Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our process, products, or how to get started? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered all the most common questions our partners ask and answered them here.
We believe in being transparent and helpful. If you don’t find your answer here, please don’t hesitate to contact our expert team directly.
1. What is the main difference between Hoplok and other leather goods manufacturers?
That’s a great question, and it’s what we’re most proud of! While many factories just do one thing, we are a complete, one-stop solution. Our main differences are:
- Our 5-Factory Matrix: We aren’t just one factory. We own and operate 5 specialized factories across China and Cambodia, with over 4,500 artisans. This gives us huge capacity and flexibility.
- Vertical Integration: This is our biggest advantage. We own ProPelli, our LWG Gold-Certified leather finishing facility. We control quality, cost, and customization right from the source.
- US Design Team: We have a design team in New York and California to provide you with the latest market trends, helping you design best-sellers.
- Proven Trust: We are the trusted, audited manufacturer for the world’s top brands, like Calvin Klein, Macy’s, and J.Crew.
- In-House Testing Lab: We don’t just “check” quality; we prove it with science in our own testing lab.
2. You have factories in both China and Cambodia. What's the benefit for me?
This “Dual-Country” strategy is a key advantage for your brand. It gives you flexibility and supply chain security. Here’s how:
- Risk Diversification: Your production is not dependent on just one country’s economic or shipping situation.
- Speed & Innovation: Our China factories (HongDing & LeZhao) are our innovation hubs, perfect for complex products and rapid prototyping.
- Scale & Value: Our Cambodia factories (Hoplok, HongCen & ProPelli) are powerhouses for large-scale production, offering incredible efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Tariff Advantages: Depending on your target market (especially the US), our Cambodia location can offer significant advantages for customs and duties.
We can build the perfect, most cost-effective production plan for your specific project.
3. Do you only work with large brands like Calvin Klein, or do you support startups?
We are proud to support brands at every stage of their journey!
For Startups & Emerging Brands: We love helping new ideas grow. We offer low MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities), often around 100-200 pieces, to help you get started without huge risk. Our US design team can even help you turn a great idea into a professional, production-ready design.
For Established Brands & Retailers: We have the power to support you as you scale. Our 4,500+ workers, massive monthly capacity, and top-tier social and quality certifications (like BSCI, SMETA, and LWG) mean we can handle your most complex, high-volume orders with reliability.
4. What types of custom leather products do you offer?
We are a true one-stop shop! Our 5 specialized factories allow us to be experts in four main areas. We can make:
- Custom Leather Bags (totes, backpacks, crossbody bags, etc.)
- Custom Leather Belts (for men, women, and children)
- Custom Leather Wallets (bifolds, card holders, RFID wallets, etc.)
- Custom Leather Accessories (keychains, pet collars, desk mats, and much more)
5. What is Private Label, OEM, and ODM? What services do you provide?
That’s a great question! These terms define our partnership. We specialize in OEM and ODM, which offer you the most creative control.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): You provide your complete, unique design (like a tech pack). We act as your expert factory to build it exactly for you.
- ODM (Original Design Manufacturer): You like one of our original designs, but want to modify it (like changing the color, logo, or material) to sell under your brand.
- Private Label: This often means choosing from a factory’s existing, non-exclusive products and just putting your logo on them. Our OEM/ODM services go much deeper to create products that are truly unique to your brand.
6. I only have a basic idea. Can you help me with the design?
Yes, absolutely! This is one of our biggest advantages. You do not need a perfect technical drawing. We have a professional design team based in New York and California. Their job is to know the latest trends. You can come to us with just an idea, a sketch, or even a photo. Our team will work with you to turn that idea into a professional design and a finished product.
7. What if I don't have a logo or design at all?
No problem at all. We love working with new brands from scratch. Our US-based design team can help you with everything. We can discuss your target customer and brand idea. From there, they can help you develop a professional logo, create a design concept, and choose the right materials. We are a full-service partner, here to help you build from zero.
