View More Articles
Full Issues
Myths Busted - The Truth about Custom Products
While many people dream of bringing their logo to life through custom promotional products, there are a lot of myths that prevent people from moving forward. Below are a number of hesitations we encounter from customers, and the truth that will set your creativity free.

Myth 1: Custom Products are More Expensive
Truth: Surprising to many, having your own custom promotional product created and sourced overseas can often be less expensive than buying an equivalent generic item. In fact, the savings average about 30%. In addition to less middlemen and warehousing costs, you have the option of changing materials or making slight design adjustments that make production more cost-effective.

Myth 2: Custom Products have Outrageously High Minimum Order Quantities
Truth: While the minimum order quantity is often higher for completely custom promotional products than their generic domestic counterpart, often those quantities are still within reason. For some products, they can be as low as 100 pieces. The one thing to keep in mind is that there are typically flat-fees associated for creating molds, mixing custom colors, or other setup charges. The higher the quantity ordered, the less these fixed costs will affect the price per piece.

Myth 3: Custom Products have Lower Quality Standards
Truth: Like anything else, there are some overseas producers with extremely high standards of quality and others that are less consistent. Often this will fall into the category of "you get what you pay for" but having a trusted source can make a huge difference. When using a proper source for overseas custom products, the quality will be at least as good as domestically produced items, if not better. Custom promotional products are produced to specific design specs, giving the customer a lot of control over the finished product. Also, any reliable sourcing partner will have an on-site quality control unit in the factory making sure the highest manufacturing standards are met.

Myth 4: Custom Products are Risky
Truth: One of the biggest concerns with having products custom manufactured is the fear of the unknown. People worry that the final product will not look the way they envisioned it and they will be stuck with a large quantity of a product they don't like. What they don't realize is that almost all orders for custom promotional products include a spec sample. After a virtual design is approved, the factory produces one piece that is shipped to the customer. Approval on this sample is required before the entire order can be produced. This allows for any changes to be made to the design or materials to ensure the final product meets the customer's expectations. Just be aware that if the changes are widespread, additional tooling or mold fees may apply.

The one main truth that does inhibit the ability to create your own custom promotional product is that the production times can be very long. There are always exceptions to the rule, but the average custom product will take anywhere from 60-120 days to complete, including the design and sample process. If you plan ahead though, custom products are a great opportunity to make something that is uniquely yours and enable you to really stand out and make a strong impression.







$uccessful $eedlings:
Earn yourself prime desktop real estate with custom paper clips molded to replicate your logo, industry icon or product profile. You even have the option of thick gauge steel or PVC color coated.
USB Drives are not the only technology products that can be produced in custom shapes. Custom MP3 players are a perfect giveaway for any event involving music, fitness or summer fun.
Add some flare to your next golf promotion with custom shaped golf tees. Your giveaway will be so unique that recipients will be certain to remember your sponsorship long after the event.