Manufacturing Process
Plastic Injection Molding
High-volume plastic parts from steel or aluminum molds.
- Tolerance
- ±0.05 mm
- MOQ
- 1,000 pcs typical
- Lead time
- Mold 25–45 days · parts 10–20 days
Capabilities
| Machine size | 50–1,600 tons |
|---|---|
| Mold types | Single, multi-cavity, family, hot runner |
| Overmolding & insert molding | Available |
| Mold life | 100K–1M+ shots |
Typical products
- Electronic enclosures
- Consumer product housings
- Caps, closures and containers
- Automotive interior parts
Finishing options
- Texture (VDI / MT)
- High gloss polish
- Pad printing and silk screen
- Painting and UV coating
Compatible materials
Industries using this process
Where it’s strongest in China
Shenzhen
China’s electronics and hardware innovation capital.
- Consumer electronics
- PCB and electronic components
- Drones and robotics
- LED and display
Dongguan
The “world’s factory” for molding, tooling and contract manufacturing.
- Mold making and injection molding
- Electronics assembly
- Furniture
- Packaging and printing
Ningbo
Home appliances, hardware, molds and auto parts with a world-class port.
- Small home appliances
- Molds and die casting
- Auto parts
- Stationery and textiles
Browse related products from Chinese factories
Plastic Injection Molding: frequently asked questions
What tolerances can Chinese factories hold for plastic injection molding?
Typical tolerances are ±0.05 mm. Tighter tolerances are possible on critical features but increase cost — mark them on the drawing and leave the rest at general tolerance.
What is the minimum order quantity for plastic injection molding?
Typical MOQ: 1,000 pcs typical. Smaller pilot runs are often possible at a higher unit price.
How long does plastic injection molding take in China?
Typical lead time: Mold 25–45 days · parts 10–20 days, plus shipping. New tooling, special materials and finishing can add time.
Where in China is plastic injection molding strongest?
Strong clusters include Shenzhen, Dongguan, Ningbo. We source from the region that best fits your material, volume and finish.
What should I send to get an accurate quote?
A 3D file (STEP) and a 2D drawing with critical dimensions and tolerances, the material and finish, quantities per order and per year, and your target price if you have one.
Guides from our sourcing team
Injection Molding: Tooling, Costs and Common DefectsA buyer’s introduction to plastic injection molding and how to avoid expensive tooling mistakes.
Plastic Materials Guide: ABS, PC, PP, Nylon and MoreProperties, typical uses and cost of the plastics most often specified.
3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping Before ToolingWhich prototyping method to use at each stage, and how to move from prototype to production.
Need help with Plastic Injection Molding?
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Explore more: Manufacturing
Die Casting
Aluminum and zinc parts with complex shapes at high volume.
- Tolerance
- ±0.1 mm (machined features ±0.02)
- MOQ
- 500 pcs
Textile Cut & Sew
Garments, bags and soft goods from pattern to finished product.
- Tolerance
- ±1 cm per size spec
- MOQ
- 300–500 pcs per style
Surface Finishing
Coatings, plating and decoration that protect and brand your product.
- Tolerance
- Coating thickness per spec
- MOQ
- Depends on process
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