Guide · Badges
Custom Pin Badges UK: How to Order From a Factory Directly
Ordering custom pin badges from a Shenzhen factory as a UK buyer: what to send, lead times, 4% duty plus 20% VAT, DDP delivery and pre-payment checks.
Written in British English for UK and Irish buyers.
Ordering custom pin badges directly from our factory takes five steps: send artwork and quantity, approve a digital proof, pay, wait 30 to 60 days for production, receive delivery. From 100 pcs per design. Unit price drops significantly at 500 pcs and again at 1,000+ pcs. UK import duty on metal badges is 4% plus 20% VAT as of September 2026, and we can quote DDP so both are settled before dispatch.
Step 1: What to send
- Artwork, ideally vector (AI, EPS, PDF, SVG). A clean PNG works.
- Quantity. From 100 pcs per design.
- Badge type: soft enamel, hard enamel, printed, or plain plated.
- Plating colour: gold, silver, nickel, black nickel, gunmetal, rose gold, antique gold, antique silver, antique copper, copper or two-tone.
- Backing: rubber clutch, butterfly clutch, safety pin, locking, magnetic (adult use only) or screw back.
- Packaging: poly bag, backing card, blister card, presentation box or custom retail packaging.
- Delivery address and the date you need them in hand.
We reply within 12 hours once the details above are clear.
Step 2: The proof
You get a digital proof within 2 working days. It shows the badge at scale, the Pantone colours, the plating and the back. Check it carefully. Nothing is cut until you approve it in writing. If you need us to draw the artwork from a sketch, add 7 working days.
A physical sample is optional and takes 10 to 14 working days. We recommend it for colour-critical work or fine detail.
Step 3: Payment
T/T bank transfer, PayPal or credit card. First orders are normally 100% in advance. Larger orders can be discussed. Production starts when the proof is approved and payment is received. That is when the lead-time clock starts.
Step 4: Production
30 to 60 days depending on quantity. Badges are die-cast in zinc alloy, polished, plated, filled with enamel by hand or by machine, fitted with backs and packed. The custom pin badges page covers each option.
Step 5: Delivery, duty and VAT
Metal badges enter the UK under HS 7117.19 at 4% duty. VAT at 20% is charged on the goods value plus freight plus duty. As of September 2026, subject to change.
Two ways to handle it:
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). We quote one price that includes freight, duty and VAT. The badges arrive at your door with nothing to pay. Simplest for a first order.
- FOB or CIF. You or your forwarder handle import. You pay duty and VAT to HMRC on arrival. Cheaper on paper, more admin.
If you are VAT-registered, ask us how the import VAT is documented so you can reclaim it. Charities and schools should check their own VAT position.
Choosing your route
| Your priority | What we'd suggest | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing to pay on arrival | DDP quote | Higher headline price; less control of the carrier |
| Lowest landed cost, you have a forwarder | FOB Shenzhen | You handle customs and VAT |
| Fastest delivery | Air freight, DDP | Costs more than sea |
| Large order, not urgent | Sea freight, DDP or FOB | Longer transit |
| Small quantities | 100 pcs per design | Higher unit price than 500+ |
What to check before you pay
- The proof is approved in writing, with Pantone numbers listed.
- The quote states the Incoterm (DDP, FOB, CIF) and the delivery address.
- The quote states the lead time and what starts the clock.
- The mould charge is listed separately, once.
- Packaging and backing are listed as line items.
Compliance for UK sale
Badges sold or given away in the UK fall under nickel release limits (UK REACH, mirroring EU REACH Annex XVII entry 27: nickel release no more than 0.5 µg/cm²/week under EN 1811) and lead limits. If your buyer or retailer needs test reports (for example EN 1811 nickel release), tell us with your brief and we will arrange testing for your order.
Order Facts
- From 100 pcs per design · better price at 500+, best at 1,000+
- Free artwork proof within 2 working days
- Sample 10–14 working days · bulk 30–60 days · rush from 10–15 days
- DDP door-to-door available: duties and taxes included in the quote
- Bella replies within 12 hours
Related
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a UK company to order?
No. We ship to individuals, clubs, charities and businesses. DDP delivery works for all of them.
Can you deliver to Ireland?
Yes. Ireland is EU: 4% duty plus Irish VAT. We quote DDP for Ireland as well.
What if the badges arrive damaged?
Photograph the carton and the badges before unpacking further and email us within a few days of delivery. We replace confirmed factory defects.