How to Find a Clothing Manufacturer for Your Fashion & Apparel Business

Choosing the right clothing manufacturer is the first step toward building a successful fashion brand. This relationship is important to every area of your business's operation, from the quality of your products to their pricing. With thousands of garment manufacturers across the world to choose from, you must get it right.

If you have a firm product idea and vision for your business, what's next? Use our step-by-step guide to take the next step.

Considerations Before Your Search for a Clothing Manufacturer

First of all, you should know the kind of partner your company requires before starting the search for the best clothing manufacturer. Many new business owners make the major error of thinking that one place will handle everything from design and materials purchasing to complete manufacturing. Most manufacturers focus on one step of the production process. For design, materials, and manufacturing, you will probably call for different partners.

A design partner helps translate your original concepts into patterns and technical drawings. Finding fabrics, decorations, and other supplies needed for your product can be helpfully assisted by a sourcing partner. Lastly, a manufacturing partner is responsible for actually making your clothing and converting it into finished products.

To achieve a successful manufacturer search, it is necessary to have the following basics in place:

• Clear product information and goals for your brand: Be confident as to what you're creating and how you will position and promote your brand's objective.
• An estimated budget: Understand how much you can spend to keep your project financially on track.  
• Specific services: Are you requiring a Full Production Package (FPP) or just Cut, Make, and Trim (CMT) services?  
• A timeline: Have a concept of when you would like to make something, and be flexible; this may need to align with your manufacturer's availability.
• Projected manufacturing volume: Understand the number of pieces you plan to make.
• A detailed tech pack: Should include product sketches or drawings, specifications, construction specifications, measurements, and a materials list.
• A sample or prototype: Have a sample or prototype ready to discuss production with your manufacturer.

How to Find a Clothing Manufacturer

After developing a good business plan and deciding what your brand needs, the next step is to start your search for a trusted clothes manufacturer. If you're entering the garment production arena, it's good to get acquainted with certain regularly used industry words to get you through it.

Best Resources for Finding the Perfect Manufacturer

When you're connected with the technical language and industry vocabulary, it's time to start investigating! The internet is an excellent place to begin, especially online directories. The large majority (if not all) mention thousands of manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors on their site! A good example is Maker's Row. They put together the full manufacturing process and connect brands with firms they trust.

Also, social media can be a significantly beneficial resource. You can identify manufacturers by searching hundreds of hashtags and keywords. In addition, you can also get a hint about what they are currently working on, their ideals, and what other customers think.

Explore Trade Shows

Finding a manufacturer also works well when you promote yourself at business events. This allows you the opportunity to meet factory personnel in person, create some trust, and improve the details of expectations. You can ask about development costs, minimum order quantities (MOQs), shipping, and payment methods. You may also give a reasonably comprehensive breakdown of your needs and see whether they would be suitable to work with your brand vision.

5 Things to Think About in Considering a Clothing Manufacturer  

If this is your first time contacting a factory, make sure to identify yourself and your business properly and professionally. Your introduction can be brief, name your brand, what type of product(s) you make, and what you are looking to have made. Ideally, when getting a quote, you will provide the factory a tech kit. If you do not have a tech pack yet, please offer a clear and specific description of the product you would like to manufacture.  

Before beginning with any manufacture, please consider these five important tips:

1. Conduct Extensive Research on Potential Manufacturers

Before you move forward with any manufacturer, take some time to discover all of the important facts - do not put your business at risk, so that you might run into complications later over a simple background check. When a supplier approaches you or reacts to your query, go further below their quick sales presentation and look to determine:

• Review their website carefully: Consider the information, how it's laid out, and if it appears professional.
• See if they produce similar products: This will help you see that they already have experience with your type of product.
• Watch for red flags in communication: If they use poor English or deliver vague responses, that can suggest a lack of professionalism.
• Verify their business address: For example, a manufacturer generating huge volumes is probably not going to be located in a one-room office or bedroom.
• Test their contact number: Call them to see if the number is live and validated.
• Check online for company reviews: Information from former clients will give you suggestions regarding trustworthiness and product quality.
• Check B2B platform membership: See if they are listed on trustworthy sites and examine how long they have been a member. Newer members do not equate to being untrustworthy, however, there needs to be a reasonable connection between their experience and business history.

Doing your work ahead will save you time, money, and possibly even headaches down the line.

