How to Get a Manufacturer for Clothing in China: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Yourself and Your Business

• Create Tech Packs: This is the most important document. A tech pack is a detailed blueprint of your garment, containing:
  • Flat sketches/technical drawings (front, back, side)
  • Materials and fabric specifications (e.g., 100% cotton 220gsm)
  • Colorways and Pantone codes (PMS)
  • Grading and size specifications
  • Labeling and packaging instructions
• Define Your Order Volume: Be clear about your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ). Are you looking for 50, 500, or 5,000 units? This will immediately filter out many factories, as smaller workshops have lower MOQs, and large factories have much higher ones.
• Know Your Budget: Have a realistic cost-per-unit target in mind. This helps in negotiations and filters unsuitable options early.

Step 2: Find Potential Manufacturers

• Online B2B Platforms:
  • Alibaba.com: The largest and most well-known. Look for suppliers verified as "Gold Suppliers" or "Assessed Suppliers." Those with a "Trade Assurance" badge offer some buyer protection.
  • Made-in-China.com: Another major platform, often featuring larger factories and heavy industry, but also strong in textiles.
  • GlobalSources.com: Known for connecting buyers with mid-to-large size manufacturers, often with higher quality standards.
• Trade Shows: Attending major apparel fairs is one of the best ways to meet manufacturers face-to-face. Key events include Canton Fair (Guangzhou) and Intertextile Shanghai.
• Sourcing Agents: If you are new to this or cannot travel, a reputable sourcing agent can be invaluable. They have existing networks, handle quality control, and negotiate on your behalf for a fee.

Step 3: Vet and Communicate with Factories

• Communication is Key: Send a detailed, professional inquiry email. Introduce your brand and attach your tech pack. Gauge their responsiveness, English proficiency, and willingness to answer questions.
• Ask Critical Questions:
  • What is your standard MOQ for this type of product?
  • Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the cost (FOB, EXW, etc.)?
  • What is your sample lead time and production lead time?
  • Can I tour your factory? (A video call factory tour is a great alternative).
• Check Credentials:
  • Business Licenses: Ask for their business license to verify they are a legitimate company.
  • Certifications: Depending on your market, you may need factories with specific certifications (e.g., BSCI for social compliance, OEKO-TEX for fabric safety).
  • Client References: Ask for examples of other international brands they work with.

Step 4: The Sampling Process (A Non-Negotiable Step)

• Prototype Sample: The first sample, often made from a similar but not exact fabric, to check the pattern and fit.
• Pre-Production (PP) Sample: This sample is made with the correct fabric, trims, and labels. This is what you will approve before mass production begins.
• Pay for Samples: Expect to pay for samples and shipping. This is standard practice and shows you are a serious buyer.

Step 5: Placing the Order and Quality Control

• Get a Proforma Invoice (PI): The factory will issue a PI detailing the order, costs, and payment terms. Standard terms are a 30-50% deposit with the balance paid before shipment.
• Use a Clear Contract: The contract should cover product specifications, pricing, delivery date, payment terms, and quality standards.
• Conduct Quality Control (QC): Do not assume the final product will match your sample. Hire a third-party QC inspector to check the goods during production (DUPRO) or once production is complete (Final Random Inspection). This protects your investment.

A Key Consideration: Specialized vs. General Manufacturers

Introducing a Specialist in Workwear and Corporate Clothing

• Specialization: They focus on producing durable and professional workwear, including shirts, T-shirts, polo shirts, jackets, and high-visibility safety clothing.
• Full Customization: They are an ideal partner for businesses looking to create branded uniforms, as they provide comprehensive embroidery and printing services to apply your logo directly in their factory.
• Integrated Service: As a manufacturer, they can guide you on fabric selection suitable for different work environments and handle the entire process from raw material to finished, branded product.