How to Import Claw Machines from China: A B2B Buying Guide？

How to Import Claw Machines from China: A B2B Buying Guide

China is one of the major manufacturing centers for commercial arcade equipment, including claw machines, crane machines, prize machines, capsule toy machines, coin pushers, and other amusement equipment.

For distributors, arcade operators, family entertainment centers, shopping malls, and new entertainment businesses, importing claw machines directly from a Chinese manufacturer can provide access to a wider range of models and customization options.

However, international equipment purchasing involves more than selecting a machine and paying the supplier. Buyers need to consider product specifications, supplier verification, customization, payment systems, packaging, shipping, import documentation, local requirements, installation, and after-sales support.

This guide explains how to import commercial claw machines from China and what B2B buyers should prepare before placing an order.

Why Import Claw Machines from China?

China has a large manufacturing base for arcade and amusement equipment.

For international buyers, purchasing directly from a Chinese manufacturer can offer several advantages:

Wide product selection
Factory-direct purchasing options
OEM and ODM customization
Different machine sizes
Multiple player configurations
Different payment systems
Competitive manufacturing costs
Access to spare parts
Export packaging
Bulk-order capabilities

Buyers can also work with manufacturers to develop equipment for a specific market or entertainment concept.

However, lower manufacturing cost should not be the only purchasing criterion. Product quality, communication, documentation, packaging, shipping, warranty, and technical support are also important.

Step 1: Define Your Claw Machine Requirements

Before contacting suppliers, prepare a basic purchasing specification.

Your requirements may include:

Machine type
Machine size
Number of players
Prize type
Prize capacity
Payment method
Voltage
Plug type
Language
Cabinet color
Artwork
Logo
Lighting
Gameplay requirements
Quantity
Destination port or city

For example, a distributor may need 20 standard claw machines with coin and cashless payment systems, while an FEC may require several different machine sizes for a complete entertainment zone.

The clearer the requirements, the easier it is for manufacturers to provide an accurate quotation.

Step 2: Find a Reliable Claw Machine Manufacturer

There are many companies selling arcade equipment online, but not every seller is a direct manufacturer.

When evaluating a supplier, determine whether the company is:

A manufacturer
A trading company
A distributor
An importer/exporter
A combination of manufacturing and trading operations

A factory-direct supplier may provide better access to production, customization, technical information, and quality control.

However, being a manufacturer alone does not automatically guarantee quality.

Buyers should evaluate the complete supplier profile.

Step 3: Verify the Factory

Before placing a large order, investigate the supplier's production capability.

Useful information includes:

Factory location
Production area
Manufacturing processes
Equipment
Assembly capability
Quality-control procedures
Product testing
Packaging process
Export experience
Production capacity

A factory visit, live video inspection, or detailed production video can provide additional confidence.

For large B2B orders, buyers should be especially careful about suppliers that cannot clearly explain how machines are manufactured, tested, packaged, and prepared for export.

Step 4: Compare Product Specifications

Do not compare claw machines based only on photographs.

Two machines may look similar while having different internal components and configurations.

Ask suppliers to provide specifications such as:

Product dimensions
Weight
Material
Power requirements
Voltage
Player configuration
Claw mechanism
Control system
Payment system
Prize capacity
Screen configuration
Lighting
Packaging dimensions
Gross weight

These specifications make supplier comparisons much more meaningful.

Step 5: Decide Between Standard and OEM Machines

One of the biggest decisions is whether to purchase a standard model or request customization.

Standard Machines

Standard machines are generally suitable when the buyer wants:

Faster production
A proven design
Lower customization requirements
Small initial orders
Simple branding

OEM Machines

OEM machines can be useful for:

Distributors
Arcade chains
Branded entertainment venues
Large projects
Retail partnerships
Businesses building a unique visual identity

Possible customization includes:

Logo
Cabinet artwork
Colors
Lighting
Language
Payment system
Gameplay
Decorative elements

Not every customization requires a completely new machine. Many projects can use an existing cabinet design while modifying selected visual or functional elements.

Step 6: Confirm MOQ

MOQ means Minimum Order Quantity.

Different manufacturers have different MOQ policies.

Some standard machines may be available in relatively small quantities, while extensive OEM development may require a larger order.

Before requesting customization, ask:

What is the MOQ?
Is the MOQ different for standard and customized models?
Does each color or artwork require a separate MOQ?
Is the MOQ calculated per model?
Can different models be combined in one order?

For a first international order, understanding MOQ early can prevent unnecessary quotation changes.

