OEM Drive Thru Menu Board: Custom Manufacturing from Specification to Delivery

When chain brands, system integrators, or ODM brand manufacturers need to deploy drive-thru menu board on a large scale, standard products often struggle to fully align with brand visual guidelines, site size constraints, and functional integration requirements. Choosing a manufacturer with mature OEM capabilities ensures comprehensive customization from structural design to software functionality, while guaranteeing stable mass production delivery and quality control.

As a manufacturing brand specializing in outdoor digital signage, Clientop offers a comprehensive OEM customization service system—spanning from demand alignment, structural design, mold development to mass production and delivery, with each step overseen by a dedicated project team. This article will thoroughly break down the collaboration process for OEM drive-thru menu boards, helping you establish clear expectations before launching a project.

1、 Why are more and more brands choosing OEM customization

In the field of digital menu boards, standardized products can meet basic display needs, but what truly supports the long-term operation of chain brands is often a deeply customized solution. The core value of OEM customization is reflected in the following aspects：

Brand visual consistency. Chain catering brands have strict requirements for VI recognition, from shell color, logo silk screen position to border design, every detail needs to be consistent with the brand manual. OEM customization allows the shell shape, surface treatment process, and brand presentation to be executed completely in accordance with the brand's design specifications, rather than conforming to the existing form of standard products.

Site and installation adaptation. The building structure, lane layout, and installation conditions of different stores vary greatly. Some stores require wall mounted installation, some require column style integration, and some require integration with existing ordering kiosk structures. Through OEM customization, the installation structure, wiring method, and external dimensions of the product can be accurately matched to each type of site condition, reducing the workload of on-site renovation.

Function and system integration. A complete DeLai Speed system typically includes multiple modules such as menu display, order confirmation, payment integration, and kitchen linkage. In OEM mode, manufacturers can reserve interfaces based on the customer's system architecture, integrate specified media players, adapt to specific CMS software, and even incorporate external devices such as sensors and cameras, making the product an integral part of the overall solution.

For chain brands with long-term expansion plans, choosing OEM customization is not just about purchasing a device, but also establishing a stable exclusive supply chain. Client has served multiple regional chain and national brand OEM projects, accumulating rich experience from single product customization to full range product planning.

2、 What aspects can be customized: appearance/structure/size/function/software

Many customers, when they first come into contact with OEM, ask, 'What exactly can we change?'. In fact, the scope of customization is wider than you imagine. The following are the most common customization dimensions for drive thru menu boards：

2.1 Appearance Customization

Appearance is the most intuitive expression of a brand and also the most commonly involved part in OEM customization.

• Shell design: From simple straight edges to curved shapes, from ultra-thin designs to reinforced structures, all can be customized according to the brand's design language.
• Color and Surface Treatment: Supports various surface treatment methods such as customized color codes, powder coating processes, anodizing, screen printing logos, and UV printing.
• Border and Cover: The width of the border, opening method of the cover, anti-theft structure, etc. can be adjusted according to operational need.

2.2 Structure & Size Customization

The sizes are not limited to standard options such as 43 inches, 49 inches, and 55 inches. In OEM mode, you can choose the most suitable screen size and overall structure according to your actual needs.

• Screen size: In addition to the mainstream 43 inch commercial drive thru display, 49 inch outdoor menu board for business, and 55 inch QSR drive thru digital signal, customization of other size specifications is also supported.
• Installation structure: wall mounted, column mounted, suspended, embedded and other installation methods can be used to match different building and site conditions.
• Multi screen splicing: supports a combination menu board structure with dual, triple, or even more screens, and the overall appearance is integrally formed.

2.3 Function & Software Customization

Functional customization determines whether a product can be integrated into your business system. From hardware interfaces to software pre installation, adjustments can be made according to project requirements.

• Hardware interface: Can add serial port, GPIO, USB expansion, POE power supply, WiFi 6/5G module, etc.
• Peripheral integration: Built in cameras, sensors, speakers, microphones, etc., suitable for AI ordering, voice interaction and other scenarios.
• System and software: Supports Android, Windows, Linux and other systems, and can pre install specified CMS software, remote management tools, and device monitoring platforms.

If you are unsure whether a certain feature can be customized, the simplest way is to directly contact the Clientop's project team and send us your list of requirements. We will provide a feasibility assessment and suggested solutions within 1-2 working days.

