Buyers often start a custom project by asking for a new mould because a reference product looks different. In many cases, only the colour, logo, packaging or a non-structural cosmetic part changes. In other cases, a small-looking geometry change affects the hinge, snap-fit or load path and does require tooling work. The review should separate those cases before sampling.
The four-part decision
| Area | Existing-mould candidate | New or modified tooling signal |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry | Outline, wall thickness, ribs and fixing points stay within the approved model | Holes, bosses, clearances or undercuts change the moulded part |
| Mechanism | Hinge, fold angle and moving clearances remain unchanged | The part must carry a new load or move through a new angle |
| Appearance | Colour, texture and logo fit an approved process | The required surface cannot be reproduced on the current tool |
| Commercial pack | Product and packaging can be controlled as a repeatable specification | The packaging changes the physical protection or product fit |
An existing mould is a manufacturing asset, not a promise that every new design can be squeezed into it. The factory should state which existing model is closest and exactly what still differs.
What can usually change without a new mould
- Product colour, subject to material and process capability.
- Logo position and marking method, after the surface and wear requirement are checked.
- Printed insert, label, manual and retail box graphics.
- A non-structural decorative part when its mounting and clearance are already supported.
Even these items need approval samples. A logo that looks correct in a digital proof can fail on a textured or curved surface; a packaging change can alter drop protection or how the accessory sits in the box.
What usually forces a part change
- A different phone-support width or folding angle that changes the mechanism.
- A new magnet layout or housing depth that changes the internal stack.
- A panel with large openings or thin webs that must carry load.
- A mounting method that adds screw bosses, clips or a new adhesive area.
- A surface geometry the current mould cannot release without a side action.
The cost of a new tool is only one part of the decision. The larger question is whether the design can be validated and repeated. A rushed modification that fits the first sample but creates flash, warpage or inconsistent assembly is not a cheaper route.
Information to send before asking for a mould decision
- A dimensioned drawing or a physical reference with key measurements.
- The phone or case range and the required load or viewing angles.
- Which parts may change and which must remain identical.
- Target quantity and launch timing.
- Colour standard, logo artwork and surface finish.
- Packaging format and market-specific document or testing requirements.
For projects that may reuse a model, ask the factory to identify the closest existing item and list the remaining deviations. For projects that need tooling, ask for a DFM review before a mould is cut, because a trial sample cannot correct an unresolved undercut or load-path problem.
A sensible approval sequence
Review the design, freeze the drawing, approve the first sample, then lock the colour, finish, packaging and inspection criteria. Changes after sample approval should be treated as a new revision, even when the change looks small.
Our factory has 100+ product types and 21 models already on tooling. Standard terms are MOQ 50 pcs per model, samples in 7-10 working days, mass production in 7-12 days, packing and final inspection in 3-5 days, FOB Shenzhen. We hold 8 granted patents: 3 utility models and 5 design patents, registered trademark no. 80143576 in Class 9 and one copyright registration. We do not hold CE, RoHS, REACH or SGS certificates; required third-party testing should be scoped before sampling.
FAQ
Does a custom logo require a new mould? Usually no, but the marking process and surface must be checked. Laser, printing and other methods have different appearance and wear limits.
Can you confirm reuse from a photo? No. A photo can identify the visual direction. Dimensions, fixing points and mechanism clearances are needed for a decision.
How many existing models do you have? 21 models are already on tooling within a range of 100+ product types.
Do you publish prices or tooling costs? No. The project route and commercial terms are reviewed after the drawing, quantity and change scope are clear.
Send the drawing and the list of fixed versus flexible requirements to WhatsApp +86 198 2632 0305 or the website form.
Need a price for your own model?
Send us your drawing or a reference photo. You will get unit price, sampling time and shipping cost within one working day.
Models mentioned in this guide