Step 7: Request a Detailed Quotation

A professional quotation should clearly identify what is included.

Ask the supplier to separate:

Machine unit price
Customization cost
Payment-system cost
Packaging
Spare parts
Shipping
Other optional accessories

Also confirm the quotation basis.

Common international trade terms include:

EXW
FOB
CIF
DAP
Other agreed delivery arrangements

The appropriate term depends on the buyer's logistics setup and destination.

Do not compare an EXW quotation directly with a CIF quotation without adjusting for the different cost components.

Step 8: Confirm Payment Terms

Before making payment, confirm the supplier's payment terms in writing.

The agreement should identify:

Total order value
Deposit amount
Balance payment
Payment method
Production start conditions
Production lead time
Shipping arrangements

For customized orders, production normally should not begin until the supplier has the required specifications and approvals.

Keep the final quotation, order confirmation, artwork approval, and payment records organized.

Step 9: Approve Artwork and Customization

If the machine is customized, carefully review artwork before production.

Check:

Logo
Spelling
Colors
Dimensions
Language
Brand positioning
Graphic resolution
Cabinet placement
Lighting areas

A small artwork error can become expensive if it is discovered after production.

For distributors, keep an approved artwork file as a reference for future repeat orders.

Step 10: Confirm Electrical Requirements

Electrical compatibility is essential for imported arcade equipment.

Before production, confirm:

Voltage
Frequency
Plug type
Power consumption
Payment-system requirements

Depending on the destination market, machines may require different electrical configurations.

For example, some markets commonly use 110V systems while others use 220V systems.

Do not assume that changing the plug alone makes a machine electrically compatible. Confirm the complete electrical specification with the manufacturer.

Step 11: Check Certifications and Local Requirements

Different countries and regions can have different requirements for commercial electrical and amusement equipment.

Depending on the destination, buyers may need to consider applicable:

Electrical requirements
Safety requirements
EMC requirements
Environmental requirements
Labeling requirements
Import requirements

Certificates and test reports should be evaluated based on the actual destination market and product configuration.

Do not assume that a certificate used for one market automatically satisfies every country's requirements.

If local regulations are important to the project, confirm them with the relevant authority, customs professional, or compliance specialist before shipment.

Step 12: Choose the Right Export Packaging

Arcade machines can be large and heavy, so packaging is important.

Commercial claw machines are commonly protected with export packaging designed to reduce damage during transportation.

Depending on the supplier and shipment, packaging may include:

Protective film
Foam protection
Corner protection
Wooden frames
Wooden crates
Other reinforced export materials

Ask the manufacturer for:

Packed dimensions
Gross weight
Number of packages
Package photographs
Loading information

These details are necessary for freight planning.

Step 13: Decide Between Sea and Air Freight

For commercial arcade equipment, sea freight is commonly considered for larger shipments because machines can be bulky.

Air freight may be considered for:

Samples
Small quantities
Urgent spare parts
Time-sensitive shipments

Sea freight may be more practical for:

Multiple machines
Container orders
Large equipment projects

The best option depends on machine size, order quantity, destination, delivery requirements, and freight rates.

Step 14: Choose Port Delivery or Door-to-Door Shipping

International buyers may have several logistics options.

Port Delivery

The supplier or freight provider arranges transportation to the agreed port.

The buyer or their logistics partner then handles the remaining import process.

Door-to-Door Delivery

The logistics provider coordinates transportation through to an agreed destination.

This may be more convenient for buyers without established international logistics arrangements.

However, the exact scope of a door-to-door quotation should always be confirmed.

Ask whether the quotation includes:

Ocean freight
Destination handling
Customs clearance
Duties and taxes
Local delivery
Unloading
Other destination charges

Do not assume that the phrase “door-to-door” automatically means every local cost is included.

Step 15: Understand Import Documents

The exact documents required depend on the shipment and destination country.

Common commercial shipping documents may include:

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Bill of lading or transport document
Sales contract or order documentation
Certificate of origin where applicable
Product or compliance documents where applicable

Your customs broker or freight forwarder can advise on the documents required for your specific shipment.

Make sure product descriptions and quantities are consistent across relevant documents.

Step 16: Work With a Freight Forwarder

An experienced freight forwarder can simplify international equipment transportation.

The forwarder may help coordinate:

Pickup
Export procedures
Booking
Ocean or air freight
Shipping documents
Destination handling
Customs coordination
Local delivery

If you already have a logistics partner, provide the manufacturer with the forwarder's contact details and shipment requirements.

