Every day spent clarifying an enquiry is a day added to the sample and to the production window. Factories are not being difficult when they ask a lot of questions; they are trying to avoid producing a sample that fails. Sending a complete enquiry the first time is the fastest way to get an accurate price.
The product definition
- Product type (business suit, blazer, trousers, shirt, waistcoat)
- Two-piece or three-piece
- Fit direction and whether you have a size chart
- Single-breasted or double-breasted
- Lapel style and number of buttons
- Fabric preference or a swatch reference
- Lining preference and whether you want contrast lining
The commercial picture
Quantity is the first thing a factory needs, but the breakdown matters just as much. Tell them how the quantity is split across colours and sizes, and whether you expect the order to repeat. Repeat potential changes how a factory prices the first order, because development cost is spread over a longer relationship.
Also state your target market, your target retail price, and your required delivery window. A factory that knows you need the goods before a specific season can tell you honestly whether it is achievable.
The branding and packing specification
- Label type and whether you supply artwork
- Hangtag requirement
- Polybag or retail packing requirement
- Carton mark requirement
- Whether barcodes need to be applied
Your sample references
If you have a physical sample, send it — an approved garment is worth more than any written description. If you do not, send a tech pack with measurements, or a set of clear photographs with measurements marked. If you only have an idea, say so clearly and ask for ODM development instead of pretending to have a full specification.
What the factory will send back
A professional factory should reply with a quotation that breaks down price, MOQ per colour, sample cost and lead time, production lead time, trade terms, payment terms and the exact list of information still needed from you. If any of those are missing, ask for them before you compare prices — an incomplete quotation cannot be compared fairly with a complete one.
Producing this product?
Tell us your market, quantity and customization requirements. We will confirm MOQ, sample time and production schedule for your order.
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