Plan backwards from the cold season

Winter is a fixed deadline. If your stock has to be on shelves by October, you are working backwards from a landing date, not forwards from an order date. Build in time for sampling, production, inspection and sea freight, then add a buffer for weather-driven demand spikes.

Typical MOQ

For most winter slipper styles, MOQ starts around 600 pairs per colour, and drops for established moulds and repeat styles. Custom printing, special linings or bespoke packaging usually raise the minimum because of setup time. Confirm the MOQ per colour per size, not just per style, before you commit.

Sampling lead time

A wearable sample usually takes 7–10 days once the brief and materials are confirmed. Complex constructions, new lasts or licensed artwork take longer. Sample fees are common and are normally credited against bulk orders, which keeps the risk low if the style proceeds.

Bulk production

Bulk runs of winter slippers typically take 30–45 days after deposit, depending on order size and material availability. Peak autumn is the busiest window, so factories plan capacity in waves and hold room for reorders. Book your slot early if your market relies on a late cold snap.

Inspection and shipping

Build a third-party inspection into the schedule before shipment. Shipping from Ningbo or Shanghai gives good sailing frequency to Europe and North America; factor in transit time and the possibility of port congestion during the run-up to winter.