Q: Are sample charges refunded against bulk orders?
Refund practice varies, so it must be agreed before the sample is made. A common arrangement is that a sample fee is credited against the bulk order once the order reaches a stated quantity or value, while development charges for new tooling or a new tape colour are often not refundable because the work has been done. Courier and bank charges are usually excluded. Ask three questions: what amount is creditable, what threshold triggers the credit, and when the credit appears, whether on the proforma invoice or only on the final balance. Get the answer in the quotation, not in an email after the fact. If the sample leads to no order, expect the fee to stand. Some suppliers waive the fee for a repeat style already in production. Treat a refundable sample as a commercial signal, not as a discount: the real test is whether the sample matches the production standard. Keep the receipt and the credit note in the order file.