Ordering & Quoting
How do I get a quote for a custom inflatable?
Fill out the quote form on our website or contact us via WhatsApp (+86 182 3034 9811). Share your design files (logo, dimensions, intended use, event date), and our engineering team responds within 24 hours with a detailed proposal and free 3D mockup. No commitment required at the quote stage.
What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?
Our MOQ is 1 piece for all custom inflatable products. We specialise in bespoke, one-off manufacturing for brand activations, events, and retail launches. Bulk pricing discounts are available for orders of 5 units or more.
Can I get a price estimate before providing full artwork?
Yes. If you provide the product type, approximate dimensions, quantity, and destination country, we can provide a budget price range within a few hours. A firm fixed quote requires your final artwork and confirmed specifications, but a budget estimate is available with just a brief description.
What information do I need to provide to start an order?
To start, provide: (1) your brand logo in vector format (.AI, .EPS, or .PDF), (2) desired dimensions or size reference, (3) intended use (indoor/outdoor, event type), (4) target delivery date, and (5) quantity. The more detail you share, the faster we can prepare an accurate proposal.
Do you offer OEM and ODM manufacturing services?
Yes. We are a full OEM/ODM manufacturer. For OEM, we produce your design exactly as specified. For ODM, our in-house design team can develop a concept from a brief — from a rough sketch through to production-ready 3D mockups.
Can I order a sample before committing to a full production run?
Yes. Sample orders are available and are manufactured to the exact final specification, including materials, printing, and hardware. Sample lead times are typically 5–7 working days. Sample costs are credited toward full production orders.
Is there a setup or tooling fee?
There are no mould or tooling fees for standard inflatable products since they are fabric-based. A one-time design and engineering fee may apply for highly complex 3D product replicas requiring detailed CAD structural analysis. This fee is fully credited if you proceed to production.
How accurate is the final quote?
Our quotes are fixed-price once you approve the 3D mockup and confirm final specifications. We do not add hidden charges after confirmation. Any scope changes requested after approval may result in a revised quote.
Design & Customisation
What file formats do you accept for artwork?
We prefer vector files: Adobe Illustrator (.AI), Encapsulated PostScript (.EPS), or high-resolution PDF. For raster images, we require a minimum of 300 DPI at the intended print size. JPEG and PNG files are accepted for reference only — final production always uses vector artwork.
Do you provide 3D mockups before production begins?
Yes — always. Every custom order includes a photorealistic 3D CAD rendering before any material is cut. You can request unlimited revisions to the 3D mockup at no extra charge until you are completely satisfied with the design. Production only begins after your written approval.
How long does it take to receive a 3D mockup?
Our design team delivers an initial 3D mockup within 24 hours of receiving your complete artwork and project brief. Complex multi-element designs may take up to 48 hours. The 24-hour clock starts when we have everything we need — not when you first make contact.
Can you match our exact Pantone or brand colours?
Yes. We use high-precision EFI and Epson digital printing systems capable of achieving accurate Pantone colour matching on Oxford fabric and PVC materials. Please provide your Pantone codes or brand colour guide (CMYK or HEX values are also accepted). We recommend requesting a physical print test swatch for critical colour-sensitive orders.
Why does the inflatable colour sometimes look different from my screen?
Screen colours (RGB) and print colours (CMYK) use different colour models with different ranges. Neons, electric blues, and bright oranges that appear vivid on screen can appear slightly different in print. This is a property of physical printing, not a quality issue. For brand-critical colour accuracy, provide Pantone chip references rather than screen colour codes, and request a physical swatch before full production.
What sizes can you manufacture inflatable letters and signs?
Our inflatable letters and signs are engineered from 0.5 metres (desktop display) to 8 metres in height. The optimal range for free-standing, stable outdoor displays is between 2 and 5 metres. Larger installations (6–10 metres) are available with additional structural engineering and anchoring systems.
Can you replicate our physical product as a giant inflatable?
Yes. Our 3D engineering team uses photographic references and original product measurements to create a giant inflatable replica that accurately captures every curve, label, and detail. We have manufactured giant replicas for beverage cans, spirits bottles, sports equipment, and consumer electronics packaging.
Can inflatables include LED lighting?
Yes. We offer internal LED strip lighting for letters, signs, and product replicas. LED-backlit inflatables provide 360° illuminated visibility at night events and indoor exhibitions. We use low-heat, energy-efficient LED systems compatible with standard international power supplies (110V/60Hz for North America; 220–240V/50Hz for Europe, UK, and Australia). RGB colour-changing and remote dimming are available on request.
Can you add velcro sponsor panels that can be swapped between events?
