China is a major manufacturing market for commercial arcade equipment, making it a sourcing option for arcade operators, distributors, retailers and entertainment businesses around the world.
If you are planning to buy claw machines from China, the process becomes much easier when you clearly define your requirements before contacting manufacturers.
This guide explains the typical B2B purchasing process from product selection to shipping.
1. Define Your Project Requirements
Before contacting suppliers, determine what type of machines you need.
Consider:
Number of machines
Machine size
Single or multi-player configuration
Prize type
Venue type
Available floor space
Payment method
Customization requirements
Destination country
Having this information ready allows manufacturers to recommend suitable models and prepare a more accurate quotation.
2. Find Suitable Claw Machine Suppliers
Search for manufacturers and suppliers that specialize in commercial arcade equipment.
When evaluating suppliers, look at:
Product range
Factory information
Manufacturing experience
Customization capabilities
Quality control
Export experience
After-sales support
It is also useful to review actual machine videos and production information rather than relying only on product photos.
3. Choose the Machine Models
Different venues require different machine configurations.
For example:
Small retail locations may need compact machines.
Arcades may need multiple commercial claw machines.
Shopping malls may prefer visually attractive models.
FECs may require several machine categories.
Distributors may need different models for their customers.
Ask the supplier for detailed specifications before making your final selection.
4. Confirm the Specifications
Before placing an order, confirm:
Machine dimensions
Voltage
Power consumption
Materials
Claw mechanism
Prize capacity
Payment system
Lighting
Control system
Language options
A detailed specification sheet helps prevent misunderstandings during production.
5. Discuss Customization
If you need customized machines, provide the manufacturer with your requirements as early as possible.
Common customization options include:
LOGO
Colors
Exterior graphics
Cabinet design
Lighting
Stickers
Payment system
Machine size
For OEM and ODM projects, confirm the design and specifications before production begins.
6. Request a Wholesale Quotation
Give the supplier your:
Selected models
Quantity
Customization requirements
Destination
Shipping preference
The supplier can then calculate the product and shipping costs.
Ask whether the quotation includes:
Packaging
Spare parts
Customization
Shipping
Other applicable costs
7. Confirm Production Lead Time
Before making payment, confirm the expected production schedule.
The lead time can depend on:
Machine availability
Order quantity
Customization
Production schedule
Packaging requirements
If you have a planned store opening or event date, communicate the deadline to the supplier in advance.
8. Confirm Packaging and Shipping
Arcade machines require suitable packaging for international transportation.
Discuss:
Packaging method
Carton or wooden case requirements
Shipping method
Delivery destination
Container loading
Shipping schedule
The appropriate shipping method depends on the order size and destination.
9. Prepare Spare Parts
For commercial operation, it can be useful to order commonly needed spare parts together with the machines.
Depending on the machine model, these may include:
Claw components
Motors
Control boards
Joysticks
Lighting components
Payment components
Having spare parts available can reduce downtime during operation.
10. Inspect the Machines Before Shipment
For larger orders, buyers may arrange pre-shipment inspection.
The inspection can cover:
Appearance
Dimensions
Electrical functions
Lighting
Claw operation
Payment system
Accessories
Packaging
This provides an additional opportunity to confirm that the order matches the agreed specifications.
11. Work With a Manufacturer That Can Support Future Orders
If you plan to expand your arcade business or distribute machines, long-term supplier cooperation can be valuable.
A suitable manufacturer should be able to support:
Repeat orders
New machine models
OEM projects
Spare parts
Product updates
Shipping coordination
This can make future purchasing more efficient.
Fanhong Arcade Factory
Fanhong Arcade Factory is a commercial arcade equipment manufacturer located in Guangzhou, China.
The company supplies claw machines, prize machines, gashapon machines, capsule toy machines, redemption games, arcade games and vending equipment.
The factory supports OEM and ODM customization and works with international buyers on product selection, customization, production and shipping arrangements.
Conclusion
Ordering claw machines from China does not have to be complicated.
The key is to define your requirements, choose a suitable manufacturer, confirm specifications, discuss customization, request a complete quotation and carefully coordinate production and shipping.
For wholesale buyers, establishing a direct relationship with a commercial arcade equipment manufacturer can also make future orders and product customization easier.