8. What types of leather fabrics (materials) do you offer?
We can source almost any material you need. Our main materials include:
- High-Quality Leathers: Such as Full-Grain, Top-Grain, Suede, Nubuck, and Vegetable-Tanned.
- Sustainable Options: We are GRS-Certified to use recycled leathers and fabrics. We also source from LWG-certified tanneries.
- Vegan & Faux Leathers: A wide range of durable, high-quality PU and other non-leather materials.
You can learn more at our Materials & Tannery page.
9. Can I customize the texture and finish of the leather fabric?
Yes! This is our specialty. Because we own the ProPelli finishing facility, we are not limited to just buying what’s on the market. We are experts at creating custom textures and finishes. We can make:
- Embossed patterns (like Saffiano or Crocodile)
- Unique finishes (like Crazy Horse, pull-up, or oil-waxed)
- Special effects (like vintage washed or crackled leather)
You can work with our team to create a truly one-of-a-kind material for your brand.
10. Can you manufacture RFID-blocking wallets?
Yes, we are experts at this. We can integrate a special, thin layer of RFID-blocking material inside the lining of any wallet, card holder, or passport case. This is a very popular feature that protects your customers’ credit card information from digital theft. Just let us know you want this feature, and we will add it to your design.
11. Can my design be made in a specific color?
Yes. We offer a free Pantone Color Matching service. If you have a specific Pantone (PMS) code for your brand, just give it to us. Our color experts will create a “lab dip” (a small color sample) on your chosen material to get the color exactly right. We will then send you this sample for approval before we start production.
12. Can you help with custom packaging design?
Yes, we can! Packaging is a key part of your brand. We can help you produce a full range of custom packaging for your products, including:
- Branded dust bags
- Custom-printed gift boxes or sleeves
- Branded tissue paper
- Custom hang tags
This ensures your customer has a great “unboxing” experience from start to finish.
13. How long does it take to get a sample?
We are incredibly fast. Our dedicated sample room can create your first physical prototype (sample) in just 2 to 7 business days. This clock starts after we have confirmed all your design details and materials. This speed helps you review your product and make decisions much faster than with other manufacturers.
14. How are samples charged? Is the fee refunded on a bulk order?
Yes, we do charge a fee for new samples. This fee covers the cost of our expert pattern makers’ time and the specific materials needed to create your unique product. It shows a shared commitment to the project.
The good news is that for most production orders, we fully refund this sample fee (or credit it towards your order). It’s our way of investing in a long-term partnership with you.
15. What is a "tech pack," and why is it so important?
A tech pack is the master blueprint for your product. Think of it as a detailed instruction manual for our factory. It includes all the critical information needed to make your product perfectly. A good tech pack usually includes:
- Detailed drawings or computer-aided designs (CAD) of all angles.
- Exact measurements and dimensions (length, width, height, strap length, etc.).
- Specific materials for the outside (e.g., “Full-Grain Cowhide”), inside (e.g., “Nylon Lining”), and any hardware (e.g., “Antique Brass YKK Zipper”).
- Details on logo type and placement.
- Stitching and edge finishing details.
Having a clear tech pack is the best way to ensure your sample is made exactly as you imagined, right on the first try.
16. What do I need to provide to start the sample process?
A detailed tech pack (see the question above) is the fastest and best way to start. But don’t worry if you don’t have one! You can also start with:
- Clear sketches, drawings, or photos of your design (from multiple angles).
- A link to a similar product you admire.
- A physical sample of a product you want us to reference or modify.
Just send us what you have. Our US-based design team and development experts can work with you to fill in the gaps and create a professional tech pack to get your project started.
17. Can I provide my own tech packs, patterns, or existing samples?
Yes, absolutely! We love it when clients have a clear vision. If you already have your own professional tech packs, digital patterns, or a physical “master sample” for us to follow, that’s fantastic. This helps our team understand your expectations perfectly and can make the sampling process even faster.
18. Can I customize my logo and hardware on the sample?
Yes. The whole point of the sample is to be as close to your final product as possible. We will include your custom logo (like an emboss, metal plate, etc.) and your specific hardware choices.
