China manufactures over 70% of the world's plush toys, offering unbeatable prices (from $1 per piece), fast production, and extensive customization. However, finding a reliable supplier requires navigating language barriers, quality control, and complex logistics.
This guide covers:
✔ Best sourcing hubs (Yiwu vs. Shantou vs. Guangzhou)
✔ How to vet suppliers and avoid scams
✔ Pricing, MOQs, and customization options
✔ Shipping strategies for small and large orders
Best for: Small businesses needing low MOQs (50–300 pcs).
Pros:
Huge variety of ready-made designs.
No customization fees (stock items only).
Cons:
Generic designs (hard to differentiate your brand).
Quality varies—inspection is critical.
Best for: Custom plush toys (OEM/ODM).
Pros:
Specialized factories with 20+ years of experience.
Better quality control and material options (e.g., organic cotton).
Cons:
Higher MOQs (500–1,000+ pcs).
Best for: Buyers who want to inspect samples in person.
Key Events:
Canton Fair (April/October)
China Toy Expo (October)
Best for: Comparing suppliers remotely.
Tips:
Look for "Gold Suppliers" with Trade Assurance.
Avoid sellers with no factory photos/videos.
Business License.
Factory Audit: Request live videos or third-party reports (e.g., SGS).
Safety Certifications:
EN71 (Europe)
ASTM F963 (USA)
ISO 8124 (International)
Sample Testing: Check stitching, stuffing, and colorfastness.
"Too good to be true" prices (e.g., $0.50 per plush toy).
No response to video call requests.
Requests for 100% upfront payment (use 30% deposit + 70% after inspection).
| Product Type | Price Range | MOQ |
|---|---|---|
| Basic 20cm plush toy | $1–$3 | 50–300 pcs |
| Custom-designed toy | $3–$10 | 500–1,000 pcs |
| Licensed characters | $5–$20+ | 1,000+ pcs |
Key Cost Factors:
Material (polyester vs. organic cotton).
Size (small vs. jumbo plush).
Packaging (plain polybag vs. gift box).
Private Labeling: Add your logo/tag (cost: $0.10–$0.50 per piece).
Full Custom Design: Provide sketches or 3D files (lead time: 15–30 days).
Safety Compliance: Request lab test reports for your target market.
| Method | Cost | Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | $800–$2,000/20ft container | 30–45 days | Large orders (5,000+ pcs) |
| Air Freight | $5–$10/kg | 5–10 days | Urgent orders (<500 pcs) |
| DDP (Door-to-Door) | Included in quote | 20–40 days | Hassle-free clearance |
Skipping samples (even for stock items).
Ignoring import regulations (e.g., CPSIA for the USA).
Choosing the cheapest supplier (leads to defects/customer returns).
Decide your needs: Stock (Yiwu) vs. custom (Shantou).
Test samples before bulk orders.
Use secure payments (Alibaba Trade Assurance or PayPal).
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