Questions to Ask a Clothing Manufacturer
Essential production questions to evaluate manufacturing capabilities, quality standards, and partnership reliability for your clothing line.
1What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ) for production?
Click to see why this works
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ) for production?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals whether they can accommodate your production volume and initial investment capacity.
2What types of fabrics and materials do you typically work with?
Click to see why this works
What types of fabrics and materials do you typically work with?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows material expertise, whether they handle your desired fabrics, and if sourcing is included.
3Can you provide samples before committing to full production?
Click to see why this works
Can you provide samples before committing to full production?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Indicates quality assurance process and willingness to demonstrate capabilities before major investment.
4What is your typical lead time from order to delivery?
Click to see why this works
What is your typical lead time from order to delivery?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows production capacity, timeline expectations, and whether they can meet your launch schedule.
5How do you handle quality control throughout the manufacturing process?
Click to see why this works
How do you handle quality control throughout the manufacturing process?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals inspection standards, defect rates, and commitment to consistent product quality.
6What certifications do you hold for ethical and sustainable production?
Click to see why this works
What certifications do you hold for ethical and sustainable production?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows compliance with labor standards, environmental practices, and alignment with brand values.
7What is your pricing structure and payment terms?
Click to see why this works
What is your pricing structure and payment terms?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Indicates cost transparency, deposit requirements, and whether pricing fits your budget model.
8Do you offer design and technical support for pattern development?
Click to see why this works
Do you offer design and technical support for pattern development?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows whether they assist with tech packs, grading, and pattern refinement or just execute orders.
9How do you handle sizing consistency across production runs?
Click to see why this works
How do you handle sizing consistency across production runs?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals quality control for fit, whether sizes match patterns, and consistency over time.
10What happens if there are defects or quality issues with finished products?
Click to see why this works
What happens if there are defects or quality issues with finished products?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows accountability, whether they offer replacements or refunds, and how they handle problems.
11Can you accommodate custom labeling, packaging, and branding?
Click to see why this works
Can you accommodate custom labeling, packaging, and branding?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Indicates flexibility for private label needs, brand identity, and finished product presentation.
12What is your capacity for scaling up production if my business grows?
Click to see why this works
What is your capacity for scaling up production if my business grows?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows whether they can handle increased volume without quality drops or long delays.
13How do you communicate throughout the production process?
Click to see why this works
How do you communicate throughout the production process?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals transparency, update frequency, and whether you'll stay informed or be left wondering.
14Can you provide references from other brands you've manufactured for?
Click to see why this works
Can you provide references from other brands you've manufactured for?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Demonstrates track record, client satisfaction, and willingness to be evaluated by past work.
15What are your capabilities for different garment types and construction methods?
Click to see why this works
What are your capabilities for different garment types and construction methods?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows technical expertise, equipment available, and whether they can handle your specific designs.
16How do you source materials, and can I provide my own fabric?
Click to see why this works
How do you source materials, and can I provide my own fabric?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals material procurement process, flexibility, and control over fabric selection.
17What is your policy on intellectual property and design confidentiality?
Click to see why this works
What is your policy on intellectual property and design confidentiality?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows whether your designs are protected and they won't reproduce them for competitors.
18Do you handle shipping and logistics, or do I need to arrange that separately?
Click to see why this works
Do you handle shipping and logistics, or do I need to arrange that separately?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Indicates whether they provide end-to-end service or if you need separate freight arrangements.
19How do you stay compliant with international trade regulations and import requirements?
Click to see why this works
How do you stay compliant with international trade regulations and import requirements?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows knowledge of customs, duties, and legal requirements for international manufacturing.
20What sets your manufacturing facility apart from competitors?
Click to see why this works
What sets your manufacturing facility apart from competitors?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals their unique strengths, specialization, and what they believe makes them the best choice.
How to Use These Questions
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Guide content not available