Where to Find Portable Ice Maker Suppliers That Make Crushed Ice?

China remains the central hub for manufacturing portable ice makers capable of producing crushed ice, with key suppliers concentrated in Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Fujian provinces. These regions host vertically integrated supply chains encompassing compressor fabrication, injection molding, and electronic controls assembly, enabling rapid prototyping and scalable production. Ningbo and Yiwu in Zhejiang province specialize in compact, consumer-grade units with high customization flexibility, while Shenzhen and Foshan in Guangdong focus on mid-to-high volume output with strong R&D integration.

The industrial clusters support efficient component sourcing—such as evaporators, condensers, and ABS housing materials—within localized networks, reducing lead times by 15–25% compared to offshore alternatives. Buyers benefit from consolidated logistics infrastructure, particularly in Xiamen and Shenzhen ports, facilitating containerized shipments to North America and Europe within 18–25 days via sea freight. Average monthly production capacity among verified suppliers ranges from 10,000 to 50,000 units, depending on model complexity and automation level.

How to Choose Portable Ice Maker Suppliers That Make Crushed Ice?

Effective supplier selection requires rigorous evaluation across three core dimensions:

Technical and Production Capabilities
Confirm that suppliers operate facilities equipped for full-cycle manufacturing, including CNC machining, plastic extrusion, and refrigeration system testing. Prioritize companies with documented experience in producing crushed or nugget-style ice, which demands specialized auger and evaporator designs. Look for evidence of in-house engineering teams capable of modifying compressor configurations, ice thickness settings, and water circulation systems to meet regional performance standards.

Quality Assurance and Compliance
Verify adherence to international safety and environmental regulations, including CE, RoHS, and UL certifications where applicable. Request test reports for electrical insulation, thermal efficiency, and noise levels (typically 40–50 dB). Suppliers should maintain quality management systems aligned with ISO 9001 principles, even if formal certification is not listed. On-time delivery rates exceeding 96% and response times under 5 hours indicate operational reliability and customer service maturity.

Customization and Transaction Security
Assess customization depth beyond basic color or logo printing—leading suppliers offer modifications in material grade (e.g., food-safe ABS), power voltage (110V/220V), cord length, packaging design, and user interface labeling. Confirm minimum order quantities (MOQs) starting as low as 2 pieces for sample validation, though standard bulk orders range from 200 to 500 units. Utilize secure transaction mechanisms such as escrow services and insist on pre-shipment inspection rights to mitigate fulfillment risk.

What Are the Best Portable Ice Maker Suppliers That Make Crushed Ice?

Performance Analysis
Ningbo Wantong stands out with the highest reorder rate (33%) and robust customization capabilities, indicating strong buyer retention and flexible production. Shenzhen Aurotech leads in responsiveness (≤2h average reply time) and maintains perfect on-time delivery, making it ideal for time-sensitive procurement cycles. Yiwu Aikelansi offers the lowest MOQs (as low as 2 pieces), enabling cost-effective sampling and niche market testing. Xiamen Sunford demonstrates scalability with large-volume order fulfillment (up to 585-piece MOQs) and consistent logistics performance. Foshan Happy Star provides entry-level access with single-unit sampling but shows lower transaction volume and limited customization visibility. Buyers seeking OEM/ODM partnerships should prioritize suppliers with demonstrated design input options and technical documentation support.

FAQs

How to verify a portable ice maker supplier’s reliability?

Cross-check declared certifications (CE, RoHS) through official databases or third-party verification platforms. Request factory audit reports or video tours to confirm production lines and quality control stations. Analyze historical order data, focusing on on-time delivery consistency and post-sale dispute resolution patterns.

What is the typical lead time for bulk orders?

Standard production lead times range from 25 to 35 days after deposit confirmation, depending on order size and customization level. Add 15–25 days for ocean freight to major global ports. Air shipping reduces transit time to 5–10 days but increases costs proportionally.

Can suppliers produce both crushed and cube ice models?

Yes, many suppliers offer dual-function or model-specific variants. Crushed ice production typically uses auger-based systems, while cube models rely on tray freezing. Confirm compatibility with desired ice texture, yield (measured in kg/24h or lbs/day), and cycle speed before finalizing specifications.

Do suppliers provide free samples?

Sample policies vary: some charge full production cost with partial refund upon order placement, while others waive fees for orders exceeding 200–500 units. Expect sample pricing between $40–$170, reflecting unit cost and shipping logistics.

How to initiate customization for private labeling?

Submit detailed requirements including brand logo (vector format), preferred housing color (Pantone codes), language-specific user manuals, packaging dimensions, and regulatory markings. Reputable suppliers will provide proof-of-design within 72 hours and deliver prototypes within 10–14 days for approval.