When you order from a planter box factory, drainage holes and liners are not always treated the same. In most factory-direct quotations, drainage holes are considered a basic fabrication detail—provided they are clearly listed in your drawing, sample approval, or order specification. If you simply order a “planter box” without mentioning drainage, some factories may ship a sealed unit, assuming it is for indoor use or a liner will be added later. Others include standard drainage holes by default on outdoor models. So the safe approach is to confirm in writing.

Liners, on the other hand, are more often optional. A liner may be a plastic insert, fabric liner, coco liner, galvanized metal liner, or custom reservoir. Because it uses additional material, cutting, molding, sewing, or assembly, it is usually quoted as an accessory or upgrade. Some factories include a simple plastic liner with large wholesale orders, but many charge extra. Custom liners, self-watering systems, and decorative liners almost always add cost.

Whether drainage holes are free depends on the factory, material, and order size. For wood, HDPE, fiberglass, metal, or composite planters, drilling or punching holes is fast, but it still adds labor. A factory might absorb the cost in the unit price, charge per hole, or apply a one-time setup fee. If you need hundreds of holes in precise patterns, expect a separate charge. If you need side drainage, overflow holes, concealed drainage, or drainage with plugs, that is also a customization.

To avoid surprises, ask for a line-item quote that separates: base planter, drainage holes, liner, hardware, finish, packaging, and shipping. Request a spec sheet or pre-production sample. Confirm hole diameter, quantity, placement, and whether grommets, plugs, or mesh screens are included. Ask whether the liner is removable, UV-resistant, and compatible with the drainage design. If you need both drainage holes and liners included in the unit price, negotiate a package price and state it clearly on the PO.

In short: drainage holes may be included when specified, but never assume they are free. Liners are usually an extra cost unless the factory promotes them as part of a bundle. The final answer depends on your drawings, quantity, material, and the factory’s quotation policy. Always get it in writing before production.