Custom tokens aren’t complicated — but each step has time and cost variables. Here is the standard six-step process.
Step 1: Requirements (1–2 days)
Confirm quantity, diameter, weight, material, and finish (single color / full color / glow / laser). Quantity drives the price ladder: 2,000 vs 20,000 pcs can differ by 40% per piece.
Step 2: Design & Proof (2–4 days)
Send your AI/EPS vector logo; the supplier returns a flat proof or 3D render. Confirm front/back artwork, text ring, and relief layers. Changes are free now — expensive after the mold is cut.
Step 3: Sampling (5–7 days, $30–80)
When the sample arrives: weigh it, measure diameter and thickness with calipers, and test it in your own coin acceptor. All three pass — then confirm bulk.
Step 4: Bulk Production (10–15 days)
Die-casting → polishing → plating → coloring → QC. You can request in-process production photos.
Step 5: Packaging (2–3 days)
Options: bulk polybags, PVC boxes, OPP bags with card. Sea freight charges by volume — polybags are cheapest; retail-facing tokens deserve individual packaging.
Step 6: Shipping & Customs
Tokens are ordinary goods — customs is simple. Small lots (<100kg) via express courier (DHL/FedEx, 5–7 days); bulk via sea FCL/LCL (25–40 days depending on destination port).
Total Timeline
Order to door: ~25–35 days by express, ~45–60 days by sea. When planning a venue opening, put token customization in the first wave of procurement.