If you do not have one, ask the manufacturer whether they can recommend a suitable shipping option.

Step 17: Understand the Difference Between Product Cost and Landed Cost

A machine's factory price is not the same as its final landed cost.

A useful planning formula is:

Landed Cost = Machine Cost + Packaging + Freight + Insurance + Import Duties/Taxes + Destination Charges + Local Delivery + Other Costs

The exact components depend on the trade terms and destination.

This is why buyers should request a complete cost estimate before confirming the order.

A supplier with a lower unit price may not necessarily provide the lowest total landed cost.

Step 18: Inspect the Machines Before Shipment

For larger orders, buyers should consider a pre-shipment inspection or factory quality check.

Inspection can cover:

Cabinet appearance
Dimensions
Artwork
Logo
Lighting
Joystick
Buttons
Claw movement
Payment system
Display
Sound
Prize outlet
Electrical operation

For customized orders, compare the finished machine against the approved specification.

Photos and videos of completed machines can also be useful for confirming the shipment before loading.

Step 19: Prepare for Installation

Importing the machines is only the first part of the project.

Before the shipment arrives, prepare:

Installation location
Electrical connections
Floor space
Access route
Payment system
Prize inventory
Staff
Maintenance tools
Spare parts

For a mall or FEC project, coordinate installation requirements with the property management team before delivery.

Make sure doors, elevators, loading docks, and corridors can accommodate the packaged equipment.

Step 20: Ask About Warranty and Technical Support

International buyers should clarify after-sales support before purchasing.

Ask:

How long is the warranty?
Which components are covered?
How are warranty claims handled?
Are replacement parts available?
Is remote technical support available?
Are manuals provided?
Are setup videos available?
How can spare parts be ordered?

A supplier's after-sales capability becomes particularly important when the buyer operates machines thousands of miles away from the factory.

How to Reduce Risks When Importing From China

Several practical steps can reduce purchasing risk.

Do Not Choose Based Only on Price

A very low quotation may exclude important components or services.

Compare specifications and total cost.

Confirm Everything in Writing

Important requirements should not remain only in chat messages.

Document:

Model
Quantity
Price
Customization
Payment system
Voltage
Packaging
Production time
Shipping term
Warranty

Start With a Practical Order Size

If you have never worked with the supplier before, a smaller initial order can provide useful information about product quality, communication, shipping, and after-sales support.

Larger orders can follow after the supplier relationship has been evaluated.

Keep Spare Parts

International replacement can take longer than local repair.

Keeping commonly needed spare parts on hand can reduce downtime.

Example Import Workflow

A typical B2B purchasing process may look like this:

Requirement → Supplier Search → Product Selection → Quotation → Specification Confirmation → Customization Approval → Order → Production → Quality Check → Packaging → Shipping → Customs → Local Delivery → Installation → Operation

The exact process varies according to supplier, destination, order size, and shipping terms.

Why Work With Fanhong?

Fanhong is a commercial arcade equipment manufacturer based in Panyu, Guangzhou, China.

The company supplies claw machines and other arcade equipment to international buyers, including distributors, arcade operators, FECs, shopping malls, and entertainment businesses.

Fanhong supports standard machines as well as OEM/ODM projects. Buyers can discuss machine models, cabinet customization, payment configurations, electrical requirements, export packaging, and project requirements before production.

The factory covers approximately 13,000 m² and has a stated production capacity of up to 5,000 units per month. Manufacturing processes include cutting, bending, welding, grinding, painting, assembly, and debugging.

For international B2B buyers, the purchasing process can cover product selection, customization, production, export packaging, shipping coordination, and after-sales technical support.

Questions to Ask Before Ordering Claw Machines From China

Use this checklist when contacting a Chinese manufacturer:

Conclusion

Importing claw machines from China can give B2B buyers access to a broad range of commercial arcade equipment and customization options. However, successful importing requires careful planning from supplier selection through final delivery.

Start by defining your machine requirements, then evaluate manufacturers based on production capability, product specifications, quality control, customization, communication, packaging, shipping experience, and after-sales support.

Before paying for an order, confirm the machine configuration, electrical requirements, payment system, artwork, packaging, trade terms, production schedule, warranty, and shipping responsibilities in writing.

Most importantly, calculate the total landed cost, rather than comparing factory prices alone.

With proper preparation and a reliable manufacturing partner, importing commercial claw machines can become a practical sourcing strategy for distributors, arcade operators, FECs, shopping malls, and other entertainment businesses.