Frequently Asked Questions
The most important is we accept customer's design orders only, there are no open designs to choose from, no stocks or over run items for sale either everything must be your own logo or designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our custom metal products and services.
How do I get a quote and start an order?
Send us your design or idea by email, WhatsApp, or our contact form. Include your artwork, reference images, or even a rough sketch. We will create an initial visual or show similar existing products for your review. Once the design is confirmed, we calculate pricing based on quantity, size, material, and finish. There is no charge for artwork or digital proofs.
What is the minimum order quantity?
We don't set a minimum order quantity, but quantity directly influences the price. The larger the quantity, the more favorable the unit price.
Do you have goods in stock?
We accept customer's design orders only, there are no open designs to choose from, no stocks or over run items for sale either everything must be your own logo or designs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept T/T (bank transfer), Western Union, PayPal, major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), Alipay, WeChat Pay, MoneyGram, Sigue, and Wise. Small amounts are appreciated in full payment due to handling fees.
What is your payment terms?
We require a 30% deposit before we start production. The balance is due before shipment. For long-term partners, we can discuss flexible payment arrangements.
What metal plating options do you offer for your products?
We offer various metal plating options including gold, silver, bronze, nickel, antique brass, antique copper, antique silver, black nickel, rose gold, dual plating, matte finish, and shiny finish. The plating not only enhances the appearance but also provides protection against tarnishing and corrosion.
What materials do you usually use?
Regular materials include brass, copper, zinc alloy, iron, stainless steel, aluminum, and pewter. The best material depends on your design, quantity, budget, and delivery time.
Are you able to manufacture metal products in different shapes?
Yes, we can manufacture metal products in any shape you require. Our advanced mold making capabilities allow us to create custom shapes based on your design specifications.
What file formats are accepted for images and artworks?
We prefer AI, CDR, PDF, or EPS vector files with fonts converted to outlines/curves and images embedded. If vector artwork is not available, we also accept PSD, PNG, JPG, TIFF, GIF, PPT, and DOC at least 300 dpi when possible.
What degree of after-sales service can you provide?
We provide comprehensive after-sales service. If there are any quality issues with your order, please contact us within 7 days of receiving the goods. We will assess the situation and provide a solution, which may include re-production or refund where applicable.
What are the shipping costs for my order?
We have established good relationships with international door-to-door couriers including FedEx, DHL, UPS, and TNT. FedEx priority service takes 2-3 business days, and FedEx economic service takes 4-7 business days. Exact shipping cost depends on weight, dimensions, destination, and shipping method.
How long does it take before I receive my goods?
Typical production time is 10-15 working days after design approval and payment confirmation. Shipping to Europe, North America, and Asia takes 2-3 business days by FedEx priority or 4-7 business days by FedEx economic service. Other destinations may differ.
Do you offer a rush service or rush fee?
We are pleased to try our best to meet your rush delivery time, and we do not charge any rush service fee. Please tell us your deadline when requesting a quote so we can confirm feasibility.
What is the minimum order for a reorder?
There is still no minimum order quantity for reorders. Your molds are kept on file, so you don't need to pay the mold cost again.
Do I need to pay for the molds again for reorders?
No. Every mold is kept for possible reorders, so you don't need to pay the mold cost again.
Can I request ready samples?
Yes, we are pleased to provide free existing samples and pre-production samples for your reference and approval. You only need to cover the mold charge and shipping fee for custom samples.
Can I get a sample before making a bulk order?
Yes. You just need to pay the mold charge and shipping fee to get the sample. The sample itself is free.
What is the difference between die casting and die struck medals?
Die struck medals are created by stamping and trimming metal using a die. This process is suitable for medals smaller than 3 inches wide and 3mm thick. Die casting is perfect for larger, thicker medals and designs with 3D details. It is commonly used for national and international events where a substantial award medal is required.
What is die casting?
Die casting is a metal casting process that involves forcing molten metal under high pressure into a mold cavity. Once filled, pressure is maintained until the casting solidifies. The parts are then polished, electroplated, and color-filled to finish.
What is photo-etched?
Photo-etching, also known as chemical etching or photo-chemical machining, is a process that uses chemicals to etch designs onto metal surfaces. It is ideal for creating detailed, intricate designs on flat metal products.
What is imitation hard enamel?
Imitation hard enamel is a coloring technique that mimics the look of traditional hard enamel but uses a different application process. It provides a smooth, glass-like finish that is durable and resistant to wear.
What is soft enamel?
Soft enamel is a popular coloring technique where enamel paint is applied into recessed areas of a metal product. The enamel is baked to harden but sits slightly below the metal surface, creating a textured feel with raised metal edges.
What is offset printing?
Offset printing is a printing technique where the image is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to the printing surface. It is ideal for full-color designs and photographic images on flat surfaces.
What is the difference between soft enamel and hard enamel?
Soft enamel has a textured finish where the metal edges are raised above the enamel, while hard enamel is polished smooth and flat. Hard enamel is more durable and has a glass-like finish, but soft enamel allows for more color detail and is usually more economical.
What size metal pins should I order?
The most common lapel pin sizes range from 0.75 to 2.0 inches. Average team trading pin size is 1.75 inches, with 90% of teams ordering 1.50, 1.75, or 2.00 inches. Custom pins can be made in just about any size and shape you want.
