8 Tips for the Custom Bobblehead Process

IntroductionCustom bobbleheads are a special kind of gift because they usually represent people, companies, animals, or events. Many custom bobblehead vendors operate as eCommerce companies with no physical store location so shopping for these products can be a challenge, especially for first-time customers. Unscrupulous, irresponsible, and downright shady bobblehead dealers don’t make the process any easier. Consumers have to look out for hidden costs, inferior materials, and discrepancies during the proofing process…

Tip #1: Body TypeBobblehead sites offer hundreds of body types

but there’s really two main categories: Fully Custom and Standard Body

Fully Custom can be designed head-to-toe. Standard Bodies are based on certain models

like a businessman (pictured), nurse, baseball

player, etc.

Tip #2: Head BobbleBelieve it or not, some bobblehead websites

charge extra for “head bobble action.” It does not come standard. The lesson here: NEVER assume

anything when it comes to your bobblehead.

No head bobble action, no bobblehead!

Tip #3: Props/AccessoriesBobblehead props and accessories can include a number

of things like hats, glasses, tattoos, logos, handheld objects, and more. Most result in additional charges

that are small ($10-15) but add up quickly.

Some companies don’t list these extra costs on their site.

Instead, the consumer is surprised with an “adjusted”

bill in the end.

Tip #4: BaseA regular base is typically included in the initial price of your bobblehead. However, a larger or

customized base (pictured below) will cost more.

Words and lettering on the base is an additional charge.

Some sites use a flat rate while others charge per

word or letter.

Tip #5: MaterialQuality custom bobbleheads are made from a durable

polyresin material. Some companies opt for polymer clay instead because it shortens the process.

Unfortunately for consumers, polymer clay is a

CHEAPER and much more FRAGILE substitute.

Tip #6: ProofingProofing is the process whereby customers actually

approve, deny, and request changes to their bobblehead. This may be included in the initial cost or an a additional

charge. Not all proofing processes are created equal.

Some sites allow for unlimited proofing while others grant

you ONE proof per stage.

Tip #7: Extra CopiesKeep an eye on pricing when ordering copies of a

bobblehead. Some companies offer a discounted price while others charge full price for the extra copy.

Most companies provide discounts on bulk orders. Ordering 50-100 copies of

a bobblehead could get you a 50% discount.

Tip #8: ShippingIf you’re ordering multiple bobbleheads, beware of

shipping rates. Some sites use flat rate shipping. Others charge per bobblehead, which can be quite costly.

If standard shipping is $10, flat rate allows you to ship

5 bobbleheads for $10. Shipping charges per

bobblehead would cost you $50 for the same order.

Conclusion

Custom bobbleheads are a great gift idea but the process itself can be daunting for new and returning customers. A good website combined with a great customer service team will alleviate most issues but the consumer should always be prepared. Perform your due diligence to ensure you end up with the desired bobblehead product at the right price.

For more information on Custom Bobbleheads, visit CustomBobbleheads.com!