Yes. We can engineer velcro attachment points into event arches, tunnels, and banner surfaces, allowing interchangeable fabric sponsor panels without reprinting the full inflatable. This is particularly popular with race directors and event agencies who need to accommodate different sponsors at recurring events.
Materials & Quality
What materials do you use to manufacture your inflatables?
Our primary materials are 400D and 600D reinforced Oxford fabric for letters, signs, mascots, and event displays, and 0.4mm–0.6mm PVC tarpaulin for event tunnels, large-scale arch structures, and outdoor long-duration installations. All materials are selected for commercial-grade durability, UV resistance, and colorfastness.
Are your inflatables suitable for outdoor use?
Yes. All of our inflatable products are engineered for outdoor use. Oxford fabric is UV-treated and weather-resistant. PVC tarpaulin is fully weatherproof and cold-weather rated to -10°C. Our products include multi-point tie-down rings and tethering systems. We recommend securing all outdoor inflatables when wind speeds exceed 40 km/h.
How durable are your inflatables? What is their expected lifespan?
With proper care and storage, our commercial-grade inflatables have an expected service life of 3–5 years under regular event use. Products used for permanent or semi-permanent outdoor display have a lifespan of 1–2 years depending on UV exposure and local weather conditions. This multi-season lifespan makes the per-event cost significantly lower than rental alternatives.
Are your products fire retardant?
Yes. All materials used in our production line meet international fire retardancy standards. We hold NFPA 701 (USA/Canada), BS 7837 (UK), and AS/NZS 1530.2 (Australia) fire retardancy certifications. These are required for indoor events, shopping malls, trade shows, and public venues in most countries. Documentation is included with every order and available in advance for venue permit applications.
Are your inflatables noisy when running?
Continuous-airflow inflatables produce blower fan noise of approximately 55–70 decibels — similar to a running vacuum cleaner. This is standard for all advertising inflatables using this design. For quiet indoor environments, luxury venues, or settings where noise is not acceptable, we offer sealed airtight inflatables that are completely silent after inflation. Please specify your environment when enquiring.
What quality certifications do you hold?
InflatCustom holds: CE (European Conformity), SGS audited manufacturing, NFPA 701 Fire Retardant (USA/Canada), BS 7837 (UK), AS/NZS 1530.2 (Australia), EN71 (toy safety, applicable for mascot inflatables), and RoHS (hazardous substance compliance for LED components). Certification documents are included with every order and available on request.
What quality control process do you follow before shipping?
Every custom inflatable undergoes a mandatory 24-hour continuous inflation test prior to packing. During this test, we verify structural integrity, seam strength, blower performance, print quality, colour accuracy, and all attachment points. A multi-point QC checklist is completed and signed off by our QC team. Production progress photos are sent at key stages — cutting, printing, assembly, and QC — without needing to be requested.
Inflation Types: Blower vs Sealed
Do inflatables need to stay plugged in to keep their shape?
It depends on the type. Continuous-airflow inflatables must remain plugged in at all times — the blower runs constantly to maintain pressure. Sealed (airtight) inflatables are pumped once and closed, holding their shape without any power supply for 48 hours or more. Most advertising inflatables (letters, tunnels, mascots, product replicas) use continuous airflow. Smaller decorative balloon models can be either type.
What is the difference between continuous-airflow and sealed airtight inflatables?
A continuous-airflow inflatable has a blower fan running constantly, pushing fresh air in as it slowly leaks out. A sealed (airtight) inflatable is pumped to pressure once and closed with a valve — no power is needed to maintain shape. Continuous-airflow inflatables self-repair minor punctures (the blower compensates while you patch) and are better for large-scale outdoor use. Sealed inflatables are silent, cable-free, and better for indoor retail and luxury venues.
Do I need helium for an advertising inflatable?
No. The vast majority of advertising inflatables — letters, product replicas, event tunnels, mascots, animals, and most balloon-style displays — use a continuous-airflow blower fan, not helium. Helium is only required for inflatables specifically engineered to float freely in the air (tethered parade balloons). All InflatCustom ground-based advertising inflatables use air blowers included with the product.
How long does a sealed inflatable hold air?
Under stable indoor conditions, a well-manufactured sealed PVC inflatable holds air for a minimum of 48 hours. Many clients report 3–5 days before a top-up is needed. Outdoor use with temperature fluctuations (air expands in heat, contracts in cold) reduces hold time and requires more frequent top-ups. A manual inflation pump is included with every sealed inflatable for quick top-ups.
Production & Lead Times
What is the typical production time for a custom inflatable?
Standard custom inflatable production takes 7–15 working days after your 3D mockup is approved and a deposit is received. Simple single-colour letters and signs are typically completed in 7–10 days. Complex 3D product replicas and multi-piece displays take 12–15 working days. The 3D mockup stage (24–48 hours) occurs before production and is not included in the production timeline.
