Toy Industry Glossary: Sourcing Terms
Short, plain-English definitions written by TDmonthly for people who buy, sell and make toys. Regulatory terms link to the official source.
- Golden sample
- The approved sample that mass production must match. Kept by buyer and factory for checks.
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
- The smallest number of units a supplier will accept in one order. Toy factories often set MOQs per item or per color, and new brands can sometimes negotiate lower MOQs for a higher unit price. Related: Request a quote
- ODM
- Original design manufacturer: a factory that sells its own designs for the buyer to brand. Related: Request a quote
- OEM
- Original equipment manufacturer: a factory that makes products to the buyer's design and brand. Related: Request a quote
- Pre-production (PP) sample
- A sample made with production materials and tooling before mass production starts.
- Pre-shipment inspection (PSI)
- A quality check of finished goods at the factory before they ship, usually by a third-party inspector.
Definitions are general explanations, not legal or financial advice. Corrections and questions: [email protected]
