Inflatables FAQ | Buying, Custom, FBA, Shipping & Support

Products 

1) What materials do you use for inflatables?

We primarily use high-grade PVC and composite skins selected for the end use—low-VOC for indoor toys, UV-stabilized for outdoor items, and chlorine-resistant for pools and hot tubs. Textured surfaces improve grip for kids and pets. All compounds are chosen for weldability, airtightness, and compliance with EN71/REACH/CPSIA/ASTM where applicable.

2) How do I choose the right inflatable for kids vs. pets vs. outdoor?

Filter by category and look at the “Best For” notes. Kids’ items emphasize softer textures and clear warnings; pet pools focus on abrasion and traction; outdoor products use UV-resistant skins and reinforced seams. Every product page lists weight/age guidance, compatible pumps, and storage tips to match real-world use.

3) Do your products have noticeable odor?

Low-VOC blends and controlled curing minimize odor. Some scent may appear after heat exposure in transit; it dissipates quickly with ventilation. For sensitive users, we recommend unboxing in a ventilated area and following the quick-start care guide. OEM customers can request even lower-odor formulations where performance allows.

4) What valves and pumps are compatible?

Most products use standard valves compatible with common manual and electric pumps. The product page lists valve type and recommended PSI, plus a short video showing inflation and deflation. If you’re unsure, contact support with the SKU; we’ll confirm the best adapter and inflation time.

5) How durable are seams and handles?

Load paths are reinforced with correctly sized patches and weld windows validated by tensile and tear tests. We place handles where forces remain balanced during use and transport. Maintenance matters: avoid dragging on rough ground and follow storage guidance. Brands can request seam maps in CAD for review.

6) Are replacement parts available?

Yes—valve caps, patches, repair kits, and selected accessories. For B2C, check the product page or contact support. For B2B, we can include spare parts in cartons, add QR-linked instructions, and pre-position spares in US/UK/DE/CA warehouses to shorten response time.

7) What warranty do you provide?

Consumer products include a clear warranty against manufacturing defects within a defined period; custom OEM terms are set in the purchase agreement. We require photos and lot information to validate claims quickly. Approved cases receive replacements or credits; insights loop back into production to prevent recurrence.

8) How do I clean and store inflatables?

Rinse with fresh water, use mild soap if needed, and avoid harsh solvents. Dry fully before folding to prevent odors or mildew. Follow the recommended fold sequence to protect seams and valves, and store away from extreme heat or cold. Our printable guide shows the exact steps and photos.

Product Development 

1) Can you customize colors, textures, and branding?

Absolutely. We support OEM/ODM for colors, textures, logos, graphics, and packaging. Provide your brand guidelines or choose from our palettes and emboss options. We’ll map customization to materials and printing processes that keep compliance intact and ensure consistent results across production runs.

2) How fast can I get a prototype?

With a complete brief (category, dimensions, target user, compound, packaging), we deliver initial samples in 3–5 days. We include photo evidence—pressure hold, seam macros, valve operation—so stakeholders can decide remotely. Fast iterations reduce overall risk and speed time to market.

3) What files do you accept for artwork and CAD?

AI/EPS/PDF for graphics, and DXF/AI for cut paths and templates. Our CAD layers label thickness, grain direction, and weld windows for easy adjustments. If you only have sketches, we can redraw into production-ready files and return them with annotations to align your team.

4) Can you match my target weight and rigidity?

Yes—by tuning compound, thickness, internal structure, and seam routing. For kayaks/SUPs we’ll A/B test stiffness vs. weight; for pet pools, we balance abrasion resistance with paw comfort. We recommend confirming targets during the prototype stage to avoid surprises in production.

5) Do you help with warning labels and instructions?

We provide multilingual templates sized for legibility and contrast, plus iconography that aligns with the destination market. We also create quick-start leaflets and QR links to short setup videos. Clear, consistent communication reduces returns and improves reviews.

6) Can you redesign an existing product to reduce returns?

Yes. We analyze return reasons—odor, leaks, setup difficulty, damage in transit—and propose fixes: compound change, valve relocation, seam reinforcement, revised fold sequence, or packaging upgrades. We test the new design against the original to confirm measurable improvement before relaunch.

Product Testing

1) What tests do you run for durability and safety?

Pressure-hold, seam tensile and tear, abrasion on ground-contact points, UV exposure, and cold-fold resilience. For kids’ items, we add small-parts and flammability checks per relevant standards. Packaging undergoes drop and vibration tests to mirror sortation and last-mile conditions.

2) How do you ensure lab results match real-world use?

We pair formal lab tests with scenario checks: repeated inflation/deflation cycles, outdoor sun/heat exposure, and quick setup drills. We photograph outcomes and record target values to build a pass/fail narrative that suppliers and retailers can trust.

