Sourcing glossary
Pre-production sample
Also known as: PP sample, PPS, 产前样, 생산 전 샘플, 양산 전 샘플
A sample made with the actual materials, processes and packaging intended for mass production, which the buyer approves before the factory starts the bulk run.
Early prototypes and showroom samples are often hand-made or use better materials than bulk. The pre-production sample should come from the production line, with final materials, colours, logo printing and packaging, so you approve what will actually be made. Once approved and sealed, it typically becomes the golden sample.
Do not let the factory start mass production "while you review" the sample. Approve it in writing and state in the PO that bulk must match it. See product samples from China.
Related terms
Guides that use this term
Private label
How to Negotiate MOQ with Chinese Suppliers
Why Chinese factories set minimum order quantities and practical ways to lower them: stock colours, shared materials, trial orders, mixed SKUs and how to ask.
Updated 2026-09-18 · 5 min read
Private label
Product Samples from China: Types, Costs and How to Evaluate Them
Stock, custom, pre-production and golden samples explained: what they cost, who pays, sample fee refunds, express shipping and how to judge a sample properly.
Updated 2026-09-11 · 5 min read
Yiwu
How to Buy from the Yiwu Market Without Visiting
How overseas buyers source from Yiwu remotely: agents, video-call booth tours, the Chinagoods platform, consolidation warehouses, payment, QC and the main risks.
Updated 2026-09-10 · 6 min read
Private label
OEM vs ODM: Which Manufacturing Model Fits Your Product?
OEM, ODM, private label and white label compared: who owns the design, tooling costs, MOQs, lead times and how to protect your IP when manufacturing in China.
Updated 2026-09-04 · 6 min read
Platforms
How to Buy from 1688.com Outside China: A Step-by-Step Guide
How overseas buyers buy on 1688.com: account and payment options, Chinese and image search, shipping to a China forwarder, agents, and supplier checks.
Updated 2026-09-01 · 6 min read
Part of OEM & Private Label.