Pilot batch costs vary by category, batch size, and manufacturer, but founders should budget $1,500 to $10,000 for most CPG pilot runs, covering raw materials, labor, testing, and any reformulation iterations. Some manufacturers fold pilot costs into the first production order; others charge separately. AJ Cosmo Labs' escrowed payment feature lets you structure milestone-based payments so funds are released only when the pilot batch meets your agreed specifications.
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