China has become the go-to destination for custom board game manufacturing. With access to a wide range of materials, experienced suppliers, and competitive pricing, it’s no wonder that game creators around the world turn to Chinese manufacturers. However, success isn't guaranteed. Many creators—especially first-timers—encounter delays, cost overruns, and quality issues that could have been avoided with proper preparation and knowledge. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the most common mistakes made when ordering custom board games from China, and how to avoid them. Whether you’re a game designer, publisher, or procurement professional, these insights can help you save time, money, and stress.

1. Not Having a Complete Game Specification Document 

One of the most common and costly mistakes is sending incomplete or vague instructions to the manufacturer. A complete specification sheet should include details about every game component: game board dimensions, card sizes, number of pieces, materials used, color references (Pantone codes), artwork, packaging requirements, and any compliance or safety standards (such as CE, ASTM, or EN71). Failing to provide this leads to misinterpretation and often results in defective or unsatisfactory samples. A manufacturer is not responsible for guessing your intentions—everything must be explicitly documented.

2. Failing to Request a Pre-Production Sample (PPS) 

Skipping the pre-production sample is like approving a meal without tasting it. Even if you’ve provided detailed specs, misunderstandings happen. A pre-production sample ensures that your board game looks and functions as intended. It allows you to evaluate material quality, print accuracy, assembly, and packaging before mass production begins. Some creators view samples as an unnecessary expense or delay. But approving a flawed design after 5,000 units are printed can cost exponentially more.

3. Choosing the Cheapest Manufacturer Instead of the Right One 

Many newcomers fall into the trap of selecting the lowest bidder. While saving money is important, ultra-low quotes often indicate corners will be cut—on materials, labor conditions, or quality control. The right manufacturer may not be the cheapest but will offer transparency, consistency, and customer service. Vet potential suppliers through reviews, samples, factory audits, and video calls. Look for experience in the board game sector, proper certifications, and clear English communication.

4. Ignoring Intellectual Property (IP) Protections 

Not protecting your game’s intellectual property can lead to knock-offs, idea theft, or unauthorized reselling. Register your IP in China—even if you already have protection in your own country. File for Chinese trademarks, use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and, more importantly, non-use and non-circumvention (NNN) agreements. Avoid working with multiple manufacturers on the same product without clear agreements. Share artwork and proprietary game mechanics only after contracts are in place.

5. Inadequate Quality Control Planning 

Assuming your supplier will self-police their production line is a costly gamble. Quality control should be proactive, not reactive. This means scheduling third-party inspections: First Article Inspections (FAI), During Production Inspections (DPI), and Pre-Shipment Inspections (PSI). Use services like QIMA, SGS, or Bureau Veritas. Always include acceptable quality limits (AQLs) in your purchase order. Also, get photographic proof of completed batches before paying the final balance.

6. Poor Communication and Assumptions 

Many issues stem from unclear, unverified communication. For example, assuming your manufacturer understands your region’s packaging laws or thinks “blue” means the same Pantone shade you had in mind. Be specific and document every decision in writing. Use diagrams, photos, and callouts. Repeat critical details. Use email or platforms like WeChat, but always confirm verbal agreements with a written summary.

7. Not Accounting for Shipping, Duties, and Delays 

The total cost of manufacturing includes more than the factory invoice. Many game creators forget to factor in shipping charges (air vs. sea), customs duties, tariffs, warehousing, and last-mile delivery. Delays can also happen due to weather, customs inspection, or holidays like Chinese New Year. Build in 15–20% buffer time into your launch schedule. Use experienced freight forwarders who understand game components and international compliance.

8. Relying Solely on Digital Proofs for Print Approval 

Approving a digital proof on your screen is not the same as holding the final product. Screens vary in color calibration. What looks like deep green on your monitor might be blue-gray in print. Always request a printed proof, even if it means added time. Especially for cards, boxes, and boards with extensive artwork, a physical review ensures color accuracy, print alignment, texture, and finish.

9. Forgetting to Test Component Fit and Durability 

A game isn’t just a visual experience—it’s tactile. Will the dice fit into the insert? Are the cards slippery or too thick to shuffle? Do tiles warp over time? These are usability questions that affect player experience. Test your game like your audience would. Shake the box. Try assembling and disassembling inserts. Pay attention to how the pieces feel, stack, slide, and store. Only approve mass production after all parts work in harmony.

