When ordering zippers, there are two main ways to place an order: factory order and processing order.
We are often asked about the difference between the two, so here’s a brief explanation of how YKK zipper orders are typically handled.
Factory Order
When placing a zipper order, you specify the zipper type, element color, tape color, size, slider, and length. However, the number of possible combinations is vast, making it impossible to keep all variations in stock.
As a result, most zippers are made to order.
The advantage of a factory order is that, since it’s produced specifically for your request, you can get exactly the zipper you want—at the standard list price.
Processing Order
Processing orders involve modifying existing zippers—for example, shortening a longer zipper to your desired length, or cutting a chain zipper to create one of a specific length.
This is commonly referred to as zipper processing or zipper trimming.
One question we sometimes get is whether a short zipper can be made longer—but unfortunately, zippers cannot be extended beyond their original length.
The biggest advantage of a processing order is the quick turnaround. Since the zipper is shortened from stock held by distributors, delivery can be fast. Depending on the quantity and workload, samples can often be shipped as soon as the next day.
However, please note that the cost will be higher, as it includes both the price of the longer zipper and the additional processing fee.
How should you choose between a factory order and a processing order?
Processing Order is recommended for samples.
For urgent, small-quantity sample orders, processing orders allow quicker delivery using available inventory.
Factory Order is better for bulk production.
For large production runs with cost efficiency in mind, factory orders offer better pricing and full customization.
When you’re in a rush—even for production
Even for mass production, some clients choose processing orders when speed is critical. Common colors like black or white are usually readily available.
When the length is not decided
Since zippers take time to procure, it’s best to arrange the order as early as possible, but sometimes the length hasn’t been decided yet.
In such cases, you can place an order for, say, a 20 cm zipper. If you end up needing 20 cm, you can use it as is. If the length is finalized at 17 cm, you can have it shortened, although this will incur additional costs.
However, if you ordered a 20 cm zipper through factory production, you cannot simply change the length to 17 cm through factory production. In that case, you would need to cancel the 20 cm order (within the cancellation period) and place a new order for the 17 cm zipper.
For those looking for zippers,
ApparelX is a BtoB ecommerce platform for brands, tailors and the like to order from small MOQs from a variety of manufacturers in one order. And we ship worldwide!
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If you are looking to bulk order, custom order, or have any other questions, contact us through our contact form and a member on the Global Strategy Team will get back to you within the next business day. (Please understand that we are based in Japan and our office hours are 9am-6pm so we are only able to answer during that time).