How do I place an order?
You can place an order by contacting us via email at <a href="mailto:sales@sinoawards.com">sales@sinoawards.com</a>, through our WhatsApp at +86 153 9103 0316, or by filling out the contact form on our website. Our team will guide you through the process.
What information do I need to provide for a quote?
To provide an accurate quote, we need: product type, quantity, size, design or artwork, desired finish/plating, ribbon or packaging requirement, destination country, and any special requirements. Contact us and we'll help you through the process.
Can I mix different products in one order?
Yes, you can mix different products in one order. This can help you save on shipping costs and streamline the ordering process.
Can you match specific Pantone colors?
Yes, we can match specific Pantone colors for your products. Please provide the Pantone color codes with your order, and we will match them as closely as possible.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide. We have experience exporting to North America, Europe, Australia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and other regions. Our international shipping partners ensure reliable delivery.
What is your return policy?
If there are quality issues with your order, please contact us within 7 days of receiving the goods. We will assess the situation and provide a solution, which may include re-production or a refund.
Can I see a digital proof before production?
Yes, we provide a free digital proof for your approval before production begins. This allows you to see exactly how your design will look and make any necessary adjustments.
What metals do you work with?
We work with various metals including brass, copper, zinc alloy, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, and pewter. The choice of metal depends on your product type, design requirements, and budget.
Do you offer design assistance?
Yes, we have a professional design team that can help you create or refine your design. We offer free artwork and proofs to ensure your satisfaction before production.
What is your quality control process?
We have QC personnel at every stage of production, including raw material inspection, mold making, casting/stamping, polishing, plating, coloring, assembly, and final packaging. Each product is checked for quality, consistency, and accuracy before shipment.
Do you offer custom packaging?
Yes, we offer custom packaging options including PVC bags, velvet pouches, plastic capsules, acrylic display boxes, velvet gift boxes, wooden boxes, and paper gift boxes. Custom packaging can be branded with your logo or design.
What is the difference between die-struck and die-cast?
Die-struck products are made by striking a metal blank with a hardened die under high pressure, creating raised and recessed details. Die-cast products are made by injecting molten metal into a mold. Die-struck is typically used for coins and pins, while die-cast is used for 3D shapes.
Do you offer eco-friendly or sustainable options?
Yes, we offer eco-friendly options including recyclable metals and environmentally responsible packaging. Please discuss your sustainability requirements with our team.
What back attachments are available for lapel pins and badges?
Common back options include butterfly clutch, rubber clutch, safety pin, magnet back, brooch pin, screw back, and tie tack. The best backing depends on comfort, safety, cost, retail value, and how the pin will be used.
Can you make police, military, or firefighter challenge coins?
Yes, we produce challenge coins for police, military, firefighter, EMS, veteran, and law enforcement groups. Please provide accurate names, ranks, dates, unit information, and logo authorization if official emblems are involved.
What are RoHS and REACH compliance?
RoHS restricts hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products, while REACH is a European chemical regulation. If your procurement or destination market requires these, please confirm the exact product, material, plating, and destination so we can check available certificates.
Can you add serial numbers, QR codes, or anti-counterfeit features?
Yes, we can add serial numbers, QR codes, unique text, edge numbering, and other verification features to challenge coins, medals, and commemorative products.
What special effects can you add to medals and pins?
We can add 3D relief, cut-out designs, spinner parts, glow-in-the-dark enamel, glitter enamel, transparent enamel, LED light-up features, bottle opener functions, magnetic parts, multi-layer construction, dual plating, and epoxy domes.
Why does my custom product price depend on so many factors?
Custom pricing depends on design complexity, size, quantity, material, process, plating, enamel or printing colors, special effects, packaging, shipping destination, and delivery deadline. Each factor affects material cost, labor, mold complexity, and handling time.
Do you support OEM or private-label orders?
Yes, we support OEM, ODM, and private-label orders for brands, distributors, event agencies, and promotional companies. We can produce neutral or branded packaging according to your requirements.
What is your standard production lead time?
Most custom orders can be completed within 10-15 business days after artwork confirmation, payment confirmation, and final order details confirmation. Rush production may be possible for urgent events.
Where is your factory located?
Our factory is located in Dongguan City, Guangdong Province, China, one of the world's major manufacturing hubs for metal crafts and promotional products.
Who are your main customers?
Our main customers include race organizers, schools and education institutions, corporate buyers, sports clubs, community organizations, charity groups, brands, distributors, and public service groups such as police, military, firefighter, and veteran organizations.
Can you make medals for marathons and running events?
Yes, we specialize in custom medals for marathons, half-marathons, 5K, 10K, triathlons, cycling events, trail runs, virtual races, school sports days, and corporate team-building events.
Can you make custom keychains, bottle openers, or golf accessories?
Yes, we produce custom metal keychains, bottle openers, golf ball markers, magnetic hat clips, divot tools, luggage tags, belt buckles, corporate awards, and other promotional metal crafts.
Can I change my order after production starts?
Changes after production starts may create extra cost because molds, materials, and labor have already been committed. Please confirm all details carefully before approving artwork and payment.