Most factories say “we offer OEM/ODM” and stop there. The difference decides your cost, your risk, and who owns what you sell. Here is the plain version.
OEM and ODM in plain terms
ODM = you take the factory’s existing design and put your brand on it, with light changes (color, fabric, logo). OEM = you provide or co-develop the design; the factory builds to your spec. ODM is faster and cheaper to start; OEM differentiates but costs more upfront.
Cost structure comparison
ODM spreads development cost across many buyers, so your unit cost stays low and there’s no tooling fee. OEM shifts development cost onto your order via tooling and lower flexibility on small runs. 开模费真看复杂度：小改动便宜，新开模就贵些。我们按项目报价，不玩神秘。 The crossover point is usually volume: below it, ODM wins; above it, OEM’s differentiation pays back.
Who owns the design (IP clause you should ask for)
This is the clause buyers forget. If you pay for a mold, who keeps it? 独家项目里模具和图纸归你，这是我们默认做法。写进合同里，清楚明白。 Get it in writing before any deposit — ambiguous IP is the most expensive surprise in furniture sourcing.
Decision tree by order volume
Starting out or testing a market → ODM from catalog. Proven volume and want a unique SKU → OEM with a clear IP clause. ODM 下面结构、面料、颜色、功能我们都能动。你有图纸发来，我很快告诉你哪些做得、哪些费劲。 Match the model to your stage, not to the factory’s sales pitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper to start? ODM — no tooling fee, lower MOQ. OEM pays back only at higher, differentiated volume.
Who owns the mold I pay for? 独家项目里模具和图纸归你，这是我们默认做法。写进合同里，清楚明白。
Need the exact numbers for your project?
The figures above are industry baselines. For a real quote — loading count for your specific model, MOQ, lead time and certifications for your market — contact our sourcing team with your target specs.