Orders & Lead Time FAQ

Standard lead time ranges from 15 to 25 working days from the date of proof approval and order confirmation. The exact timeline depends on several factors, including product type, complexity, quantity, material availability, and whether new tooling (dies or cylinders) is required. Repeat orders using existing tooling are typically faster, often within 10 to 15 working days. For first-time orders with new artwork, please allow additional time for prepress preparation, proofing, and tooling production. Your account manager will provide a detailed production schedule with your order confirmation.

Placing an order with SYSCON is straightforward. Here is the typical process:

1. Inquiry and quotation -- Contact our sales team via the Request a Quote page, email, or phone with your product specifications. We will provide a detailed quotation.
2. Order confirmation -- Once you accept the quotation, confirm your order by issuing a purchase order (PO).
3. Artwork and prepress -- Submit your artwork files. Our prepress team will prepare print-ready files and produce a digital or physical proof for your approval.
4. Proof approval -- Review and approve the proof. Production begins upon your written approval.
5. Production and quality control -- Your order enters production with comprehensive quality checks at every stage.
6. Delivery -- Finished products are packed and shipped according to the agreed delivery terms and schedule.

Your dedicated account manager will guide you through each step and keep you informed of progress throughout.

Yes. We encourage clients to request samples before committing to a production order. We can provide:

• Stock samples -- Examples of our standard label and packaging formats, materials, and finishes to help you evaluate quality and capabilities.
• Custom samples -- Pre-production samples printed with your actual artwork for evaluation before full production. Custom samples may involve a sample fee and typically require 5 to 10 working days to produce.

To request samples, please contact your account manager or reach out through our Contact page.

Our standard minimum order quantities (MOQs) vary by product type. For pressure-sensitive labels, the typical MOQ starts at 5,000 to 10,000 pieces. Shrink and stretch sleeves generally start at 10,000 to 20,000 pieces. Flexible packaging products typically start at 3,000 to 5,000 pieces. These figures are approximate and depend on the specific material, size, print complexity, and finishing requirements. We are flexible and willing to discuss solutions for smaller quantities, particularly for new product launches, trial runs, or limited edition products. Please request a quote for a precise MOQ for your project.

Yes. We understand that urgent requirements arise, and we do our best to accommodate rush orders when production capacity allows. Expedited production may reduce lead time by 30% to 50% compared to standard schedules. Rush orders may be subject to a surcharge depending on the level of acceleration required and current production workload. Please contact your account manager as early as possible to discuss availability, pricing, and feasibility for expedited delivery.

After we prepare your artwork for production, our prepress team will provide a proof for your review and approval. The proofing process typically involves:

• Digital proof (PDF) -- A high-resolution digital file showing the artwork layout, text, colors, and die-line. This is sent via email for your initial review.
• Contract proof / color proof -- A printed color proof on a calibrated proofing system that accurately represents the final print colors. This is recommended for first-time orders or when color accuracy is critical.
• Press proof -- An actual sample printed on the production press using the final materials. Available upon request for orders where absolute accuracy is required.

You can approve the proof via email or through our online approval system. Please review all elements carefully -- including text, colors, barcodes, and layout -- before granting approval, as production will commence based on the approved proof.

Payment terms are agreed upon during the quotation and order confirmation stage. Our standard terms include:

• New clients: 50% deposit upon order confirmation, with the remaining 50% due before shipment or upon delivery, depending on the arrangement.
• Established clients: Net 30 days from the date of invoice, subject to credit approval.
• Export orders: Payment via telegraphic transfer (T/T), letter of credit (L/C), or other agreed international payment methods.

We are open to discussing terms that work for both parties. Tooling costs (for new dies and cylinders) are typically invoiced separately and payable upon order confirmation.

We understand that requirements can change. Whether modifications are possible depends on the stage of production:

• Before prepress/tooling: Changes to artwork, quantities, or specifications can usually be accommodated without additional cost.
• During prepress/tooling: Minor changes may be possible, but could result in revised timelines and costs if new proofs or tooling are required.
• After production has started: Modifications are generally not possible once printing has commenced. However, please contact your account manager immediately and we will assess what options are available.

We strongly recommend reviewing all specifications and proofs thoroughly before approval to avoid the need for mid-production changes.