Choosing an OEM apparel partner starts with a repeatable brief, not a headline MOQ or an unverified capacity claim. Send the same specification to each supplier so the answers can be compared.
Define the garment before asking for a price
Include a tech pack or reference sample, target fit and size range, fabric composition and weight, colours, artwork, labels, packaging, quantity by style and colour, destination and required arrival window. Mark what is fixed and what the factory may propose. If fabric or construction is undecided, ask for alternatives with separate prices.
Compare the full quotation
Ask whether minimum quantities apply per style, colour or fabric order. Separate sample fees, tooling, material minimums, decoration, packaging, testing, freight and taxes. Request the payment milestones and the conditions that start the production schedule in writing. A number without these assumptions is difficult to compare.
Use the sample as a control
Review fit, measurements, fabric hand feel, colour, seams, print or embroidery position, labels and care instructions on a physical sample. Record each revision, then identify the approved version and matching specification. Changes after approval need a new cost and timing assessment.
Agree how quality and delivery will be checked
Define measurement tolerances, workmanship criteria, inspection stages, defect reporting and who releases shipment. Confirm which operations occur at the stated site and whether specialist processes involve partners. Ask for current workshop evidence relevant to your garment, not a generic factory photograph.
Use the sampling process and inspection process as discussion checklists. Share your brief through the project enquiry to confirm order-specific feasibility.
