What does it cost us to switch from a stock colour to a custom Pantone shell?

Main answer · Wecent Editorial Team

Short answer: Expect several cost items rather than one surcharge: colour matching and colour samples, a custom masterbatch or spray paint, possibly a higher minimum quantity per colour, extra sample approval time, and a check that the coloured material is still covered by the safety report and RoHS/REACH evidence. Wecent’s product pages list an MOQ of 200 pieces; the MOQ for a custom colour may differ, so confirm with Wecent before budgeting.

Where the cost comes from

• Colour matching: the material supplier or factory mixes a masterbatch to your Pantone reference and produces colour plaques for approval.
• Material: a custom masterbatch is made in batches; the minimum batch may be more than one order needs, and the leftover is often charged.
• Painting instead of moulded colour: some finishes are sprayed. Painting adds a process step, cost and a wear surface to check.
• Machine changeover: moulding a special colour means purging and changing over, which costs time and scrap.
• Compliance: the coloured material may need assessment against the safety report’s material listing and fresh RoHS/REACH evidence.
• Packaging: product photos, box artwork and colour names change.

MOQ effects

Stock colours share material with other orders. A custom colour doesn’t, so suppliers often set a higher minimum per colour. Ask for the colour MOQ separately from the product MOQ.

Timing

1. Colour plaques for approval.
2. Possible second round if the match is off.
3. Production samples in the new colour.
4. Mass production after sign-off.

Each round adds days. Build this into the launch plan; it is in addition to the normal sample and production times on Wecent’s product pages (samples 2–3 days, mass production 7–15 days after sample confirmation).

Colour tolerance

Pantone references are defined for print. Plastic colour can look different depending on gloss, texture and lighting. Agree a physical reference plaque, the light source for comparison and an acceptable tolerance, and include them in the inspection criteria.

Questions to ask Wecent

• Is the colour moulded in or painted?
• What is the minimum quantity for this colour, and is leftover material charged?
• Is the coloured material covered by the current safety report?
• Can RoHS and REACH evidence be provided for the coloured material?
• How many colour rounds are included in the price?

Is it worth it?

A brand colour helps recognition, especially in retail and corporate gifts. For small test orders, a close stock colour with a coloured logo or packaging can deliver most of the effect at lower cost. Decide after seeing the itemised quote.

Where this answer says confirm with Wecent, the detail is not published on the product page and has to come from the datasheet or the factory. General facts come from the standards bodies, regulators or device makers named in the text.