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DO YOU MANUFACTURE CUSTOM PLUSH TOYS IN THE UNITED STATES?

While we arrange product development domestically, actual manufacturing occurs in our Chinese factories. We work with four of them. Since most customers expect the best pricing, it is cost prohibitive for us to manufacture toys in the U.S. Even the world's largest toy companies manufacture their products outside of the U.S.

IF YOU AREN'T ACTUALLY MANUFACTURING MY PRODUCT, ISN'T IT CHEAPER FOR ME TO DEAL DIRECTLY WITH A FACTORY?

It is cheaper to source directly from a factory. However, there can be many pitfalls associated with this action:

1. Miscommunication - There can be a language barrier where instructions can be misunderstood and even more frustrating to clarify.
2. Shipping Costs - Some factories quote pricing (FOB or Freight on Board) from their port city. (Our own factory port city is Shanghai.) This means that even though you might have obtained a great product price, it is still your responsibility to import the shipment into the United States. This can be an arduous task (at times even for the most seasoned importers) and will involve additional costs outside of the factory's each pricing. If you lack import experience, and unintentionally make an administrative error, the financial consequences could be large.
3. Minimum Quantites - Most factories deal with large companies who may order many thousands of pieces. Therefore, the factory's minimum quantity requirements may be higher.
4. Sample Development - Some factories may charge a fee for samples and may also take weeks to complete.
5. Accountability - Should you receive missing and/or damaged product, depending upon the factory's policies/ethics, they may not replace the product or offer any credit.
6. Availability - Should you need to communicate with a factory, E-mail communications may be sporadic. If you are dealing with a China factory, their time is approximately (12) hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time. This could mean late nights, especially if you live on the west coast.
7. Accessories - Some factories charge extra for tags and packaging.
8. Government Plush Regulations - There are plush regulations for most countries (including the U.S.) You would be responsible for researching and applying for the necessary credentials.
9. Payment Terms - Depending on the factory, they may require a large deposit or payment in full. Many factories also expect payment through international bank wire. If you are unfamiliar with international wires, the paperwork can be intimidating and some banks charge hefty wire fees.
10. Production Timeframe - Some factories can take a month or more just to produce your product.

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE GANN MEMORIALS?

We stand between you and the pitfalls associated with factory direct association.

1. Miscommunication - Since we've worked with the same factories for years, we have learned to better communicate with them on our customer's behalf.
2. Shipping Costs - Our price quote includes all shipping charges from the factory to your door.
3. Minimum Quantities - Due to the number of customers we represent, we are able to negotiate lower factory quantity requirements. Our standard minimum order quantity is 500pcs, but for an added fee (contingent upon design complexity) we can produce orders in quantities as low as 250 pieces.
4. Sample Development - In most cases, our factories can produce samples within 72 hours. We must also collect a sample fee, but it is 100% refundable upon order placement. Fee amounts depend upon sample size and complexity. Upon sample completion, sample photos (including initial and subsequent corrections) are E-mailed prior to sample shipment. Since the customer is responsible for sample shipment payment, the photo approval process can save time and money.
5. Accountability - Again, since we've worked with the same factories for years, we can mediate any potential order issues and hold our factories accountable for replacement and/or credit.
6. Availability - Even though our home office is located on the U.S. east coast, we work both U.S. and China hours. This allows us to be available day and night. We also make every effort to respond to all communications (phone or E-mail) within 12 hours.
7. Accessories - Some packaging (depending upon complexity) may warrant an additional fee. However, a 4-6 color hang tag and sewn tag are always included in our custom plush quotes.
8. Government Toy Regulation - If your are selling product in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and/or Massachusetts, it must be registered with each state. As an importer, our customers' products are always covered under our own registration number.
9. Payment Terms - Our payment terms vary depending upon order quantity. We also handle all factory communication and international wire transfers.
10. Production Timeframe - On average, from the time of production payment, most of our ocean freight orders take 45-60 days for combined production and delivery. Depending upon order quantity, some air freight orders can be completed and shipped within 30 days!

ARE YOU FACTORY REPRESENTATIVES?

We are plush toy designers and importers. We do not work for any factory and can even choose to discontinue a factory partnership if necessary. This position provides us with negotiating leverage.

DO YOU OFFER A NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT?

Yes, please click HERE for our online agreement. You will need to print, sign, and E-mail/mail the page to us.

I DO NOT HAVE SAMPLE ARTWORK FOR MY IDEA. CAN YOU PROVIDE THIS SERVICE?

We work with  a very talented North Carolina graphic artist. His artwork samples and contact information can be provided upon request. Since he is a freelance artist, GANN Memorials, LLC cannot be held liable for any issues associated with his service.

CAN YOU CONFIRM THAT YOUR FACTORY(S) DO NOT EMPLOY CHILD LABOR AND/OR OPERATE UNDER HARSH WORKING CONDITIONS?

Our factories have confirmed that their employees are treated well and have good working conditions. We have posted a couple of photos below.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICING?

While we can't speak for our competitors, our pricing includes all administrative, production, and shipping costs to your door.

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