Wholesale Toy Buying FAQ (2026): MOQ, Lead Times, CBM & Landed Cost Explained

The numbers wholesale toy buyers ask about most, in one place: MOQs can start from a single carton, production lead times run 25–40 days, and a 20ft container holds about 28 CBM while a 40ft HQ holds about 68 CBM. Below are straight answers to the most common questions, reflecting typical practice in the Chenghai (Shantou, China) toy trade in 2026.

What is a typical MOQ for wholesale toys?

Usually one carton per SKU at trading level (often 36–144 pieces depending on size), and 300–1,000+ pieces for factory-direct orders. Mixed-SKU cartons are sometimes possible for trial orders — ask.

How long is production lead time?

25–40 days after deposit for standard lines; longer before Christmas production peaks (July–September). Stock items can ship in days.

What does CBM mean and why does it matter?

CBM = cubic meters, the volume of one export carton (L×W×H in meters). Sea freight is charged by volume, so freight per unit = freight per CBM × carton CBM ÷ units per carton. A 20ft container holds ~28 CBM; a 40ft HQ ~68 CBM.

How do I calculate landed cost?

Landed cost ≈ FOB price + per-unit freight + import duty/taxes + testing/inspection amortized over the order. As a rule of thumb, a toy shipped to the US lands at roughly 1.3x its FOB price before local handling.

What are standard payment terms?

30% T/T deposit, 70% against B/L copy is the norm. Letters of credit are used for large orders. Be wary of suppliers demanding 100% upfront.

What certifications should I ask for?

Depends on your market: ASTM F963-23 + CPC (USA), CE/EN 71 (EU), CE under the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 (UK), INMETRO (Brazil), NOM (Mexico). Ask for existing test reports and full material specs before ordering.

Can I get samples first?

Yes — samples are normally free or at cost; you pay courier. Sample-to-order is the standard workflow for new suppliers.

What’s the difference between a factory and a trading supplier?

Factories offer lower prices on their own molds but narrow ranges and higher MOQs. Trading suppliers consolidate many workshops: wider selection, lower MOQ per SKU, one shipment — usually the better fit for mixed-container buyers.

How do I avoid quality problems?

• Approve a production sample before mass production.
• Put packaging artwork and warning labels in the order contract.
• Book third-party pre-shipment inspection (~US$200–300/man-day).
• Check battery compartments, small parts and paint on arrival samples.

Have a question we didn’t cover? LeTin Toys (Chenghai, China) answers buyer inquiries within 24 hours — use the Send Inquiry form on any product page.