What is the total lead time from order to delivery?
Total lead time from order confirmation to delivery at your door: 3D mockup (1–2 days) + production (7–15 working days) + express freight (5–9 working days depending on destination). Typical total: 13–26 working days, or 3–5 weeks. Rush production (5–7 working days) is available for most product types with a 20–30% surcharge. We recommend allowing at least 4–5 weeks for standard orders, 6–8 weeks for complex designs.
Do you offer rush production for urgent event deadlines?
Yes. Rush production services compress manufacturing to 5–7 working days for most product types. A rush surcharge of 20–30% applies. Rush availability depends on current factory capacity — contact us as early as possible to confirm. Rush production is not available for the most complex 3D replica designs or during peak Christmas season when factory capacity is fully allocated.
When does production begin?
Production begins only after two conditions are met: (1) you have approved the 3D mockup in writing and (2) we have received the agreed deposit payment (typically 30% of the order value). We do not begin cutting materials until both are confirmed.
Can I track production progress during manufacturing?
Yes. We proactively send production progress photos at key stages: fabric cutting, printing, sewing assembly, and the 24-hour inflation test. You can also contact your account manager via WhatsApp at any time for a status update. You do not need to ask — progress photos are sent automatically.
What happens if my inflatable arrives damaged?
Contact us within 48 hours of receiving your shipment and provide photos of the damage and the original packaging. We will assess whether a repair kit, replacement component, or full replacement unit is appropriate, and will file a carrier damage claim on your behalf. Under DDP shipping terms, we retain responsibility for the shipment until delivery — this provides better protection than FOB or EXW terms.
Shipping & Logistics
Which countries do you ship to?
We ship worldwide. We have regular shipping lanes to the USA, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, UAE, and across Southeast Asia. We have delivered products to over 80 countries. Contact us for a shipping quote to your specific location.
What does DDP shipping mean and does it include customs duties?
DDP stands for Delivered Duty Paid. Under DDP terms, we handle all customs documentation, import duties, taxes, and final-mile delivery to your door. You pay one inclusive price and receive your inflatable without any additional charges on arrival. This is the most convenient option for international buyers and eliminates the need for a freight forwarder or customs agent on your end.
How long does international shipping take?
DHL/FedEx express air freight typically delivers to the USA and UK in 5–7 working days from our factory. Australia: 6–9 working days. Canada: 5–7 working days. Germany and EU: 5–6 working days. New Zealand: 7–10 working days. Economy air freight takes 10–14 working days. Sea freight takes 20–35 days to major ports. We provide tracking numbers for all shipments within 24 hours of dispatch.
Can you deliver before my event date? What if it doesn't arrive in time?
We always give an honest assessment of what is achievable before accepting an order. If your event date is not achievable with standard production and freight, we will tell you immediately and discuss rush options. If you provide your event date when ordering and we confirm it is achievable, we will do everything within our control to meet it. We cannot guarantee delivery dates that are impacted by events outside our control (customs delays, carrier disruptions, weather), but we proactively manage these issues and keep you informed.
What documentation do you provide for customs?
We provide all necessary export documentation including Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, and relevant product certifications (CE, SGS, Fire Retardant). Under DDP shipping, all customs documentation is handled by us. Additional documentation required by your country or venue can be arranged on request.
Is shipping insurance included?
Basic carrier liability is included with all shipments. For high-value orders, we strongly recommend comprehensive cargo insurance, which we can arrange at a nominal cost. Please request this when placing your order.
Setup & Operation
How long does it take to set up an inflatable?
Most of our inflatables are designed for fast, tool-free setup. A standard inflatable letter or sign can be fully inflated and secured within 5 minutes. Larger event tunnels and multi-piece displays may take 15–30 minutes with 2–3 people. Detailed illustrated setup guides are included with every order, and video guides are available on request.
What type of blower is included?
All continuous-airflow inflatables include a high-output, low-noise continuous blower fan rated for the volume of the specific product. We supply blowers compatible with your destination country's power standard: 110V/60Hz for North America and Japan; 220–240V/50Hz for Europe, UK, and Australia. Please confirm your destination country when ordering.
Do inflatables need to be permanently plugged in to stay inflated?
Continuous-airflow inflatables: yes, the blower must remain running throughout display. This is the design of all standard advertising inflatables — letters, tunnels, mascots, product replicas. Sealed airtight inflatables: no, they are pumped once and sealed. If you need a cable-free, silent installation, specify a sealed product type when enquiring.
How do I anchor an outdoor inflatable safely?