Please note: If your design requires a brand new, custom-molded piece of hardware (like a unique buckle), there may be a separate mold fee and a slightly longer lead time for that specific part. We will discuss all of this with you transparently upfront.
19. Do you offer samples of just the custom leather fabrics?
Yes, we do. If you first want to check a specific material’s color or feel, we can help. For custom colors, we create a “lab dip” (a small dyed swatch). For custom textures (like a unique embossing) from our ProPelli tannery, we can create a material swatch. This is a great, fast way to approve materials before we make the full product sample.
20. What are your shipping options for samples?
We want you to get your samples as quickly as possible. We ship all our prototypes using fast, reliable international express carriers, such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS. This typically ensures you receive your sample just a few days after we ship it, no matter where you are in the world.
21. How do I place an order with Hoplok Leather?
It’s easy! The best way to start is to use the “Get a Quote” button on our site or email our team. Here’s the simple process:
- You send us your design (a tech pack, sketch, or photo).
- Our experts will reply quickly to discuss your project and give you a quote.
- We create a sample for your approval.
- Once you approve the sample, you place your bulk order, and we begin production!
22. How does the entire manufacturing process work from start to finish?
We have a clear 6-Step Full-Service Process to make everything simple for you. Here is the basic flow:
- Step 1: Design & Consultation: We review your idea and give expert feedback.
- Step 2: Material Sourcing: We find the perfect leather and hardware.
- Step 3: Prototyping: We create a physical sample for you to approve.
- Step 4: High-Volume Production: Our factories begin making your full order.
- Step 5: Quality Control: We inspect every item to ensure perfection.
- Step 6: Packaging & Delivery: We pack your products and ship them to your door.
You can read more about this on our Full-Service Manufacturing page.
23. What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?
We are very flexible because we want to support both new and established brands. Our typical MOQ is around 100 to 200 pieces per style and color. This can sometimes change if the design is very complex or uses rare materials, but we will always work with you to find a solution.
24. Can I order a mix of different products (e.g., bags and wallets)?
Yes, absolutely! This is one of the biggest benefits of working with us. As a one-stop manufacturer with 5 factories, you can easily combine your order. For example, you can order 500 bags, 500 wallets, and 1,000 belts all at once. This saves you time, simplifies shipping, and ensures your brand’s quality is consistent across all products.
25. Can I make changes to my order after it has been placed?
This depends on what stage the order is at.
- Before Production Starts: If we have not yet ordered your custom materials or started cutting, we can usually make changes (like adjusting quantities or colors).
- After Production Starts: Once the leather is cut and sewing has begun, it is very difficult or impossible to make changes without causing major delays and extra costs.
The most important rule is to contact your dedicated project manager immediately. We will always do our best to find a solution for you.
26. What are your payment terms?
We keep our terms simple and standard for the industry. For a new production order, we typically require a 30% deposit. This confirms your order and allows us to purchase all the raw materials. The final 70% balance is then due after production is finished and you have approved our final quality inspection, right before we ship the goods to you.
27. What payment methods do you accept?
Our standard and most secure payment method for international B2B transactions is a bank-to-bank wire transfer (T/T). All the necessary details will be on the official Proforma Invoice (PI) we send you when you are ready to place your order.
28. What is your quality control process?
Our quality process is extremely strict because we know your brand’s reputation is on the line. We don’t just check at the end; we check at multiple stages:
- 1. Raw Material Check (IQC): We inspect all leather, hardware, and zippers for flaws before production begins.
- 2. In-Process Check (IPQC): Our full-time quality inspectors are on the factory floor, monitoring the cutting, stitching, and assembly as it happens.
- 3. Final Check (FQC): Every single finished item is inspected one last time for cosmetic flaws, construction strength, and function.
- 4. Lab Testing: We also use our in-house lab to scientifically test our products for durability, strength, and chemical safety.
You can learn more on our Quality & Compliance page.
