Finding a clothing manufacturer that will work with small businesses and startups can be tricky. Many manufacturers have high minimum order requirements that make it difficult for smaller brands to place an order. However, there are manufacturers out there that cater to businesses of all sizes.
If you’re a startup clothing brand looking to produce your first line, here are five tips to help you find clothing manufacturers with low minimum orders so you can get your business up and running. With some research and persistence, you’ll find a manufacturing partner like Appareify that will grow with your business.
Look for Manufacturers That Specialize in Small Orders
Finding a clothing manufacturer that will work with small minimum order quantities (MOQs) can be challenging. Many manufacturers prefer large orders to maximize efficiency and profits. However, some manufacturers specialize in small-batch production and cater to businesses just getting started.
Appareify is a clothing manufacturer that offers low MOQs, so you can check them out if you want. Here are a few of their tips for locating small-order clothing manufacturers:
- Search for “small batch” or “low minimum order” manufacturers. These manufacturers specifically target small businesses and startups. They’re set up to efficiently handle short production runs.
- Check overseas manufacturers. Manufacturers in China, Vietnam, and other Asian countries often have lower costs of living and labor, allowing them to accommodate smaller orders. Just be sure to find a reputable manufacturer with high-quality products.
- Negotiate the MOQ. If you find a manufacturer you want to work with but their MOQ is too high, ask if they’ll negotiate. Explain your situation as a startup and see if they’ll lower the minimums, especially if you can commit to repeat orders.
- Consider a manufacturing agent. Agents represent multiple manufacturers and can help you find one with an MOQ that suits your needs. They have close relationships with factories and know which ones specialize in small-batch orders.
- Be flexible with styles and quantities. The more specific your design and the more units you want to order, the higher the MOQs will typically be. Keeping styles simple and ordering smaller quantities, at least initially, will open you up to more manufacturing options.
With some persistence, you can find clothing manufacturers like Appareify that will work with you, even with small order quantities. Don’t get discouraged—your perfect manufacturing partner is out there!
Check if They Offer Private Labeling or Customization
Finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum order requirements means you have more flexibility as a new brand. Some tips to locate these manufacturers:
Check if they offer private labeling or customization. Private labeling means they can manufacture clothing with your own brand name and logo. Customization allows you to specify details like fabric, cut, and embellishments. Manufacturers that provide these services typically have lower minimums since they aim to serve startups and small businesses.
Do some digging on their website. Look for mentions of “low minimum order quantities” or “MOQs” and see if they specify an amount. Contact them directly if you can’t find this information. Some may have minimums as low as 50-200 pieces per style.
Ask about their production capabilities. Manufacturers with smaller factories and less automation are usually able to accommodate lower minimum orders. They rely more on human labor and are set up to handle smaller runs. Larger factories are more geared toward high-volume clients.
Consider manufacturers from developing countries. Places like China, Vietnam, and India are home to many manufacturers with low minimums, such as Appareify. Labor and production costs are lower, so they can profitably manufacture smaller orders. You may find minimums of 100-500 pieces per style.
Be flexible with styles and fabrics. The more complex the style and fabric, the higher the minimum order will likely be. Choose simple, versatile styles in standard fabrics like cotton t-shirts, sweatshirts, and canvas totes. These translate well for private label brands with low minimum orders.
With some searching, you can find clothing manufacturers that allow you to place small, customized orders to launch your brand. Check for private labeling, lower production capabilities, developing country locations, and simple styles – these are good signs that minimum order requirements will be flexible and within your budget.
Inquire About Their Minimum Order Policy
When searching for clothing manufacturers with low minimum order requirements, it’s important to inquire about their specific minimum order policy. Many manufacturers will list a minimum order quantity (MOQ) on their website, but this number can often be negotiated.
Ask About Their Typical MOQ
While a manufacturer may list an MOQ of 500-1000 units on their site, their typical minimum order amount may actually be lower. Speaking with a sales representative directly allows you to explain your situation and ask what their most common MOQ is for customers with smaller orders. They may be willing to work with you on a lower minimum, especially if you express interest in larger orders down the road as your business grows.
Discuss Your Needs and Budget
Be upfront with the manufacturer about your current needs and budget. Explain that you’re a new business and want to start with a smaller initial order to minimize upfront costs and risk. Many manufacturers will try to accommodate customers, especially those just starting out, by reducing their MOQ or offering a lower per-unit price for your first order. If cost is a concern, ask if they offer any discounts or promotions for new customers placing smaller orders.
