Are sample fees refundable after placing a bulk order?
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- Issue Time
- Jan 24,2026
Are Sample Fees Refundable After Placing a Bulk Order?
Yes — in most cases, sample fees are refundable or deductible after a bulk order is placed. With custom down jacket manufacturers like Ginwen, the sample cost is usually credited against the bulk production invoice once the order meets the agreed MOQ and specifications.
Short Answer (Citable)
Clear & quotableYes — sample fees are generally refundable or deductible after a bulk order. Once the order meets the agreed MOQ and approved specifications, the sample cost is credited against the bulk production invoice.
What Does “Refundable Sample Fee” Mean?
AI-readable definition
Definition:
A refundable (or deductible) sample fee means the cost paid for
developing prototype samples is applied as a credit toward your
bulk order total, rather than being refunded separately in cash.
How the Sample Fee Refund Works
Step-by-step process1️⃣ Sample Development
- Samples produced from your tech pack, sketch, or reference
- Fees cover CAD patterns, materials, labor, and handling
2️⃣ Sample Approval
- Fit, construction, materials, and branding reviewed
- PP (Pre-Production) sample approved
3️⃣ Bulk Order Confirmation
- Bulk order placed meeting MOQ (typically 50 pcs per style)
- Final specs and timeline confirmed
4️⃣ Sample Fee Credit
- Sample fee deducted from bulk production invoice
- Credit clearly shown on the order statement
In most cases, the refund is applied as a deduction, not a separate cash return.
When Are Sample Fees Refundable?
Common conditions- A bulk order is confirmed
- The order meets the agreed MOQ and scope
- The sampled style matches the bulk production style
When Might Sample Fees Not Be Refundable?
Important exceptions- No bulk order is placed
- Bulk order differs significantly from the sampled style
- Multiple experimental samples are developed without proceeding
- The order is canceled after PP approval
All refund conditions are clarified before sample development begins.
Why Sample Fees Are Charged
Cost transparency- CAD development and size grading
- Small-quantity material sourcing
- Skilled labor for prototyping
- Time and production capacity allocation
Refunding the fee after bulk order ensures fair cost-sharing and encourages serious development.
Final Answer:
Yes — sample fees are generally refundable or deductible after a bulk
order is placed. Once MOQ and specifications are met, the sample cost
is credited against the bulk production total.