2. Review Audit Reports and Certifications

Large retailers or even popular brands may often ask suppliers to go through onsite audits (not to be confused with certifications) to show that suppliers satisfy the supplier standards. Audits often analyze the qualifications and competency of the organization, and sometimes even the environment in which the personnel were performing, as it relates to what a buyer expects. 

When looking at possible manufacturers, always ask whether they have gone through an audit before, and ask if the documentation on past audits can be given. Most good suppliers are prepared to disclose documentation they acknowledge, provided they have not incorrectly represented or modified the information. However, if the audit was paid for by some other brand, the supplier may not be allowed to release it due to the confidentiality of the audit, so we recommend asking for it.

Keep this pair of items top of mind while determining what to do about audit reports:

• Not every supplier will have an audit report. Smaller manufacturers or those who have never worked with major purchasers may not have gone through the audit procedure yet. This is not usually a deal breaker.
• Check all the information in the report. Confirm that the name, address, phone number, and website given in the report all match your provider. Fake merchants can market someone else's report as their own.
• A changed industrial name is not always dark. Sometimes suppliers work through partner factories. If that is the case, seek a signed confirmation letter on official letterhead from the factory certifying their relationship with your supplier.
• Look out for inconsistencies. If something as simple as the address does not match, also check the date of the report. The supplier may have relocated. If anything seems confusing, it is fine to ask questions.

Certifications in the industry, in addition to audits, are another means to establish legitimacy and commitment to quality. Ask your provider about the following certifications:  

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
• WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production)
• OEKO-TEX (Textile safety and sustainability certification) 
• BCI (Better Cotton Initiative)

If they supply you with evidence of the certifications, you will want to verify any certifications with the granting body to make sure they are real.

3. Ask for Buyer References

It is usually a good idea to inquire about references from a supplier's former or present customers. These references will help you understand how the manufacturer performs regarding communication, product quality, on-time delivery, and dispute settlement.

That said, many providers may delay supplying references. They may be prohibited from doing so due to confidentiality agreements, or they may be afraid of the prospect of hearing bad feedback even if the clients were satisfied with the results. Even when orders are handled perfectly, things may go wrong, or some little issues may develop, and the suppliers know that a buyer may share that there were some concerns.

That being said, you should inquire whether the supplier can provide references, and don't let it raise a red flag if the supplier declines in a nice approach and claims confidentiality. If they do provide references, it is a strong indication they are acting professionally and transparently, and it helps you to help guarantee they are the real deal by getting a first-hand experience of their trustworthiness.

4. Set Clear and Secure Payment Terms

One of the best techniques for securing your business against suppliers not completing their duties or committing fraud is to create precise payment terms. Ideally, your agreement says that your provider will be paid only after they have completed their part of the agreement, not before the terms of the agreement have been satisfied.

One of the safest methods of carrying out transactions internationally is with a Letter of Credit (LC). This strategy works well because:

• The supplier does not get paid until they have complied with all the terms given out in the credit letter.
• International transaction fees are usually small or at least manageable.
• Letters of credit have other specified terms, such as delivery deadlines and occasionally even expiration dates.

However, not all manufacturers are going to want to accept LCs, and some of the reasons are as follows:

• They should achieve everything they have to complete before to payment.
• The processing and compliance duties may be less complex.
• There may probably worries around deadlines or unnecessary paperwork.

Regardless, such doubts can typically be solved through communication:

• If bank charges are an issue, offer to pay half the charges if you invoice the supplier.
• If deadlines are a problem, negotiate a convenient time window for delivery.

Be careful. A respectable provider may say no to an LC, but they will likely be open to alternative options. A scammer, however, will never agree to an LC. Usually, they will want full payment in advance, or a large deposit (50%, etc.) before starting work. Although they can look trustworthy, you should never agree to pay a supplier in this manner without sufficient safety measures.

Be sure to always use secure payment solutions, such as a Letter of Credit or an approved secure provider, if you feel uncertain or suspicious. Doing so offers you leverage and keeps both parties accountable.

5. Engage a third-party inspection service.

To further authenticate your supplier's legality and guarantee that you are making a sound business decision, you may want to employ an engaged third-party inspection service. You can arrange third-party inspection services with a well-known agency, such as Intertek or SGS, and utilize them to inspect your supplier's facility for a modest price.

