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5 Things to Watch Out for When Ordering Custom Stuffed Animals Online

5 Things to Watch Out for When Ordering Custom Stuffed Animals Online November 15, 2024

Ordering custom stuffed animals can be a fantastic way to boost brand engagement, delight your customers, and create a memorable promotional item for your brand.

Whether you’re running an e-commerce store, a brick-and-mortar shop, or even just managing a corporate event, these companions will leave a lasting impression.

However, due to their usual large order sizes, ordering them online requires careful consideration to ensure you get the quality and customization you deserve.

Here are five things to watch out for when ordering custom stuffed animals online.

1. Check the Quality of Materials used In Your Custom Stuffed Animals

When it comes to custom stuffed animals, quality is everything.


The materials used and the level of craftsmanship directly reflect your brand’s image and can significantly impact what a customer thinks about your brand.
We use quality fabrics from the stuffing, threading and even the accessories on our custom plush toys so you don’t have to worry. Take a look at our latest custom plushie we brought to life for a food brand in Florida:


Start by inquiring about the fabrics and fillings the manufacturer uses. Make sure your manufacturer uses high-quality plush fabrics and safe, non-toxic stuffing. This is especially important if your target audience includes children.

A picture of Custom Plush Innovation's materials used in Custom Plush Animal Creation


Attention to detail is equally crucial. Examine photos of the manufacturer’s previous work
or request samples to assess the stitching and finishing techniques. Durable stitching prevents the toys from falling apart, which is essential for maintaining a professional image. Quality craftsmanship ensures that your custom stuffed animals are not just cute but also long-lasting, leaving a positive impression on your customers and reinforcing your brand’s commitment to excellence.

2. Look for Transparent Pricing and Terms:


Hidden costs can quickly turn a seemingly good deal into an expensive mistake when ordering custom stuffed animals online. Luckily, if you’re quote shopping, we can tell you a price for free upfront.  Regardless, It’s important to understand the full pricing structure upfront.

Make sure the quote you receive includes design fees, customization charges, shipping costs, and taxes. Some manufacturers may advertise low unit prices but tack on high setup or mold fees that significantly increase the total cost.

Be mindful of Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) as well. MOQs might exceed your needs or budget, forcing you to purchase more units than you require. While some companies offer lower MOQs, they might charge a higher per-unit cost. It’s important to find a balance that aligns with your budget and inventory needs.

Lastly, clarify the payment terms before committing to an order. Understand the payment schedule and be sure to note if your manufacturer require a deposit upfront.

Knowing these details helps you manage your orders effectively and prevents any unexpected surprises down the line.

 

3. Request Detailed Prototypes or Samples

Make sure you can get a sample or prototype before finalizing your order when ordering online. Doing so will save you from costly errors or re-orders down the line. In fact, when you work with us, we always ensure our clients get their custom stuffed animal prototypes before they proceed with the bulk order. Here, we make sure everyone is happy with the look, feel, and quality before proceeding.

However, if you’re working with a new supplier be sure to ask the manufacturer for a prototype of your custom stuffed animal to assess the quality firsthand. This step allows you to ensure that the product meets your expectations and maintains the standard that your brand represents.

Additionally, check that the sample accurately reflects your logo, mascot, or specific design elements. Small deviations in these areas can occur and could impact how your brand is received.

While there might be a small cost for creating a prototype, it will be a worthwhile investment to prevent larger issues or expenses in the future.


4. Research the Manufacturer’s Reputation

Not all manufacturers are created equal, so we recommend researching the reputation of any company you’re considering for your custom stuffed animals.

Start by reading the Google reviews and testimonials from other businesses that have ordered similar products.

Positive feedback regarding quality and communication time is a strong signal that the manufacturer can meet your expectations. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or examples of previous work relevant to your industry; seeing their past projects can provide valuable insights.

Also, consider the manufacturer’s longevity and experience in the industry. A company with years of experience is more likely to deliver a smooth ordering process and a high-quality product.

5. Review Customization Options Carefully

Customization is key when ordering custom stuffed animals, so it’s crucial to ensure you get exactly what you want. Double-check all customization options, including size, colors, logos, embroidery, accessories, and packaging.

Make sure these details are clearly communicated and documented to avoid any misunderstandings. Detailing every aspect ensures that the final product aligns perfectly with your brand’s vision.

Be aware of any limitations the manufacturer might have. Some online platforms may impose restrictions on customization due to templates or design constraints, which could affect your desired outcome.

Confirm that these limitations won’t mess with your vision for the product. Additionally, ensure there is a clear process for approving designs or making revisions before production begins.

Ready to Bring Your Custom Plush Toys to Life?

At Custom Plush Innovations, we help businesses of all sizes promote their brand with high-quality custom plush products. Our experienced Project Managers guide you through our seamless 3-step process: Prototype, Mass Production, and Shipping. Whether you need custom plush toys, teddy bears, or mascot replicas, we’re committed to delivering products that represent your creative ideas professionally. Contact us today for a free quote!