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Frequently Asked Questions: Sourcing Ceramic Tableware from a China Manufacturer
If you’re evaluating ceramic manufacturers in China for the first time โ or switching suppliers โ these are the questions we hear most often. We’ve answered each one as directly as we can, based on how we actually operate at our factory in Chaozhou.
About Minimum Orders and Pricing
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
For stock shapes with your choice of glaze colour: MOQ is 300 pieces per SKU.
For custom OEM shapes (new mould): MOQ is 500 pieces per SKU.
For bone china gift sets: MOQ is 200 sets.
If you’re ordering multiple SKUs in one shipment, the total container volume is often more relevant than per-SKU MOQ โ we’re happy to discuss mixed orders.
Can I get a price list?
Yes. Our current wholesale price list is available at artstarhl.com/category/download, or email sales1@artstarhl.com with your target categories and quantities for a customised quote.
Do your prices include packaging?
Standard export carton packing is included. Gift box packaging (individual retail gift boxes, magnetic-close boxes, ribbon) is quoted separately and depends on box specification. We can source packaging domestically and include it in the production price.
About Sampling
Can I order samples before placing a bulk order?
Yes. We offer two types of samples:
Stock samples: Available from our existing inventory. DHL shipping within 3โ5 days. Sample cost typically USD 30โ80 per piece plus courier fees.
Pre-production samples (OEM): Produced after artwork and specification approval. Lead time 10โ15 days.
Do you charge for samples?
Yes, we charge for samples at a rate close to production unit cost. Sample fees are refunded against your first bulk order above USD 3,000.
Can you make a sample in my brand colour before I commit to an order?
Yes. Provide your Pantone reference and we’ll produce a glaze colour trial. Depending on colour complexity, glaze matching takes 2โ4 rounds of test firing. We’ll photograph and ship you a colour-matched sample before confirming production.
About Lead Times
How long does production take?
Stock shapes, standard glaze: 20โ25 days
Stock shapes, custom colour: 25โ30 days
Custom OEM (new mould required): 35โ45 days
New mould development time: 15โ25 days (added before production)
What’s the total timeline from first contact to goods delivered?
For a straightforward repeat order: approximately 35โ45 days door-to-door (sea freight).
For a new OEM project: allow 60โ80 days from brief approval to delivery.
Can you do rush orders?
For standard stock items, we can sometimes prioritise production and offer DHL air freight to reduce total lead time to 15โ20 days. Contact us with your deadline and we’ll advise honestly on feasibility. We don’t rush custom production โ quality checks cannot be shortened.
About Quality and Certifications
What certifications do you hold?
- ISO 9001:2015 โ Quality management system
- Sedex SMETA โ Social and ethical audit
- FDA compliant โ US food contact standards (cadmium and lead leach limits)
- LFGB compliant โ EU food contact standards
Current test reports are available on request.
Can I arrange third-party quality inspection?
Yes. We routinely work with SGS, Intertek and Bureau Veritas for pre-shipment inspection. We can coordinate with your nominated inspector or arrange inspection on your behalf.
Are your ceramics dishwasher safe?
Most of our glazed tableware is dishwasher safe. We test all glaze formulas to 500 dishwasher cycles. For hospitality or commercial use, please specify this requirement at the brief stage so we can recommend the most appropriate glaze type.
About Custom OEM and ODM
Can you develop a completely new shape for my brand?
Yes. Provide a sketch, reference image or dimensions and our technical team will produce a 3D model and plaster prototype mould. Mould development cost: USD 200โ600 depending on complexity. Mould is owned by you after payment.
Can you match my brand’s Pantone colour in ceramic glaze?
Yes, for most Pantone colours. Very bright neons and certain pinks are technically challenging in ceramic firing โ we’ll advise if your colour falls into this category and suggest the closest achievable match.
Do you manufacture fragrance accessories and candle holders?
Yes. We produce ceramic incense holders, candle vessels, diffuser trays and gift-with-purchase ceramic accessories for fragrance and beauty brands. See our fragrance ceramics guide for details.
About Shipping and Payment
What shipping options do you offer?
Sea freight (FOB Shantou): 20โ25 days to Europe, 18โ22 days to US West Coast, 12โ15 days to Australia
DHL air freight: 5โ7 days globally (for small orders or urgent shipments)
CIF/DDP: Available on request โ we arrange freight and customs clearance
What payment terms do you accept?
Standard terms: 30% deposit on order confirmation, 70% balance before shipment.
For established clients with order history: 30/70 T/T or L/C at sight.
Do you have a catalogue?
Yes. Download our current catalogue at artstarhl.com/catalogue.
Still Have Questions?
Email sales1@artstarhl.com or WhatsApp +86 135 3937 6837. We aim to respond within 24 hours on business days.
