Run the sample through a mass-production checklist before you commit to a production run
Grade CBig benefitMoneyLow costSome timeSome willpower
One prototype versus a thousand units differs in where money sits. Yield sets true unit cost. Minimum order and payment terms set how much you advance. Inventory sets when cash returns. Products on the mandatory certification list cannot leave the factory or be sold without certification and the mark on the product.
- Cost
- A few hundred yuan for a small trial batch, plus hours to nail down yield—how many of 100 units are salable. Supplier minimum order and payment terms, cash tied in inventory, packaging and logistics, certifications and licenses, and trademark each need a line. The hard part is not skipping straight to full production.
- Benefit
- The prototype-versus-thousand-unit gap is where capital is locked. Yield sets true cost—yield is what share of a batch is qualified and salable. Supplier minimum order quantity and how long after shipment until you get paid (payment terms) set how much you advance. Inventory sets when cash returns. Products on the mandatory product certification catalogue must pass certification and bear the mark before leaving the factory and being sold. Selling without certification is penalized under the certification and accreditation regulations. Catering and food sales need a food business license (nationwide).
- Notes
- The checklist is practical method; statutory parts were checked at source. Before production, search the CNIPA trademark system for similar marks, then file yours. Trademark and artwork red lines: items 20 and 21. The mandatory certification catalogue follows the latest SAMR list.
Sources · 2
- 质检总局 (2009). 强制性产品认证管理规定（质检总局令第 117 号，第二、四十九条）. gov.cn/gongbao/content/2010/content_1533513.htm
- 市场监管总局 (2023). 食品经营许可和备案管理办法（市场监管总局令第 78 号，第四条）. gov.cn/gongbao/2023/issue_10606/202307/conten…