3) Can you coordinate third-party testing?

Yes. We prepare labeled samples, book labs, and manage documentation. We also create a traceability matrix linking lots, BOMs, and reports. This structure shortens approvals and reduces the chance of retesting during audits.

4) What happens if a test fails?

We use a root-cause matrix to isolate drivers—compound hardness, weld window, patch size, or labeling. Corrective actions are tested quickly with photo evidence and numeric goals. We retest only the affected scope to save time and budget.

Manufacturing Process

1) What is your production flow?

Raw material prep → cutting → welding/heat seal → reinforcement → valve install → pressure-hold check → cleaning and texture inspection → packing and labeling → final AQL. Each step includes photo checkpoints to prevent defects from moving downstream.

2) How do you control quality on the line?

Operators follow visual SOPs; leads run spot checks for seams, valves, and labels. We tag non-conformances immediately, capture macro photos, and implement corrective actions. Final AQL sampling reinforces line checks for stable outgoing quality.

3) What is your capacity and lead time?

Our integrated facilities support high volumes with thousands of molds and automated cutting. Standard lead times depend on season, but we can stage inventory in US/UK/DE/CA to protect launches. Rush options are available for smaller runs after feasibility review.

4) Can you support sustainable practices?

We track energy per unit, yield, and scrap recovery. Optimized nesting reduces off-cuts; clean edge-trim streams support recycling where facilities exist. We can document these metrics for retailer sustainability programs when claims pass internal review.

5) How do you handle packaging at scale?

We standardize fold sequences, on-box warnings, and barcode placement. Carton ECT and pallet patterns align with route length and DC handling. For FBA, we follow label placement and over-box rules to minimize chargebacks.

Design 

1) How do you design for kids’ safety and fun?

We combine child-safe materials, rounded geometries, secure handles, legible warnings, and bright but balanced color palettes. The goal is intuitive play with minimal setup, reduced tripping hazards, and sturdy seams that withstand active use.

2) What makes a pet pool different from a kids’ pool?

Traction and abrasion define success. We use textures that provide paw grip and reinforce impact points where dogs lean or jump. Valves and seams are protected from scratching, and the fold pattern avoids sharp creases that could create weak spots.

3) Can you adapt designs for extreme sun or cold?

Yes—UV-stabilized skins, modified weld windows, and cold-fold guidance. We recommend specific storage advice and include it on-box. Regional selling plans benefit from matching compound and color to local climate.

4) Do you provide 3D/visualization support?

We supply annotated CAD and simple 3D previews. For listings, we create accurate hero images, dimension charts, and texture macros to set expectations and improve conversion.

Samples

1) How do I request a sample?

Send a brief with category, target user, dimensions, materials, packaging, and channel (Amazon/Retail/DTC). We confirm feasibility, price, and delivery window, then ship with tracking and a photo test memo.

2) Are sample costs refundable?

Often credited against the first PO above a threshold. We’ll note the credit policy on your quotation to keep budgeting transparent.

3) What comes with the sample?

The unit, valve/pump notes, warning panel mockups, and a test memo with photos: pressure hold, seams, valves, and pack sequence. You can annotate directly and return feedback for iteration.

4) Can you rush samples?

Yes—subject to materials on hand and complexity. We’ll propose the fastest path and any trade-offs, then keep you updated with photos.

5) How do we evaluate samples remotely?

Use our checklist: inflation, pressure hold duration, valve function, comfort/texture, and fold/storage. Share annotated photos or short clips and score against your goals.

6) What if the sample isn’t right?

We adjust geometry, compound, or reinforcement and re-sample quickly. Clear feedback shortens cycles and locks the final spec early.

Orders

1) What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

Pilot MOQs start at 100 units, ideal for market testing. As volumes grow, yield and material purchasing improve, reducing unit costs. We’ll show breakpoints on your quote.

2) How do I place a B2B order?

Approve the spec and sample, confirm packaging and labels, then issue a PO. We share a milestone schedule—deposit, production, QC, balance, shipping—and provide photos at each stage.

3) Can I split a PO across regions?

Yes. We can divide finished goods to US/UK/DE/CA nodes to shorten routes and support launches across channels. You’ll see landed cost differences by lane.

4) How are delays handled?

We flag risks early and offer alternatives: material swaps, line rebalancing, interim shipments, or partial releases. Transparent updates keep your calendar accurate.

5) What if I need custom packaging?

We’ll adapt dielines, inserts, and labels for FBA or retail. Packaging is tested for drop/vibration and aligned to barcode placement rules to avoid chargebacks.

6) Do you provide HS codes and paperwork?

