Buy Wholesale Toy Vehicles

It goes without saying: the toy market is booming. But one segment in particular is worth noting: toy vehicles. They're not just growing in popularity, they're flying off the shelves!

Why are they so popular?

They appeal to everyone: Toy vehicles, like Hot Wheels and Matchbox, bring back memories for adults and are super cool for kids, who love modern tech toys like RC cars and drones.
They're fun: Playing with toy vehicles is not just fun but also fires up the imagination, making them great for kids of any age.
Collectors love them: Some toy vehicles, especially old ones, are really valuable and attract collectors.

What does this mean for retailers?

This huge appeal means that selling toy vehicles can be very profitable. Whether you've been selling toys for a while or are just getting started, there's a big chance to make money in this market.

Interested in getting in on this? Let's go over what you need to know about buying wholesale toy vehicles.

Types of Toy Vehicles

As a retailer, there are three major types of toy vehicles that you can sell:

Manually Operated Vehicles: These are your classic, push-and-pull toys. Simple, yet endlessly entertaining for the little ones, they range from basic cars to complex train sets.
Remote Control Vehicles: These are a hit across all ages. With features like speed control and advanced maneuvers, they're perfect for both kids and hobbyists.
Ride-On Vehicles: From pedal cars to mini electric vehicles, these toys are more than just fun. They're great for kids' physical and motor skill development and are a hit with a variety of age groups.

Trends in Toy Vehicles: What's Selling

Let’s talk about the trends and what’s selling in the ‘toy vehicles’. Because knowing this can help you make informed sourcing decisions.

Franchise Tie-ins: Toys linked to popular movies and TV shows are big this year, seeing a whopping 19% sales boost over others. Stocking up on these fan-favorites means tapping into a crowd eager to buy.
Nostalgia Sells: Good old classics like model trains and Tonka trucks are back. These aren’t just for kids; adults love them too, making them a smart pick for your shelves.
Green is In: Eco-friendliness is more than a trend; it’s a necessity and has made its way towards the vehicles as well. Selling toys made from sustainable materials can attract the growing number of eco-conscious shoppers.

Popular Toy Vehicles Right Now

Barbie Vehicles: After the movie's release in July 2023, Barbie toys shot up in popularity, especially among young girls. CNN reports a 25% increase in sales, signaling a strong demand for these toys (including vehicles).
Hot Wheels: One of the best selling toys of all time — need we say more? The demand for Hot Wheels is all year round but it tends to spike in November and December in the U.S., making them a seasonal must-have.
Lego Cars: Lego cars that merge play with constructing are a hot commodity. Their rising popularity, especially in winter, makes them a smart addition to your shelves.
Pedal Cars: These cars are becoming a big hit, and it's easy to see why. They're not just fun to ride; they also get kids moving, which parents love. More and more, parents are looking for toys that help their kids stay active and healthy.

What You Should Look for When Buying Wholesale Toy Vehicles

When selecting wholesale toy vehicles for your retail store, make sure to look for the following things:

Design and Quality Assessment

Visual Appeal and Play Value: Evaluate the aesthetics of various types of toy vehicles (ride-ons, push-pull toys, remote-controlled models, etc.) for their attractiveness and suitability for different age groups.
Material Quality: Inspect the quality of materials used, such as paints, metals, and plastics, to ensure they are durable and safe for children.
Functionality Checks: Test the functioning of various parts like wheels, batteries, hoods, and doors to ensure they work correctly and add to the play experience.

Power Source and Battery Considerations

Battery Life and Maintenance: For electric models, assess the battery life and the ease of maintenance. Ensure that they are user-friendly in terms of charging and upkeep.
Power Source Reliability: Check whether the vehicles have dependable power sources. For instance, lithium batteries in remote-controlled toys should offer high energy density, lightweight construction, and long lifespans.

Variety and Appeal

Wide Selection: Stock a diverse range of vehicle types including cars, trucks, airplanes, trains, and more, in various designs and sizes.
Catering to Different Ages: Ensure your inventory appeals to a wide range of ages and preferences, from simple push-pull toys for toddlers to more sophisticated remote-controlled models for teens and tweens.

Age Appropriateness

Safety for Younger Children: Select toys that are safe for younger children, avoiding sharp edges or small parts that could pose choking hazards.
Complexity for Older Children: Offer more detailed and mechanically complex models that cater to the interests of older children.

Packaging and Presentation

Protective Packaging: Ensure the toys are well-packaged to prevent damage during shipping and handling.
Attractive Display: Choose packaging that is visually appealing and informative, enhancing the product's shelf appeal and assisting in customer decision-making.

Compliance with Toy Safety Regulations in the U.S.

ASTM Standards: Verify adherence to ASTM F963-17 and F963-23 standards, covering safety aspects in physical and mechanical properties, labeling, and flammability.
CPSIA Standards: Ensure the toys comply with CPSIA safety standards, particularly concerning levels of lead and phthalates, to protect children from exposure to harmful substances.
Labeling Requirements: Check that all products are correctly labeled with essential information such as age-appropriate recommendations, warning labels, and materials details.

By focusing on these aspects, you can effectively source a wide variety of high-quality, safe, and appealing toy vehicles for your retail store.