3、 Complete OEM cooperation process: from inquiry to delivery

A customized drive thru menu board typically goes through the following stages from concept to implementation. Each stage has clear deliverables and timelines, allowing you to always have a clear understanding of the project progress.

3.1 Requirement Communication & Proposal

This is the starting point and the most critical stage of the project. The clearer the requirements, the smoother the subsequent design and production.

Typical cycle: 3-7 working days

Main job: The project manager will liaise with you, collect core information such as product specifications, quantities, delivery times, application scenarios, customization items, etc., and then issue a preliminary proposal and budget quotation.

Deliverables: Proposal (including configuration list, customization suggestions, estimated delivery time, and reference quotation)

I suggest that you prepare the following information during the initial communication, which can significantly speed up the confirmation of the plan:

1. Target application scenarios (indoor/outdoor, climate conditions, installation methods)
2. Screen size preference and resolution requirements
3. Appearance design reference drawings or brand VI specifications
4. Functional Requirements List (System, Interface, Peripherals, etc.)
5. Estimated purchase quantity and expected delivery time

3.2 Design & Structural Development

After confirming the plan and signing the cooperation intention, the project enters the formal design phase.

Typical cycle: 10-20 working days, depending on the complexity of customization

Main job: Structural engineer conducts 3D modeling according to requirements, completes detailed design of shell structure, heat dissipation system, waterproof design, installation structure, and outputs BOM list. For projects involving mold development, mold design review will be conducted simultaneously during this stage.

Deliverables: 3D structural diagram, 2D engineering drawing, BOM list, mold scheme (if mold opening is required)

At Clientop, every design drawing undergoes internal review, with a focus on checking heat dissipation performance, waterproof rating, structural strength, and manufacturability to ensure that the design scheme is technically reliable. The design documents will be sent to the client for confirmation, and only after both parties reach an agreement can we proceed to the sampling stage.

3.3 Prototyping & Validation

Sample making is a crucial step in turning a design proposal into a physical object, and it is also the best time to discover and solve problems.

Typical cycle: 15-30 working days (including longer mold opening time)

Main job: Produce the first prototype, complete functional testing, environmental testing, and appearance confirmation. After receiving the prototype, the customer conducts actual installation testing and functional verification, and proposes modification suggestions.

Deliverables: First prototype, test report

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3.4 Mass Production & Quality Control

After the prototype is confirmed, the project officially enters the mass production stage.

Typical cycle: 25-45 days, depending on the order quantity and material situation

Main responsibilities: material procurement, SMT mounting, whole machine assembly, aging testing, quality inspection. Each batch is strictly produced according to the confirmed prototype standards, and it is not allowed to change materials or processes arbitrarily。.

3.5 Packaging & Delivery

After production is completed, the product can be arranged for shipment after final inspection.

Main responsibilities: final inspection of finished products, customized packaging (with customizable outer box markings and packaging methods), arranging logistics, providing shipping documents (packing lists, inspection reports, etc.).

If you want to have a more systematic understanding of the application scenarios and types of drive thru menu boards, you can first read this popular science article on what is a digital drive thru menu board.

4. Sampling stage: How long does it take and how is the cost calculated

Sample making is one of the most concerning aspects for customers in OEM projects - how long does it take? What is the cost? Can the sampling fee be refunded? Below is a concentrated explanation.

4.1 Prototype Lead Time

The sampling cycle depends on the depth of customization and is mainly divided into the following situations:

• Standard model modification (without structural changes): 7-10 working days. Mainly involves replacing panels, pre installing software, adjusting interface configurations, etc., without the need for new molds or significant structural modifications.
• Mild structural customization: 15-20 working days. Partial structural adjustments, such as changing installation methods, modifying cover designs, etc., can be achieved through CNC prototyping or simple molds.
• New mold customization: 30-45 working days. We need to develop a brand new shell mold, which includes multiple stages such as mold design, mold manufacturing, trial molding, and first sample confirmation.

4.2 Sampling Fee Structure

The composition of the sampling fee varies by project and usually includes the following parts：

Prototype cost: refers to the material and labor costs of the prototype itself. The cost of a single prototype is usually higher than the batch unit price, because small batch procurement of materials does not have a scale advantage, and the production setup cost needs to be shared.

Mold fee (if mold opening is required): Customization of a new structure requires payment of mold development fees. The mold fee can usually be refunded or deducted according to the agreed proportion after the production order reaches the agreed quantity, and the specific details are subject to the contract.

