T/T Bank Transfer
T/T bank transfer is the standard option for most international custom production orders. It is suitable for corporate buyers, distributors, agencies, and brands placing bulk or customized orders. For many projects, production begins after a deposit is received, and the balance is paid before shipment unless different terms are agreed in writing.
L/C for Qualified Bulk Orders
Letter of credit payment can be discussed for larger, qualified bulk orders when both sides agree on the issuing bank, document requirements, shipment terms, inspection expectations, and timeline. L/C terms must be reviewed before production planning because document rules can affect shipping and release timing.
Alibaba Payment When Applicable
For some projects, payment can be arranged through Alibaba payment or Trade Assurance when the order is set up through an approved Alibaba channel. Availability depends on product type, order value, customization scope, and the agreed transaction path.
Typical Payment Terms
Custom production usually requires a deposit before factory scheduling, artwork preparation, mold opening, material purchase, or sample making. The remaining balance is normally due before shipment. In-stock products, urgent orders, and low-value sample orders may require full payment before processing.
Invoices and Payment References
After order confirmation, our team provides a pro forma invoice with item details, quantity, customization requirements, shipping terms, payment amount, and payment instructions. Please include the invoice number or project name as the payment reference so we can match the payment quickly.
Fees, Currency, and Documentation
Most quotations are issued in USD unless otherwise agreed. Buyers are responsible for sender bank charges, intermediary bank fees, beneficiary bank fees, platform fees, or currency conversion differences unless the quotation states otherwise. We can provide commercial invoices, packing lists, and other documents needed for shipment and accounting.
Need Help With Payment?
If you need a pro forma invoice, payment confirmation, split payment arrangement, or remittance document review, contact your CustomInChina representative before sending funds. We will help keep the billing process transparent and documented.
Payment Structure by Order Type
Sample orders, mold charges, packaging development, and bulk production do not always use the same payment structure. A low-value sample may need full payment before dispatch, while bulk production often uses a deposit before scheduling and a balance before shipment. Tooling, custom packaging, and urgent material purchases may require separate confirmation because those costs are committed early.
What Should Be Confirmed Before Paying
Before sending funds, buyers should confirm supplier name, invoice number, product name, quantity, unit price, customization method, payment currency, beneficiary details, and shipping term. If the order includes several SKUs, the pro forma invoice should show a clear line-by-line breakdown so there is no confusion when production and packing begin.
Risk Controls for First Orders
For first cooperation, we recommend starting with a documented sample, small trial order, or staged payment when the project allows it. Buyers can also ask for factory photos, sample videos, packing references, or inspection photos before paying the final balance. These controls are especially useful for custom molds, electronic products, private label packaging, and event deadline orders.
Bank Fees and Currency Differences
International payments can involve sender bank fees, intermediary bank fees, receiver bank fees, platform fees, and exchange-rate differences. The amount received may be lower than the amount sent if charges are deducted during transfer. For time-sensitive projects, payment proof should be shared immediately so the finance and production teams can identify the remittance quickly.
When a Split Invoice Makes Sense
A split invoice may be useful when a buyer needs separate accounting for samples, tooling, goods, freight, or different departments. It can also help distributors pass through product cost and logistics cost to clients more clearly. Split billing should be requested before payment so the documents match the buyer's internal approval process.