How to Get a Custom Bag Sample in 3–7 Working Days
Samples take 3–7 working days. Send the size, material, quantity and vector artwork, approve the print colour against a Pantone reference, and sign off the physical sample before bulk starts. Normal business enquiries receive a reply within one business day; detailed quotations and sample schedules follow specification review.
A working sample lets you check fabric weight, print quality, stitching, size and colour before committing to a production run of 500 pieces or more. This page covers what to prepare, the stages between specification and approval, what the sample fee covers, and what to check when the sample arrives.
What a working sample is
A working sample is a one-off piece made for review against your written specification. Use it to check the intended fabric, print and construction before a bulk order. Before approval, ask the supplier to state in the quotation or purchase order how the approved sample will be used as a production reference and which inspection criteria apply.
What you need to prepare
- Product type — non-woven tote, laminated bag, cotton tote, gift bag, drawstring pouch, liner.
- Size — width × height × depth in cm, or tell us the use (“fits an A4 folder”).
- Material / weight — e.g. 80 gsm non-woven, 12 oz cotton canvas, 6 oz poly-cotton.
- Handles — self-fabric, webbing, rope, leather-look, or none.
- Print — artwork file (AI, PDF, CDR or 300 dpi PNG) and where it goes.
- Colour — Pantone reference or a physical colour chip if you have one.
A reference photo can help explain the style you have in mind. Add measurements or the items the bag must hold, because a photo alone may not show finished dimensions, gusset depth or handle length.
The sampling timeline
The table separates what the buyer provides from what the factory confirms per order. Only the working-sample production time is published; the other dates depend on the specification, the courier route and the approval date, and are confirmed in writing.
| Stage | Buyer input or confirmation | Known time | Confirmed per order |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Specification and artwork | Size, material and weight, handles, print file, colours | — | Artwork suitability and print method |
| 2. Sample fee and shipping | Sample fee plus express shipping, paid by the buyer | — | Amount, courier and destination |
| 3. Working sample produced | — | 3–7 working days after specification and artwork are confirmed | Exact date |
| 4. Sample checked and approved | Physical check against the written specification; written approval | — | Any revision, cost and timing |
| 5. Bulk production | Sample approval and deposit | Usually 15–25 working days after sample approval and deposit | Exact dates, including peak season |
| 6. Shipping | Destination and trade term | — | FOB Guangzhou standard; CIF or DDP on request, confirmed per product, route and order |
No fixed door-to-door total is published: courier transit depends on the destination and is confirmed with the shipment.
Sample fee, shipping and credit policy
The buyer pays the sample fee plus express shipping. The fee is deducted from your first bulk order of 500 pcs or more; the exact sample cost is confirmed with your specification. Free samples are available for stock items with a regular freight account — ask whether your specification qualifies.
What to check when your sample arrives
- Size — measure width, height and depth against your specification.
- Weight and feel — confirm the gsm or oz matches what was quoted.
- Print — colour against the Pantone reference, sharpness of fine lines, logo position and size.
- Stitching — even tension, no loose threads, handle attachment secure.
- Handles and base — handle length and width, gusset and base construction.
- Function — load it with the weight the bag must carry and check the handles and base.
Approving the sample
Record approval in writing and keep the sample. Before bulk production is approved, confirm how the sample will be referenced and what inspection criteria apply to colour, size, print and construction. If anything differs from your specification, list it and request the revision cost and timing before approving.
How many samples should you order?
A single sample lets you review one specification. Consider requesting additional samples when comparing fabric weights or designs, or when more than one stakeholder needs a physical reference.
Common sampling mistakes
- Approving from photos only — screens distort colour.
- Changing the print file after the sample is made — that means a new set-up.
- Not stating the target use and expected contents — important dimensions or construction details may be missed.
- Skipping the physical check on handles and base — check these against the agreed specification and intended use.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a working sample take?
What does the sample cost and who pays the shipping?
Can I get a free sample?
What is the minimum order quantity?
What should I check on the sample?
Can I change the design after the sample?
Next step
Send the specification or a reference photo with any known dimensions. Include the destination so sample cost, shipping and timing can be confirmed for your order. Normal business enquiries receive a reply within one business day; detailed quotations and sample schedules follow specification review. Request a sample or read the sample policy.
EcoBag Factory — custom bag manufacturer in Guangzhou, China. MOQ 500 pcs per style, per colour and per size, 1–2 colour print included, samples in 3–7 working days; FOB Guangzhou as standard, CIF or DDP on request and confirmed per product, route and order.
Keep reading & get a quote
Factory-direct pricing, 1–2 colour print included, MOQ 500 pcs.