29. What is the benefit of your ProPelli LWG Gold-Certified factory?
ProPelli is our self-owned leather finishing facility. It has an LWG Gold Certification, which is the highest possible rating for environmental excellence (water, energy, and chemical management).
For you, this means:
- Better Cost & Supply: We cut out the middlemen, giving you better pricing and a more stable supply chain.
- Exclusive Customization: We can create unique finishes (like vintage washes or Crazy Horse) just for your brand.
- Guaranteed Responsibility: You have proof that your products are made using leather from a top-rated, sustainable source.
30. Are your factories socially compliant (e.g., BSCI, SMETA)?
Yes, absolutely. We are deeply committed to ethical manufacturing and protecting our workers. Our factories are regularly and successfully audited by the world’s leading social compliance organizations. We are proud to be certified and audited by:
- BSCI
- SMETA
- Sedex
- BetterWork Cambodia
This ensures you are partnering with a responsible and ethical manufacturer.
31. Are you familiar with chemical safety standards (like REACH & CPSIA)?
Yes, we are experts in this. We export products all over the world and are very familiar with global chemical safety standards. Our in-house testing lab helps us verify that our materials are compliant with:
- REACH (for products sold in the European Union)
- CPSIA (for products, especially children’s items, sold in the USA)
- Prop 65 (for products sold in California)
We ensure your products are safe for your customers and meet all legal import requirements.
32. Can I visit your factory to inspect the production process?
Yes, we would love to have you! We are very proud of our modern, clean, and organized factories in both China and Cambodia. We believe in 100% transparency with our partners. Please contact our team to schedule a visit. We look forward to showing you our process in person.
33. What countries do you ship to? What are your Incoterms?
We ship our products all over the world. Our main markets include the USA, Canada, Europe, and Australia, but we can arrange delivery to almost any country. We are very flexible with shipping terms (Incoterms) and will work with your logistics team to find the best option. The most common terms we use are FOB (Free On Board), but we can also handle EXW (Ex Works) or DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) depending on your needs.
34. What shipping methods do you offer for bulk orders?
We offer all standard international shipping methods for bulk orders. The best choice depends on your budget and timeline:
- Ocean Freight (Sea Shipping): This is the most cost-effective option for large orders. It takes longer (usually 30-40 days) but has the lowest cost per item.
- Air Freight: This is a much faster option (usually 5-10 days). It’s perfect if you have a tight deadline or need to launch a new product quickly.
We can provide you with quotes for both so you can make the best decision for your business.
35. How long does it take to ship an order once it's finished?
The shipping transit time begins after our 15-20 day production is complete. The time it takes for the goods to reach you depends on the method you choose:
- By Sea (Ocean Freight): This typically takes 30 to 45 days to reach most ports in North America or Europe.
- By Air (Air Freight): This is much faster, usually taking 5 to 10 days to arrive at your nearest major airport.
36. Can I track my shipment?
Yes, absolutely. Once your order is on its way, our logistics team will provide you with all the necessary tracking information. For air freight, this will be an air waybill (AWB) number. For ocean freight, we will provide you with the Bill of Lading (B/L) number and vessel details so you can monitor the ship’s progress.
37. What about shipping costs and customs duties?
This is a great question and it depends on the shipping term (Incoterm) we agree on for your order. Here are the two most common options:
- FOB (Free On Board): This is the most common term. Our price includes the cost of the goods plus getting them to the port in China or Cambodia. You (the buyer) are responsible for paying the main shipping (sea or air) cost, as well as any customs duties and taxes in your country.
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): If you prefer a simpler, all-in-one price, we can quote you DDP. This price will include the product, the shipping, and all the customs duties and taxes. The goods will arrive at your door with nothing extra to pay.
We are happy to provide quotes for both methods to help you choose.
Partner with a Manufacturer You Can Trust
You’ve seen our LWG Gold-Certified facility, our in-house testing lab, and our full list of global certifications. Now, let’s put that responsible power to work for your brand.
Contact us today to discuss your specific sustainability requirements or to request our full compliance report. Let’s build a better, more responsible brand together.