The Practical Guide to Sourcing Custom Bags from China (2025)
For most brand owners and procurement managers, ordering custom bags from a Chinese factory is a process full of unknowns. This guide covers the key decisions you need to make before placing an order, so you arrive at your supplier conversation fully prepared.
1. Clarify MOQ vs. Your Volume
Most professional factories set a Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) of 100–500 pcs per style. If you are testing a new design, start with a sample run (typically 1–3 units) before committing. The sample cost is usually refunded against your first bulk order.
2. Choose the Right Trade Term
FOB (Free on Board) means the factory ships to the port of origin; you arrange freight from there. CIF includes cost, insurance and freight to your destination port. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is the simplest option — the factory handles everything to your door, duties included.
3. Specify Your Print Method Upfront
Different materials suit different methods. Silk screen printing gives sharp, cost-effective results for 1–4 colour logos on canvas. For photographic or full-colour artwork, heat transfer or digital printing are better choices. Embroidery adds a premium feel to heavyweight canvas but adds to unit cost and lead time.
4. Ask for AQL Inspection Reports
A reliable factory will conduct pre-shipment inspection under AQL 2.5 standard and supply you with a report and photos. If your supplier cannot provide this, it is a red flag. Requesting a third-party inspection (e.g., SGS or Bureau Veritas) is also standard practice for orders above 5,000 pcs.