Engineering service fee: Projects involving special feature development, software customization, or complex structural design may require separate engineering service fees. 

Regarding the specific cost figures, it is difficult to provide a unified quotation as the customization level and configuration of each OEM project vary. The most direct way is to contact the sales team of Client op, describe your needs, and obtain a targeted quotation plan. Meanwhile, for projects that have been confirmed for subsequent mass production, the sampling fee can usually be deducted from the production order as agreed, reducing your upfront investment.

5. Mold development and structural design capabilities

For OEM projects with deep customization, the mold development capability directly determines the final quality and mass production stability of the product. A strong manufacturer should have a complete chain from structural design to mold manufacturing and injection molding.

Structural design team. A professional structural design team is the foundation of OEM customization. Engineers need to consider multiple dimensions simultaneously, including appearance, heat dissipation design, waterproof and dustproof, installation structure, maintainability, and manufacturability. Especially for outdoor application drive thru menu boards, the requirements for waterproof and heat dissipation are much higher than indoor products, and the quality of structural design directly affects the service life and reliability of the product.

Mold development capability. The accuracy and quality of the mold determine the consistency of the appearance and structural stability of the final product. A good mold should be able to support mass production without issues such as flash, shrinkage, deformation, etc. The manufacturing base of Clientop is equipped with a professional mold workshop, which can independently complete the entire process from mold design, CNC machining, EDM discharge to trial mold adjustment, ensuring controllable mold development cycle and quality.

Materials and processes. The commonly used shell materials for outdoor digital signage include galvanized sheet, aluminum alloy, and engineering plastics. Different materials have different characteristics and applicable scenarios. In OEM projects, the most suitable materials and surface treatment processes can be selected based on budget, protection requirements, and appearance positioning.

Although there is some initial investment in mold development, for chain brands with stable demand, the brand value and product differentiation brought by customized molds can often be fully rewarded in long-term operation.

6. Quality control system: incoming materials/process/factory inspection

In OEM cooperation, quality control is one of the most important abilities for customers - when you entrust an order to a factory, the most important concern is whether the quality of each product is stable and consistent.

Regarding product selection considerations, you can also refer to this drive thru menu board selection guide to evaluate whether the product meet your needs from more dimensions.

6.1 Incoming Quality Control

Quality starts from the source. Before each batch of raw materials and components is put into storage, strict incoming inspection is required.

• LCD screen: check the model, specifications, appearance highlights, dark spots, brightness uniformity, etc
• Power supply and driver board: power on test, specification verification, appearance inspection
• Structural components: dimensional inspection, appearance inspection, surface treatment quality inspection
• Electronic components: batch traceability, specification verification, sampling inspection

6.2 In-Process Quality Control

Each key process in the production process is equipped with inspection nodes to ensure timely detection and handling of problems, preventing defective products from flowing into the next process.

• After SMT mounting: AOI optical inspection to check the welding quality
• Whole machine assembly: self-inspection at each workstation + inspection and sampling
• Aging test: The whole machine is aged for more than 4 hours when powered on, and early failures are screened
• Waterproof testing: Outdoor models undergo waterproof spray testing one by one

6.3 Outgoing Quality Control

• Before packaging the product, it needs to pass the final factory inspection to ensure that every product sent out meets the quality standards
• Appearance inspection: Full inspection of appearance items such as shell, screen, and identification
• Functional testing: Full inspection of display, touch, interface, network and other functions
• Packaging inspection: checking the completeness of accessories, packaging method, and outer box labeling

At Clientop, our understanding of quality control is that quality is not determined by inspection, but by design and manufacturing. Therefore, we fully consider manufacturability and reliability in the product design stage, strictly implement standardized operations in the production process, and reduce the defect rate from the source.

7. Delivery Time and MOQ Explanation

Delivery time and minimum order quantity are important considerations in B-end procurement decisions. The following is a general description of OEM customization projects.

7.1 Lead Time Explained

The delivery time of OEM projects is usually divided into two stages: sample delivery time and batch delivery time:

Sample delivery time: As mentioned earlier, the sample cycle varies from 7 days to 45 days depending on the customization depth. Standard modifications can take up to 7 days to produce samples, while new molds require 30-45 days.

Batch delivery time: After the prototype is confirmed, the batch delivery time for standard models is usually 25-35 days; Models with a high degree of customization typically have a bulk delivery time of 35-50 days. The specific delivery time needs to be determined comprehensively based on the order quantity, material situation, and production capacity scheduling.