Ask About Their Production Schedule
Some manufacturers may have extra capacity during slower periods of the year, allowing them to take on smaller orders without impacting their normal production schedule. Discuss their production calendar and timelines to determine if your initial order could fit into any gaps in their schedule. They may be willing to waive or reduce the MOQ for orders that can be produced during downtime.
Following up with manufacturers and having an open conversation about your needs can help you find ones willing to work with you on a lower minimum order. While their stated policies may suggest higher MOQs, many will negotiate to win your business, especially if you show potential for larger future orders as your company grows.
See if They Have a Diverse Range of Products
When searching for clothing manufacturers with low minimum order requirements, it’s important to consider the range of products they offer. The more diverse and versatile their selection, the more likely they are to accommodate small order sizes.
Apparel for All
Look for manufacturers that provide a variety of apparel types, including:
- T-shirts
- Tank tops
- Sweatshirts
- Jackets
- Pants
- Shorts
- Dresses
- Skirts
- Accessories like hats, scarves and bags
The wider the range, the better. Companies focused on a single product category, like just t-shirts or dresses, may have higher minimums to justify production costs. Those offering a diverse catalog have more flexibility to take on small orders. They can shift production to different items as needed to meet demand. Appareify is an example.
Sizing for Everyone
In addition to a range of products, choose manufacturers that provide an inclusive size range. Look for those offering sizes from small to 3XL or above in both men’s and women’s cuts. The more sizes available, the more likely they are to fill small orders.
Customization Options
Manufacturers that provide customization services like printing, embroidery, or heat transfer designs also tend to have lower minimums. They make up for smaller order sizes through add-on services with higher profit margins. Look for companies advertising “custom t-shirts,” “promotional products,” or “branded apparel.”
Private Label or White Label
Some manufacturers produce blank goods or provide private label services, manufacturing products with your own brand and logo. These companies typically don’t require large order sizes since you’re purchasing unlabeled or pre-labeled goods to resell under your own brand. Private or white label manufacturing is ideal for small clothing brands or those just starting out.
In summary, the more versatile and flexible a clothing manufacturer is, the more likely they are to accept lower minimum order quantities. Seeking out those with a range of products, inclusive sizing, customization options, and private label services will increase your chances of finding one that meets your needs.
Ask if They Charge Set-Up or Tooling Fees
When searching for clothing manufacturers with low minimum order requirements, asking about any set-up or tooling fees is an important question. These additional charges, if any, can impact the overall cost of a small order.
What Are Set-Up and Tooling Fees?
Set-up fees, also known as sample fees, cover the manufacturer’s costs to prepare for a new production run. This may include adjusting machinery, creating patterns, and producing samples.
Tooling fees refer to the cost of any customized equipment, like molds, dies, or silkscreens, required to manufacture the specific product. These tools are used over multiple production runs, so the initial fee is amortized over time. However, for small orders, these costs are more significant.
Why Do Some Manufacturers Charge These Fees?
For large production runs, set-up and tooling costs are minor when calculated per unit. However, for small minimum orders, especially under 500-1000 units, these fees can make up a substantial portion of the total cost.
Some manufacturers waive or reduce these fees to attract small customers, hoping to gain their long-term business as they grow. Other manufacturers specialize in small-batch production, so their processes are optimized for efficiency even at low volumes.
How Can You Avoid or Minimize These Fees?
There are a few strategies to reduce set-up and tooling fees:
- Ask if the fees can be waived or discounted for your initial order, especially if you convey the potential for larger future orders. Some manufacturers will view early small orders as a “trial run” and investment in a new customer.
- Choose a manufacturer that specializes in small minimum orders and may have lower fees. They understand the needs of small brands and have optimized their production accordingly.
- See if the manufacturer already has some of the tooling in place for a similar product. They may be willing to use existing tools, with minor modifications, for a lower fee.
- Provide very detailed specifications, patterns, and samples to minimize the work required by the manufacturer. The more you prepare in advance, the less time they need to spend on set-up.
- Ask if the tooling cost can be amortized over multiple orders. Some manufacturers will allow customers to pay a portion of the fees upfront and the remainder over subsequent production runs. This makes the initial cost more affordable.
With some research and negotiation, small brands can find clothing manufacturers that don’t break the bank with high set-up and tooling fees for minimum orders. Keeping costs low, especially when getting started, is key to building a successful apparel business.