Inspections are worth every penny, not just for certifying authenticity, but also for guaranteeing product quality and factory conformity. Below is a summary of what these services normally provide:

• Review of official documents: Inspectors will verify business licenses, local legal compliance, and any social or ethical compliance-based certificates the supplier may hold.
• On-site inspection: The agency will send a specialist to inspect the development or manufacturing line in person.
• Full reporting: You'll receive a detailed report with photographs of the inspection and any pertinent observations on the vendor's strengths and weaknesses.

Keep in mind, all reports are for informative purposes only. They do not issue a verdict or suggestion, you'll need to analyze the findings and make your decision based on the contents of the report.

While frauds sometimes happen within the sourcing scope, they are not prevalent. Usually, suppliers, especially manufacturers, are aiming to build honest, long-lasting partnerships with brands. Using inspection services is an obvious strategy to limit dangers, as well as to establish your possible partner's ethical and production standards.

Global Clothing Manufacturing Trends

The worldwide apparel market is once again on the rise following the serious events of COVID-19 in 2020. Demand for clothing and footwear continues to expand, whereas the global apparel market is predicted to reach roughly $2 trillion by 2026.

Two powerhouses lead the market: the United States and China. The United States and China are outliers when it comes to garment consumption and revenue generation. They play a big and important part in global trade. While China is the greatest garment exporter, the U.S. is second only to the European Union as the second largest apparel importer.

Key Changes in Industry

The industry is changing, and we can notice certain new trends in production to take care of consumer tastes and needs.

• Sustainable and ethical production: As environmental impact and climate change are increasingly part of consumers’ discourse, consumers are selecting brands that adopt greater environmental and ethical practices as well. This trend will help to improve the practices that manufacturers are following in terms of more sustainable and responsible practices, and lead to even more sustainability certifications.
• On-demand manufacturing: Reducing unnecessary output is crucial. Many firms are going towards an on-demand or small batch manufacturing approach that attempts to match supply to client demand, hence minimizing surplus even before the transaction.
• Technology integration: We may expect the continuous growth of automation, AI help for forecasting inventory, combined with 3D product sampling. These technologies can strengthen the manufacturing system and assist with speed, accuracy, and cost control.

Choosing Between Mass Market and Small Batch

Brands now need to make a strategic choice about producing in quantity vs generating smaller and more flexible batches. Small batch production may be ideally suited to the demands of start-ups, boutique brands, and sustainable firms that are exploring new concepts. Conversely, big-scale production is particularly suited to mass-market retailers who aim to push lower per-unit costs.

Each technique will have an impact on your sourcing strategy. Costs, production lead times, scalability, and quality control methods will help determine your choice of nation and/or partner for production.  

Clothing Manufacturing in the USA

Nowadays, it is not simple to get apparel with the label "Made in the USA". In the 1960s, roughly 95% of the clothing worn in the United States was created domestically. However, the convergence of trade agreements, recessions, and movements of factories seeking lower labor costs overseas resulted in a major fall in U.S. garment production. By the late 1990s, about 97% of apparel was created overseas as many corporations transferred operations overseas to benefit from cheaper production and more available labor.  

A Resurgence in American-Made Apparel

Recently, interest in products made in the USA has switched again, and this increased interest originates from a mix of trade deals becoming more advantageous, an ability to support local economies, and improvement in manufacturing in the U.S. Here are a few important points concerning this resurgence:

• There are about 100,000 textile factories in the USA that are creating a wide array of natural and synthetic materials.
• American-made materials, including cotton, wool, silk, and their own technically manufactured synthetic materials, are numerous. The availability of fabrics allows designers and distributors a multitude of possibilities to find that "perfect" cloth.
• Increasingly, new manufacturing enterprises are developing around the country. This matches an emerging post-pandemic economy.

The Challenges and Innovations in U.S. Manufacturing

Even with important expansion, apparel manufacturing in the USA is also experiencing the following challenges:  

• Shortage of qualified labor force: There has been a rise in workers who possess the technical skills needed for advanced industrial applications, and as technology, innovation, and automation gain the upper hand over the traditional worker, we must adapt to technology, whether equipment or processes. 
• Technology automation: The garment sector is reacting to this automation. For example, laser cutting is being applied to cut out fabric patterns, and robots may make/assemble garment elements, like sewing pockets. Although there is still a need for trained personnel to assemble the finished garment.  

