cost. If you have a deadline, contact us and we will try our best to assist you.

16. What is digital prototyping?

Prototyping is one of the final stages of the design process. It is an experimental 3D Interactive model of the finished product. Read more on our digital prototyping blog.

Printing and Design

1. Do you offer design services?

Yes, we do! Our sister company, Mindsparkz, is a full-service design agency. Our multicultural talented team of in-house designers from all over the globe can help you with any product design, graphic design, web design, or branding needs! We also offer a retainer program! Feel free to drop an inquiry today!

2. How do I submit my logo & available design?

You can email us & share your ideas include logo, designs, product theme,… via info@theodmgroup.com or our Whatsapp (+84 39 569 3780). Our Sales Team will reply to you shortly.

3. What is a Pantone Matching System (PMS)?

Pantone Colour Matching System is a standard of colours that are mixed among 15 different pigments (including black and white) to form over more than 1,100 spot colours. Read more on our blog on how to use the Pantone colour guide.

4. Why should companies provide clients with PMS colour?

Companies should provide PMS colour as it is hard to match colour shades exactly due to the extremely wide possible variations of one colour.

5. Can factories match my colour 100%?

We will try our best to ensure that the colours match with the most suitable production methods & product materials. This is why PMS is important to guarantee the most accurate match.

6. What is die-cutting?

Die-cutting is a production process to cut or shape a product using a press machine. Read more on our blog for the die-cutting production process.

7. What is a copyright statement?

A copyright statement is proof that your content is protected by the copyright laws.

8. How do Trademarks work?

Logos and designs created by a company are automatically registered trademarks of the owner and copyright holders.

9. How do patents work?

A patent is a form of intellectual property which gives the owner legal right and excludes others from using the design or selling it. Read more about patents in China, evaluating a patent value and what a patent abstract is.

10.What is process printing?

Process printing is used by Inkjet printers and uses four different inks to produce full-colour images. These four colours are Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black.

What is screen printing?

Screen printing is a technique which uses a woven mesh to transfer designs using a squeegee. Only one colour can be used in one mesh. Read more on this blog for silkscreen printing vs heat transfer.

What is heat transfer/sublimation?

Heat transfer, also known as sublimation, is a method of transferring a desired pattern onto a substrate using a heat press. Read our blog on printing methods.

What is foil stamping?

Foil stamping is a technique that uses heat and metallic film. Read more on our blog about printing methods.

What is acid etching?

Acid etching is a process that uses acid to brand metal products like knives, keychain, and metal buckets. This provides a long-lasting and very professional look. Read more on our blog about printing methods.

What is custom gold printing?

Custom gold printing involves real gold which will be mixed with paint and hand-painted onto the product. Read more on our blog about custom gold painting.

What is tarpaulin printing?

Tarpaulin printing is a large sheet of water-resistant or waterproof material crafted from canvas or plastic which has a print of the design on it. Read our blog on tarpaulin printing.

What is embossing/debossing logos?

Embossing is a printing technique whereby the design is raised above the material. Debossing, on the other hand, pushes the design down. Both techniques create unique textures and exceptional visual appeal.

What is laser engraving?

Laser engraving is a unique printing method that uses lasers to create high-quality permanent markings on metal surfaces. Laser engraved logos and designs add a fantastic texture to any product. Read more on our blog about laser engraving plastic.

Can I remove printing?

Yes, in certain cases you can remove printing. Here’s a blog on how to remove silk screen printing.

Sustainable Product Options

1. What materials are used in sustainable promotional products?

Detail popular eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, recycled plastics, and biodegradable options that reduce environmental impact. ODM provides you with a variety of sustainable materials, explore more here.

2. Are eco-friendly promotional products more expensive than traditional options?

Initially, eco-friendly products may have a slightly higher cost due to sustainable sourcing and ethical manufacturing. However, they can offer long-term value by building customer trust and reflecting positively on your brand.

3. Can sustainable promotional products be customized with my logo?

Absolutely! Sustainable promotional products offer diverse customization options, such as eco-friendly inks for printing logos, laser engraving, or natural dyeing. Many suppliers specialize in low-impact printing processes, like water-based inks that don’t contain harmful chemicals.

4. How do I know if a product is truly sustainable or eco-friendly?

Authentic eco-friendly products often come with certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for responsibly sourced wood or paper, Fair Trade for ethically produced items, or GRS (Global Recycled Standard) for recycled content.

Shipping and Returns

1. Which shipping methods do you use?

We use incoterms and different shipping modes including air, courier, sea, and truck.

2. How much is shipping and handling?

Shipping and handling costs vary on where you’re based. Contact us for more specific details.

3. Do you ship internationally? How long does it take?

We ship globally, the time period depends on which country you are based in. Check our blog to calculate container shipping times.

4. What if I am not happy with the final product?

We hope our clients never feel like this. We make sure the product is perfect before going through production by getting samples and making sure it is approved by the client. We also do a final QC test to make sure there are no defects. All these steps are taken to avoid any dissatisfaction. If you are still not happy, please contact our team to find a solution.

5. What is carbon neutral shipping?

Carbon neutral shipping counts the amount of emissions used and balances out the damage through projects that aid in carbon reduction.

6. What is green production?

Compostable paper packaging can be disposed of at home or in a industrial composting environment where micro-organisms remove all packaging threats. It is also known as green waste. When disposed of in a landfill, compostable paper packaging will compost and become a resource. Read more about compostable paper packaging.

7. How do the Chinese holidays affect my production and shipment?

Many factories close for the national Chinese New Year holidays, however every factory closes at different times. Read our blog to find out how the Chinese national holiday affects production shipment.

Manufacturing in China / Vietnam

1. How do you pick factories to work with?

We work with factories which have certain audits to find out how reliable they are. We check for audits such as ISO9000, BSCI, SEDEX and others.

2. What is a BSCI audit?

BSCI stands for ‘Business Social Compliance Initiative’ and is an approach to monitor social standards in the supply chain and ensure good working conditions. BSCI shares the vision of FTA (Foreign Trade Association) which is “Free Trade. Sustainable Trade.” This highlights their values and involvement to develop a system with better working conditions in the global supply chain. ODM works with some BSCI factories. Read our blog on BSCI audit to find out more.

3. Why do you need a buying agent in China?

It’s easy to find a product in China. The hard part is finding a high-quality promotional product manufacturer, which is why it is important to have a buying agent in China. There are also other factors such as communication barriers, time zone differences, the location distance among others. Read our blog on China factory selection and why ODM is the best buying agent to pick.

4. How are factory conditions in China?

Factory conditions vary but generally have to follow a code of conduct to ensure everyone’s safety and fair treatment. Read our blog on making products in China.

5. Can I select a factory that will manufacture using eco-friendly/biodegradable materials?

Definitely! Feel free to add any specific requests you would like for the materials, such as carbon-neutral, plastic-free, biodegradable and we will source from factories who meet your criteria.

6. Should I source my products locally or in China?

It depends on what product you would like, the quantity, your budget and other factors. Contact our team today to find out what the best option is for your company. Read our blog on sourcing suppliers in China.

7. Should I source from Vietnam?

Vietnam is an excellent place to source and manufacture products due to their skilled workforce, trade agreements, and a fast-growing economy. Read our blog on sourcing in Vietnam and everything you need to know about moving production to Vietnam.

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