10. Not Understanding Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) 

Chinese manufacturers often require MOQs to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Some creators assume they can start with 100 units, only to find most factories demand at least 500–1000 units depending on the complexity. Attempting to negotiate without understanding factory limitations can hurt the relationship or result in price hikes. Know the MOQs for each component—cards, boards, dice, tokens, boxes—and plan accordingly.

11. Overcomplicating the Game Design Without Considering Manufacturing Constraints 

While innovation is great, overcomplicating your design without understanding production implications can lead to higher costs or manufacturing errors. For example, irregular board shapes, UV spot finishes, magnetic closures, or custom-cut tokens can cause delays if not well-planned. Work with your manufacturer early to understand feasibility. Sometimes simplifying a few elements results in more durable, playable, and affordable games.

12. Failing to Build a Relationship with the Manufacturer 

In China, relationships (guanxi) play a crucial role in business. Treating your supplier like a vendor instead of a partner can affect service quality. A respectful, collaborative approach yields better communication, priority handling, and sometimes favorable pricing or flexibility. Share your goals, send thank-you notes, and express appreciation. Strong rapport goes a long way in securing long-term success.

13. Ignoring Environmental and Safety Certifications 

Your game might be intended for kids, families, or schools. This means it needs to meet specific environmental and safety standards such as EN71, ASTM F963, or REACH. If you ignore these certifications, your shipment can be rejected at customs or cause legal issues. Ask your manufacturer to show compliance certifications and test reports. These not only ensure safety but also build trust with your customers.

14. Not Planning for Reorders or Scalability 

Many game creators only think about their first print run. But what if your game becomes a hit? Can your manufacturer quickly scale production? Will they keep your molds, dies, and templates safe for future use? Plan ahead by confirming how long your supplier stores files and tooling. Negotiate pricing tiers for larger batches. A good factory will help you grow, not just fulfill your first order.

15. Underestimating the Time Needed for Artwork Preparation 

Creating high-resolution, print-ready files that match the manufacturer’s die lines and specifications takes time. Many creators delay artwork prep until the last minute, leading to errors, print defects, and delays. Work with a graphic designer familiar with packaging and game components. Align your files with the manufacturer’s layout and include bleed areas, cut lines, and resolution standards. Always test print your artwork at 100% scale.

16. Misunderstanding Tooling and Setup Costs 

Custom elements like plastic miniatures, metal coins, or custom-molded components require tooling—custom dies or molds created at the factory. Tooling is a one-time cost but can be substantial. Some creators misunderstand this and are surprised by a large upfront fee. Always ask for a breakdown of tooling costs, what’s included, and whether the molds are reusable. Clarify who owns the mold and how long it will be stored.

17. Rushing the Process to Meet a Launch Date 

Tight schedules lead to poor decisions. Rushing artwork, skipping samples, or approving without testing are all recipes for regret. If you’re launching on Kickstarter or a retail deadline, plan your timeline months in advance. Allow time for iterations, corrections, shipping, and unforeseen hiccups. Never prioritize speed over quality.

18. Not Having a Contingency Plan 

Things can go wrong: delays, quality issues, or unexpected costs. Always have a contingency plan. This includes backup funds, alternate shipping methods, a second supplier for components, and a communication plan for your customers. Transparency with your backers or retail partners during delays builds credibility.

Conclusion 

Ordering custom board games from China offers massive potential but also carries risks. By avoiding the common mistakes outlined in this guide, you’ll be better prepared to manage your project successfully—from prototype to production to delivery. Work closely with experienced partners like Kylin Manufactory, document every detail, and plan your timeline and budget with foresight. With the right preparation, your game won’t just be manufactured—it will be a product of quality, consistency, and global success.

Since 1995, as a licensed, direct and professional manufacturer in China, Kylin Manufactory has become one of the leading companies in the industry.We are OEM/ODM manufacturer and exporter specializing in producing board games, card games, playing cards, game components, packaging boxes, and accessories. Produce game and create joy. Whether you’re selling and promoting a new board game on Kickstarter or Indiegogo, or selling board game products on Amazon or in an online store.We have helped 3000+ companies and individuals to make their board games come to life.If you have any questions please contact us, we 7 * 24 hours for your dedicated service.