Short answer: Order toy samples from China before every first bulk order. Expect samples to be ready in about 3–7 days at a Chenghai trading company, with sample cost and freight quoted per item. Check size, materials, packaging, printing and safety markings against your spec, then sign off the approved sample in writing before production starts.
A photo or catalogue line tells you very little about stitching, paint quality, plastic smell, battery compartment fit or carton strength. A physical sample lets you test the product, show it to your retail buyers and photograph it for your own listings. It also becomes the reference that production is judged against, which protects you if bulk goods differ. If you are new to importing, read our complete guide to importing toys from China first.
Not every sample serves the same purpose. Be clear about which one you are requesting so the supplier quotes the right thing.
| Sample type | Purpose | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| Ready stock sample | Check quality of an existing catalogue item | About 3–7 days incl. packing |
| Assortment sample set | Review several items for a mixed order | About 3–7 days |
| Custom packaging sample | Check artwork, size and print on box or header card | Longer, confirm at quote |
| Pre-production sample | Final approval before bulk, taken from the production line | Confirm at order stage |
Timings are indicative and depend on item, stock and destination. Always confirm on your written quote.
Prices vary by item, so we do not publish a fixed figure here. In general, you pay for the sample unit price and international express freight. Many suppliers credit the sample cost against a confirmed bulk order, but this is a commercial agreement, so ask for it in writing. Sample costs and freight are quoted per request and are subject to the final quotation.
List item names or photos, quantity per item (usually 1–2 pieces), your delivery address and your destination country. Mention if you plan custom packaging or colours. Our guide on requesting a toy quote explains what numbers to include.
You receive a quote with sample price and freight, typically within 1 working day. Pay as agreed and keep the invoice.
Ready stock samples are usually prepared within 3–7 days. As a trading company based in Chenghai, we collect samples from several workshops, so mixed sets can be consolidated into a single parcel.
Samples travel by international courier. Ask for the tracking number as soon as it is dispatched, and check customs requirements for toys in your country.
Work through a simple checklist and record the results with photos.
| Area | What to check |
|---|---|
| Size and weight | Compare against the stated dimensions; weight affects freight and CBM |
| Materials and smell | Strong odour, rough edges, loose paint or sharp points |
| Function | Batteries, lights, sound, wheels, moving parts |
| Small parts | Parts that detach easily on products for young children |
| Packaging | Print quality, barcode space, warnings, window or blister fit |
| Carton and inner pack | Pieces per carton and whether it matches your retail plan |
A sample is not a substitute for compliance testing. EN71, ASTM F963, CPC, UKCA, INMETRO or NOM testing is arranged according to your destination, and you can see what each market requires in our toy safety certification guide.
Once you approve, confirm the order in writing, including the item reference, colour, packaging, quantity and MOQ. Typical MOQs are 1–5 cartons per item: battery-operated toys 120–360 pcs, vinyl dolls 180–500, plush 300–600 and inflatables 500–1,000. Production normally takes 25–45 days, with FOB Shantou or Shenzhen. Keep one approved sample on each side so any later dispute has a reference. To plan loading, see the CBM container loading guide, and browse categories such as dolls and plush or educational toys to choose what to sample.
Do not approve a sample verbally, change packaging after approval without updating the quote, or skip the carton specification. Also avoid ordering samples from a supplier who cannot say whether they are a factory or a trading company; our comparison of trading companies, factories and agents explains the differences.
Preparation is usually about 3–7 days for ready stock items, plus express transit time to your country. Custom packaging samples take longer and are confirmed on the quote.
Usually you pay the sample price and freight. Some suppliers credit this against a confirmed bulk order, so agree it in writing. Exact costs are shown on the quotation.
One to two pieces per item is typical. Request extra if you need to send units to a test lab or to several buyers.
No. A sample shows quality and appearance only. Safety testing is done by an accredited lab according to your destination market.
Ready to start? Request a quote and samples here.