A Practical Guide for Display Buyers, Sourcing Teams, and Trade Marketers
By Yan Luo | Samtop Display
Table of Contents
Ordering one display sample before mass production validates materials, finish, structure, and branding. It prevents errors, reduces risk, and ensures the final POP display meets expectations.
POP display prototype used for brand approval
“Can I order one sample before committing to a full production order?” Skipping sampling often leads to: ❌ Color mismatches ❌ Assembly issues ❌ Lighting misalignment ❌ Brand rejection
A single mistake in mass production means lost time, wasted budget, and missed campaign deadlines.
✔️ At Samtop, we offer one-off sample production to validate every detail — from color, structure, and branding accuracy to functionality. This reduces risks and accelerates stakeholder approvals.
🎯 Why Sampling Matters Before Display Production
Ordering a display sample is not just common — it’s best practice for: ✔️ High-end POP displays ✔️ Window props and sculptures ✔️ Countertop glorifiers ✔️ Complex visual merchandising fixtures
Result: You avoid costly mistakes in the production stage.
🧩 What’s Included in a Display Sample?
Sample Type
What You Get
POP Display Unit
Full structure, logo placement, surface finish
Perfume Glorifier
Resin/acrylic components, lighting, logo test
Window Display Prop
Sculpture form, texture, color accuracy
Giant Resin Object
Full-size or scaled model with final finish
✔️ It’s 95% identical to the mass production version.
💸 How Much Does a Display Sample Cost?
Product Type
Estimated Sample Cost
Small countertop glorifier
$150–$350
Medium-sized POP display
$300–$800
Giant resin sculpture
$800–$2000
Fiberglass window prop
$500–$1500
💡 Note: Some or all sample fees are refundable after placing the mass order.
🕒 Sample Lead Time – What to Expect
Sample Type
Lead Time (Working Days)
Simple structure (acrylic/wood)
5–10
Multi-material with print/metal
10–15
With LED, resin, fiberglass
12–20
✔️ Sampling saves time later by preventing full-run errors.
📦 Do You Keep the Sample?
Yes. After final balance is paid, the sample belongs to you.
You can use it for:
✔️ Brand or agency approval meetings
✔️ Showroom or internal VM references
✔️ Future re-orders as a master reference
🏗️ What to Prepare for Your Sample Request
Requirement
Why It’s Needed
Technical Drawing
Ensures accuracy in size and structure
Brand Files
Vector logo, fonts for accurate branding
Finish Reference
Pantone codes, texture photos, renders
Functional Needs
Lighting, movement, modularity
Delivery Info
Shipping address + presentation deadlines
✔️ The better the input, the faster and more accurate the sample.
🚫 When We May Decline a Sample Request
Rare, but possible if:
❌ The design relies on injection molding (too costly for one unit)
❌ MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) restrictions from material suppliers
❌ Special components not available for single-unit production
💡 95% of projects at Samtop support single-sample production.
🧪 Real Client Example – Sampling Saves the Day
Client: U.S. fragrance brand Request: Light-up acrylic glorifier with mirror base Action: Ordered 1 sample to verify LED brightness, color tone, and logo alignment Result:
✅ Approved by the global brand team
✅ Full order of 800 units confirmed without changes
✅ On-time delivery for Q3 campaign
💬 FAQ – Sampling for POP Displays
Q: Can I order one sample before mass production? A: ✅ Yes. Sampling is available for most custom displays.
Q: How much does a sample cost? A: ✅ $150–$2000 based on size, materials, and complexity.
Q: How long does sampling take? A: ✅ 5–20 working days depending on the materials and functions.
Q: What should I provide for a sample? A: ✅ Technical drawings, brand files, Pantone finishes, functional specs, delivery date.
🎯 Conclusion: One Sample = Fewer Surprises, More Confidence
✔️ Ordering one sample is the smartest way to:
✅ Validate design
✅ Gain brand approvals
✅ Reduce production risk
At Samtop, we help buyers, marketers, and sourcing teams move from idea → sample → full production with confidence and clarity.
