The OEM Process: Step by Step
Bringing your own fishing reel to market requires understanding the manufacturing process. Here's how it works with a professional OEM factory in Cixi, China's fishing tackle hub.
1. Design & Engineering (2-4 weeks)
- Submit your design brief or reference sample
- Our engineers create 3D CAD models
- Material selection: aluminum body vs graphite, bearing count, gear ratio
- Finish options: anodized colors, laser engraving, screen printing
2. Tooling & Mold Making (3-5 weeks)
| Component | Mold Type | Cost Range | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body frame (aluminum) | Die casting mold | $3,000-8,000 | 4-5 weeks |
| Body frame (graphite) | Injection mold | $2,000-5,000 | 3-4 weeks |
| Spool (aluminum) | CNC + die cast | $1,500-4,000 | 3-4 weeks |
| Handle knob | Injection mold | $800-2,000 | 2-3 weeks |
| Custom packaging | Die cutting | $500-1,500 | 2 weeks |
3. Sample Production (2-3 weeks)
Pre-production samples for approval. We manufacture 5-10 sample reels for your testing and feedback. Includes full spec sheet verification.
4. Mass Production (4-6 weeks)
Once samples are approved, we proceed to mass production with inline QC at every stage: die casting → CNC machining → surface treatment → assembly → final testing → packaging.
OEM Pricing Tiers
| Order Qty | Price vs Standard | Mold Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 2,000-5,000 pcs | Base OEM price | Full mold fee |
| 5,000-10,000 pcs | -8% to -12% | 50% mold fee rebate |
| 10,000+ pcs | -15% to -20% | Free mold |
FAQ
Can I use my own logo and packaging?
Yes. We support full customization: laser-engraved logos, custom anodized colors, branded packaging, UPC barcodes, and retailer-ready packaging.