Choosing a factory is the first decision. The second is knowing what happens after you say yes: which steps the order goes through, how long each takes, and where you should check the goods before they leave. This guide lays out the timeline of a first OEM LED lighting order, from sample approval to container loading, based on how Yndlux Lighting Co., Ltd (YNDLUX), a China-based manufacturer of track, downlight and linear lighting, runs its orders. If you are still choosing a supplier, start with our guide to choosing an OEM/ODM factory in China.
The Timeline at a Glance
| Stage | Typical duration | Your checkpoint |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Enquiry and specification | A few days | Specification sheet confirmed in writing |
| 2. Samples | 7–14 days for custom samples | Approve a golden sample |
| 3. Order confirmation | A few days | Final specification, artwork and quantities |
| 4. Production | 25–30 days | Progress updates and first-article check |
| 5. Final inspection | Before loading | Inspection results and photos |
| 6. Loading and documents | At shipment | Packing list and certificates |
Stage 1: Turn Your Requirement Into a Written Specification
Every later problem traces back to an unclear specification. Before samples, agree in writing on: model, wattage, lumen output, CCT and colour tolerance (SDCM), CRI and R9, beam angle, driver and dimming type, housing colour, logo and packaging, warranty term, and quantity per model. The MOQ at YNDLUX is 50 units per model.
Stage 2: Samples and the Golden Sample
Custom samples typically take 7–14 days. Test them in conditions close to your real application: light them on a wall, compare colour with any existing fixtures, check dimming with your control system, and inspect the finish and packaging. The sample you approve becomes the golden sample — the reference that production and inspection are measured against. Keep one, and ask the factory to keep one.
Stage 3: Confirm the Order
Confirm the final specification sheet, artwork files for logo and packaging, quantities per model, and the warranty term. YNDLUX offers 2, 3, 5 or 7-year warranty options. Any change after this point should be confirmed in writing, because it can affect materials and timing.
Stage 4: Production (25–30 Days)
Production at YNDLUX takes 25–30 days. During this stage the factory:
- Checks incoming materials such as LED chips, drivers, lenses and housings
- Assembles and runs aging tests on the luminaires
- Verifies light output and colour (CCT within ±100K of nominal, SDCM ≤3, CRI per batch)
- Produces your branded packaging and documentation
For a first order, ask for a first-article check: photos and test results of the first finished units from the production line, compared with the golden sample, before the full run continues.
Stage 5: Final Inspection Before Loading
Before goods leave the factory, the finished batch is inspected for appearance, function, light output and packaging. Tell the factory in advance what you want to see in the inspection report — photos, test values, carton markings — so the results arrive in a form you can file. Compare the results with your golden sample and specification sheet.
Stage 6: Loading and Shipping Documents
At loading, make sure you receive the documents your customs broker and customers will need: packing list, commercial invoice, and copies of the relevant certificates. YNDLUX products are certified to CE, TÜV, CB and RoHS, with ENEC, GS and SAA available on relevant lines. Ask for the IES and LDT photometric files of every model at the same time, so your sales team has them ready.
After Delivery: Reorders
The first order sets the standard. For every reorder, quote the same specification sheet and golden sample, so each new batch matches the last. With a 25–30 day production time, you can plan reorders about a month ahead of the date you need goods ready to ship. For multi-store buyers, see our guide to writing a chain lighting specification.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a first OEM LED lighting order take?
Allow 7–14 days for custom samples and 25–30 days for production, plus time for specification, confirmation and shipping.
What is a golden sample?
The approved sample that production and inspection are measured against. Both buyer and factory should keep one.
What is the MOQ for an OEM order at YNDLUX?
The MOQ is 50 units per model.
Which documents should I receive at shipment?
The packing list, commercial invoice and copies of the relevant certificates, plus the IES and LDT photometric files for each model.
Plan Your First Order
Send us your specification or the products you are considering, and we will map out the timeline for your order.
- Email: info@yndled.com
- Contact: www.yndled.com/contact