All outdoor inflatables include multiple tie-down rings at the base and sides. On grass or soil, use the included ground stakes. On hard surfaces (tarmac, concrete, exhibition floors), use sandbags placed on the base plate anchor rings. In exposed outdoor environments, add guy-wire tethers to surrounding structures. We recommend securing or deflating all outdoor inflatables when wind speeds exceed 40 km/h. A comprehensive anchoring guide is included with every order.
What should I do if my inflatable gets a puncture?
For continuous-airflow inflatables: small punctures are effectively self-sealing while the blower is running — the constant positive pressure compensates. Apply the included self-adhesive patch at your convenience without deflating. For larger tears, apply the patch with the blower off, allow to cure, then re-inflate. Every order includes a puncture repair kit and illustrated repair guide.
How should I clean and store my inflatable?
Clean with mild soap and warm water. Do not use solvents, bleach, or abrasive materials. Allow the inflatable to fully dry before deflating and storing — storing while damp causes mould and material degradation. Store folded loosely in the original bag or a breathable storage bag in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and sharp objects. Proper storage is the single most important factor in achieving a 3–5 year service life.
Payment & Business Terms
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept T/T (Telegraphic Transfer / Bank Wire) in USD, EUR, GBP, and AUD. We also accept PayPal for smaller orders. All prices are quoted in USD by default. For established partners, we can discuss extended payment terms.
What are your standard payment terms?
Our standard terms are 30% deposit to commence production, with the remaining 70% balance paid prior to shipment. For long-term partners and repeat clients, we offer flexible terms including 50/50 or Net-30 arrangements. We do not begin production until the deposit is received — this protects both parties.
Can I pay in instalments?
We do not offer retail instalment payment services (such as Klarna or Buy Now Pay Later). Our payment terms are deposit (30%) to start production and balance (70%) before shipment. For larger orders, we can discuss flexible milestone-based payment schedules — contact us to discuss your specific requirement.
Do you offer a warranty on your products?
Yes. We offer a 12-month manufacturing warranty on all inflatables, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions. The warranty does not cover damage from improper use, weather events exceeding product ratings, or unauthorised modifications.
Can we establish a long-term supply agreement?
Yes. We actively partner with event agencies, marketing firms, and brand activation companies on an ongoing supply basis. Long-term agreements can include priority production scheduling, dedicated account management, volume pricing tiers, and preferential payment terms.
Do you sign NDAs to protect our brand designs?
Yes. We routinely sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) before sharing proprietary design files. Client brand assets and unreleased product designs are never shared with third parties or used in our marketing materials without explicit written permission.
How do I contact you if I have a problem after delivery?
Your dedicated account manager is available via WhatsApp (+86 182 3034 9811) and email (danny@visfurn.com) throughout your order and beyond. We aim to respond to all after-sales queries within 4 business hours.
Applications & Industry Use Cases
What industries do you serve?
Our clients include global advertising agencies, event production companies, sports event organisers, beverage and FMCG brands, shopping mall management companies, theme parks, automotive brands, nightclubs and hospitality venues, and retail chains. We have delivered products to over 80 countries across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East.
Are your inflatables suitable for trade shows and exhibitions?
Yes. Trade show inflatables are one of our core specialisations. Giant 3D product replicas, LED-backlit inflatable signs, and branded booth backdrops dramatically increase booth visibility on a crowded exhibition floor. Our products pack into compact shipping cartons for easy transport between shows. All products for indoor trade show use carry fire retardancy certification accepted by major international convention centres.
Can your inflatables be used for sports events?
Yes. We are a leading supplier of inflatable event tunnels and entrance arches for marathons, cycling events, triathlons, and stadium-based sports. Our tunnels are engineered for high-volume pedestrian flow and are structurally tested for outdoor conditions. We supply events with participant numbers from 200 to over 50,000.
Are your products suitable for shopping mall activations?
Yes. Shopping mall activations are a primary use case for our inflatable letters, mascots, giant product replicas, and seasonal displays. All products for indoor mall use carry fire retardancy certification required by mall management for event approval (NFPA 701 in the USA, BS 7837 in the UK). We regularly supply mall operators in the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and Germany.
Can you manufacture inflatables for nightclubs and bar events?
Yes. Giant inflatable mirror balls, LED character inflatables, branded DJ stage backdrops, and ceiling-suspended balloon displays are all popular in nightclub and hospitality environments. For quiet VIP areas, we recommend sealed airtight inflatables to avoid blower noise. All products carry the fire safety certification required by licensed venue operators.
Are your Christmas inflatables available for shopping mall and retail use?
Yes. Giant inflatable Santa Claus figures, inflatable snowmen, illuminated Christmas trees, and festive balloon displays are available in sizes from 1 metre to 8 metres. All carry fire retardancy certification for indoor mall use. We strongly recommend ordering 8–10 weeks before your intended display date — Christmas season production capacity fills quickly in September and October.