If you’ve never ordered custom cases from a factory before, the process can feel like a black box. You send an email, then wait, then something arrives.
It doesn’t have to feel that way. Below, we walk through a typical MSACase order from the first message to the shipped cartons, with the real times for each stage.
At a Glance:
- Simple sample: Usually 3–5 days.
- Mass production: Usually 22–25 days after sample approval.
- Small or urgent orders: Can be ready in 7–10 days.
- Shipping time comes on top and depends on your shipping method.
Stage 1: You Send Your Enquiry
You tell us what you need: the item the case is for, the rough size, quantity, foam type, logo and where it’s going. The more detail you share, the faster and more accurate the quote. Our guide on what to send for an accurate quote has a ready-made checklist.
Our team aims to reply within an hour during working time.
Stage 2: We Confirm the Details and Quote
Before we quote, we check the things that change the price and the fit:
- Inside size and whether you gave inside or outside numbers.
- Panel material and colour.
- Foam type and layout.
- Locks, handles, wheels or straps.
- Logo method.
For custom foam, we may ask for photos, a drawing, or one unit of your product sent to our factory.
Stage 3: The Sample Is Made
A simple sample is usually ready in 3–5 days. It takes longer if the design is complex or needs a special colour.
Some samples are free and some are charged. Shipping is paid separately. Agree on this at the start, so there are no surprises.
3–5 Days
For simple custom case designs.
Stage 4: You Test the Sample
This is the most important stage, and the one buyers most often rush. Put your real item in the case and check:
- Does it fit without forcing?
- Can you lift it out easily?
- Do the locks, hinges and handle feel solid?
- Is the logo the right size, colour and position?
- Is the packed weight okay for the people who will carry it?
If something needs changing, now is the cheapest time to change it. Small changes may need a second sample.
Stage 5: You Approve and Pay the Deposit
Once the sample is right, you confirm the order. Standard terms are a 30% deposit to start production and 70% before shipping. Other terms can be discussed.
Standard Payment Terms
30% Deposit: To start production.
70% Balance: Before shipping.
Stage 6: Mass Production
Most orders take 22–25 days in production. Large quantities may take longer, and the sales manager will confirm the date with you.
You don’t have to wait in the dark. We can send photos and videos from each step of production, from cutting the aluminum to fitting the foam.
22–25 Days
After sample approval. Small or urgent orders may take 7–10 days.
Stage 7: Quality Check and Packing
Each case is checked before packing. As standard, every case goes into a bubble bag, then an inner box, then a master carton. If you need special packing, such as retail boxes or barcodes, ask for it at the quote stage.
Stage 8: Balance Payment and Shipping
After the balance is paid, the goods are shipped. We work with EXW, FOB, CFR, CIF, DDU and DDP terms, by sea (LCL or full container) or by air.
- Sea Freight: Cheaper but slower.
- Air Freight: Faster but costs more per kilo.
What Slows an Order Down?
In our experience, delays rarely happen on the production line. They usually come from:
- Waiting for logo files or final sizes.
- Changes requested after the sample was approved.
- Special colours or materials that must be sourced.
- Shipping peaks, such as the weeks before Chinese New Year.
Planning Tip:
If you have a launch date, tell us at the start. We’ll work back from it and help plan a realistic production and shipping schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a Custom Aluminum Case Sample Take?
A simple sample is usually ready in 3–5 days. Complex designs or special colours take longer.
How Long Does Mass Production Take?
Usually 22–25 days after sample approval. Small or urgent orders can be ready in 7–10 days.
What Are the Payment Terms?
Standard terms are 30% deposit and 70% before shipping, by T/T. Other terms can be discussed.
Can I See My Order During Production?
Yes. We can send photos and videos of each stage.
Have a Deadline in Mind?
Tell us your target delivery date and quantity, and we’ll map out a realistic timeline before you commit.