The main factors affecting delivery time include: material procurement cycle (especially LCD screens and core chips), degree of customization, order quantity, factory capacity scheduling, etc. For projects with clear delivery time requirements, it is recommended to start as early as possible and reserve sufficient buffer time.

7.2 Minimum Order Quantity

The MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) of OEM projects is directly related to the depth of customization:

• Standard model upgrade: With a lower minimum order quantity, it is suitable for small and medium-sized projects.
• Mild structural customization: There is a certain minimum order quantity requirement, which will be evaluated based on the extent of structural change.
• New mold customization: The minimum order quantity is relatively high. But for chain brands with stable demand, the customized benefits and cost reduction brought by mold opening are worth it in the long run

The specific MOQ number varies depending on the project. It is recommended to directly communicate your purchasing quantity and customization requirements with the account manager, who will provide the most reasonable solution based on the actual situation. For first-time customers, it is also possible to start with small batch trial orders and gradually establish trust in cooperation.

8. How to start your OEM project

By this point, you may already be considering launching your own OEM customization project. So where should we start specifically? The following are the recommended steps for operation：

Step 1: Organize the list of requirements. Organize your expectations for the product into text, including application scenarios, size preferences, functional requirements, appearance ideas, expected quantities, and time requirements. The more specific the better, even if it's just a preliminary idea, it's okay.

Step 2: Contact the manufacturer for communication. Send the requirements to the sales team of Client op, and our project manager will communicate with you as soon as possible, evaluate the feasibility of the requirements, and provide preliminary proposal suggestions and budget scope.

Step 3: Scheme confirmation and sampling. After both parties reach an agreement on the plan, we can proceed to the sampling stage. You will receive a physical prototype, which can visually inspect the appearance, function, and quality, and provide modification suggestions.

Step 4: Confirm mass production. After confirming the correctness of the prototype, sign a formal contract and issue a mass production order. During the production process, the project team will regularly report progress to you to ensure timely delivery of the project.

OEM customization may seem complicated, but as long as you find the right partner, the entire process will be very smooth. The key is to choose a manufacturer with design capabilities, quality control system, and project management experience, and entrust professional tasks to professionals.

If you are looking for a reliable custom drive thru menu board manufacturer, please feel free to contact the OEM team at Clientop. Whether you need a prototype validation solution or plan for large-scale deployment, we can provide professional customized services and stable delivery guarantees.

FAQ  

Q1: What is the minimum order quantity for OEM customization? Can we do it in small batches?

A: The minimum order quantity depends on the depth of customization. The minimum order quantity for customized modifications of standard models is relatively low, making it suitable for small and medium-sized projects; New mold customization requires a relatively high minimum order quantity. The specific numbers need to be evaluated based on your customized content and procurement volume. For first-time customers, it is also possible to start with small batch trial orders. Suggest directly contacting the sales team to obtain accurate MOQ information.

Q2: How much is the sampling fee? Can the sampling fee be refunded?

A: The sampling fee varies depending on the degree of customization, usually including prototype costs, engineering services, and possible mold costs. For projects that require subsequent mass production, the sampling fee and mold fee can usually be deducted or refunded according to the agreed proportion in the mass production order, subject to the contract signed by both parties.

Q3: How long does it take from sampling to bulk delivery?

A: The entire cycle depends on the customization depth. Standard model modification project, sampling takes 7-10 days, batch production takes 25-35 days; New mold making project, sample making takes 30-45 days, batch production takes 35-50 days. It is recommended to start projects with clear delivery time requirements as early as possible and reserve sufficient time buffer.

Q4: What is the scope of customization? Can software systems be customized?

A: The customization scope covers multiple dimensions such as appearance, structural dimensions, installation methods, hardware configuration, interface expansion, peripheral integration, and software pre installation. In terms of software, it supports pre installation of specified operating systems (Android/Windows/Linux), CMS content management software, and device management tools. For projects with special software requirements, we can communicate and evaluate the feasibility of customized development.

Q5: Who owns the intellectual property of OEM customized products? How to handle molds？

A: After the customized appearance design and exclusive mold of the customer reach the agreed quantity in the mass production order, the intellectual property and mold ownership can be transferred to the customer according to the contract agreement. During the cooperation period, the molds will be kept and maintained by the manufacturing base to ensure that they are only used for the production of the customer's products. The specific terms shall be subject to the OEM agreement signed by both parties.