Explanation of the essential terminology for ordering and importing American products | Useful knowledge for OEM and purchasing
Share
Useful to know! Glossary of American manufacturing terms
In the American manufacturing industry, there is a lot of industry-specific terminology that is not often used in Japan. In this article, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the keywords that often appear on quotations and during manufacturing.
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) = Minimum order quantity . This is the minimum lot size, meaning "We cannot produce below this quantity!" A common question is "Can I order less than this amount?", but... you can't! (sigh)
Before contacting us, please double check the meaning of MOQ.
Before contacting us, please double check the meaning of MOQ.
Set-up Charge = Initial cost (plate fee, etc.)
These are the initial costs, such as plate creation costs and machine adjustment costs. They are sometimes translated as "setup costs," but are closer to the idea of what is called "plate fees" in Japan.
These are the initial costs, such as plate creation costs and machine adjustment costs. They are sometimes translated as "setup costs," but are closer to the idea of what is called "plate fees" in Japan.
Ink Change Charge = Ink replacement cost <br>For example, when you order black and white prints of the same product, this is the cost to switch inks. This cost is added because of the labor involved in cleaning, etc.
Copy Change Charge = Plate change cost <br>When printing different designs (e.g. pattern A and pattern B) within one order, the plate must be changed. The cost of this work is the "copy change charge."
Virtual Proof = Virtual Proofing <br>An image of the finished product created on a computer. Instead of creating a physical sample, we use this image to check the proofreading.
In the past, samples were necessary, but now in the digital age, printing precision has improved, and virtual proofs that can be exchanged via email are faster and cheaper.
However, in Japan there are still strong voices saying, "I really want to see the real thing!" so perhaps there are cultural differences.
In the past, samples were necessary, but now in the digital age, printing precision has improved, and virtual proofs that can be exchanged via email are faster and cheaper.
However, in Japan there are still strong voices saying, "I really want to see the real thing!" so perhaps there are cultural differences.
summary
- MOQ = Minimum Order Quantity
- Setup charge = Initial cost (plate fee, etc.)
- Ink change charge = Ink replacement fee
- Copy change charge = plate replacement charge
- Virtual Proof = Virtual proofing on a computer
These terms are essential knowledge for anyone involved in overseas OEM or purchasing. Many of them are only understood in the United States or Europe, but it is important to remember them in order to ensure smooth communication.
OEM consultation/inquiry here