Yes—commercial invoice, packing list, HS codes, and any test reports needed for clearance. For retail, we align ASN/EDI needs when applicable.

7) Can I reorder with minor updates?

Of course. We version control artwork and specs, then run a quick verification sample or golden sample confirmation before starting.

8) What is your return policy for wholesale?

Defect-based credits or replacements per agreement. We will require photos and lot details to resolve quickly and prevent repeated issues.

Company

1) Where are you located?

American Epsilon Inc., 6029 Primrose Ave, APT5, Temple City, CA 91780, USA. US warehouse (Emily): 1706 East Francis St, Ontario, CA 91761 | +1-626-328-5175. Overseas hubs: Acheson, AB (CA), Doncaster (UK), NRW (DE).

2) What markets do you serve?

We sell globally across the US, Canada, Europe, Japan, Australia, and more—via DTC, marketplaces, and retail partners. Regional content covers labeling, language, and logistics differences.

3) What certifications do you follow?

We design to EN71/REACH, CPSIA/ASTM, and RoHS where applicable. Our quality management aligns with ISO best practices; packaging can meet FSC/PEFC requirements when requested.

4) How big is your R&D team?

27+ specialists across polymers, structure, kids’ color psychology, pet behavior, and ergonomics. We run >500 tests annually and launch 1,000+ new or updated products each year.

5) Can you support small brands?

Yes—low MOQs, templated specs, and clear SOPs reduce barriers. Many successful brands began with pilot orders and scaled with our regional warehousing.

6) How do I contact you?

Email epsilon2100@yahoo.com or the warehouse address above for logistics. Share your brief, timeline, and channel; we’ll respond within one business day.

Amazon FBA Service

1) What’s included in FBA prep?

Correct polybag thickness and warnings, barcode placement, carton ECT by route, over-box rules, and pallet patterns. We provide pass/fail photos and a printable checklist for your 3PL.

2) Do you label and ship directly to FBA?

Yes. We can apply FNSKU labels, master labels, and schedule carrier pickups to your assigned FCs. You receive ASN details and tracking so inventory checks in smoothly.

3) How do you prevent chargebacks?

By standardizing labeling and pack density, protecting valves, and validating cartons with drop/vibration tests. We also keep photographic records to resolve disputes quickly.

Shipping Solutions

1) Where do you ship from?

From Ontario (US), Doncaster (UK), NRW (DE), and Acheson (CA). Staging near customers shortens routes and reduces damage. We’ll recommend lanes based on product sensitivity.

2) Can you handle DDP or mixed Incoterms?

Yes—EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP depending on destination and volume. We align paperwork and HS codes and provide carton/pallet photos for receiving.

3) How do you manage peak season risk?

Early staging, safety stock, and split shipments across regions. Packaging and pallets are tuned for sortation pressure to keep performance steady.

Brand Distribution

1) Do you work with distributors and retailers?

Yes. We unify specs across channels, then adapt only where needed (carton, pallet, label language). We support pilot buys and phased expansion.

2) What support do you provide for sell-in?

Hero images, dimensions, macro textures, instructions, and compliance summaries. We can join line reviews with clear test plans and packaging diagrams.

3) How do you protect margins?

Accurate specs reduce rework, and regional warehousing shortens routes. Our calculators show cost/volume breakpoints so you can price confidently.

4) Can you do private label?

Absolutely—OEM/ODM with custom branding, packaging, and instructions. We maintain a master spec to keep Amazon and retail consistent.

5) How do you handle returns in distribution?

We set clear RMA criteria, collect photos, and analyze trends to fix root causes. Spares and replacements can be pre-positioned to speed service.

6) What data do you share post-launch?

Defect rates, transit damage, and common support topics. Feedback loops inform design tweaks and packaging improvements for the next buy.

Dropshipping

1) Do you offer dropship for marketplaces?

Yes. We pack to order, apply scannable inserts, and share tracking quickly. Packaging is tuned to prevent valve dents and seam stress during last-mile handling.

2) Can you brand inserts and paperwork?

We can include brand cards, QR manuals, and return guidance. Consistent messaging lowers support tickets and increases repeat purchases.

3) What are processing times?

Typically 24–72 hours depending on volume and season, with SLA options for partners. Inventory visibility and regional staging keep delivery predictable.

Payment Methods

1) What payments do you accept?

Major credit cards for DTC; bank transfers and milestone payments for B2B. Details appear on quotations and invoices to simplify approvals.

2) Are deposits required for custom orders?

Yes, a deposit at PO, balance before shipment after QC approval. We provide photos and documents to support each milestone.

3) Do you support multiple currencies?

USD/EUR/GBP/CAD for larger B2B programs; DTC payments settle in your storefront currency. We’ll confirm bank details securely in writing.