The Future of American Apparel Manufacturing

While U.S. manufacturing continues to return (it has not regained its footing) and is exceeding several other complex nations, the most noticeable advantage of American-made garments is quality. Many consumers actively choose to spend their money on domestic items, even if this means the material is at a greater price because of consumer devotion to workmanship and desire to pay for ethical and local jobs.

Clothing Manufacturing in Asia

Asia has been acknowledged as the manufacturing center of the globe across all industries, with the textile and fashion sectors in particular. There are multiple countries producing apparel in Asia, mostly China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and India. Other prominent participants include Pakistan, Thailand, Turkey, and Hong Kong.  

Why Companies Prefer Asia for Apparel Manufacturing

• Low labor expenses and competitive pricing
• High development of infrastructure for mass production
• Strong textile roots, including excellent craftsmanship
• Growing investment in technology and automation
• Access to fibers and raw materials such as cotton, silk, and synthetic fibers.  

Let me introduce some of the biggest names in Asian apparel:

China

Previously well recognized for fast fashion and cheap clothing, China is turning towards high-end apparel because of its increasing labor costs.

• Why China stands out:
  
  • Large volume orders
  • Quick turnaround time 
  • Excellent and efficient connection with international firms

China is still a big supplier of commodities, notably in terms of mid to high-level fashion producers.

India

• India is the second-largest producer of cotton and silk in the world.
• Rich heritage in weaving, dyeing, and needlework.
• The fashion market is developing at an annual growth rate of 20.8%, and is predicted to reach more than €24 billion by 2023.
• India is becoming a major destination for fashion design and bespoke manufacture.

Vietnam

• With major foreign investment and technology advances, Vietnam is among the top garment producers in the world.
• Employs upward of 2 million workers in the textile and apparel sectors
• Offers low-cost production in a combination of modern facilities
• Known for creating things efficiently and sticking to quality standards.

Bangladesh

• One of the biggest producers of ready-made garments (RMG) in the world.
• Widely chosen by worldwide fashion brands for its low production costs and great quantity.
• While not included in the original, Bangladesh must be highlighted because it adds significantly to quick fashion and mass apparel manufacture.

Pakistan

• It provides relatively low-cost production, often 20 – 25% lower than several big Asian producers.
• Noted for having the world's second-best cotton for a reasonable price.
• Textiles make up 57% of the country's exports.
• With Pakistan’s experienced people and quality textiles, it is a growing garment sourcing destination.

Turkey

• Ranked as the 5th largest garment and textile producer in the world
• Contributing 10% of GDP and employing 20% of the entire workforce.
• Combining handmade expertise with contemporary production processes. 
• Great fabric dyeing, fabric procurement, and value-added garments.
• The Factory Location is perfect for speedy shipment to Europe and the Middle East.

Thailand

• Provides value-added services such as custom design, small manufacturing, and finishing.
• The main garment manufacturers are situated in Bangkok, which is favorable for exports, logistics, and production.
• Specifically for firms with unique or specific manufacturing demands, not bulk fast fashion.

Hong Kong

• Serves as both a production center and a worldwide garment sourcing base.
• Known for exceptional professionalism and full-service capabilities.
• Including, but not limited to: Fabric selection, design, quality control, legality, and overseas shipment.
• Hong Kong manufacturers serve luxury brands wishing to use a one-stop shop.

Asia continues to remain the hub of clothing manufacturer on the globe, with choices ranging from mass production to craftsmen products. While China is focusing on creating superior luxury products while Vietnam and Pakistan are strengthening their talent pool and competitive price, Asia continues to grow and thrive as a manufacturing sector.

Whether you are sourcing goods for luxury fashion or low-cost necessities, Asia offers solutions that are flexible, scalable, and prepared to interact with your vision, throughout the range of fashion enterprises and product levels.  

Clothing Manufacturing in Central and South America

As fashion businesses attempt to respond to the need for shorter production cycles and more efficient supply chains, they are beginning to examine Central and South America. These regions have the benefits of geography and also offer multiple trade advantages that can assist in decreasing costs and enhancing delivery.  

Growing Interest in Central America

One of the reasons Central America is becoming interesting is the necessity for shorter lead times. With the quick evolution of fashion trends, corporations seek to keep existing collections fresh and replenish them, as needed. Central America is positioned for it.

• Guatemala is particularly gaining traction. Guatemala likely does not have the lowest labor expenses, but Guatemala is a member of the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement, or CAFTA-DR. 
  
• CAFTA-DR covers the United States and 6 Central American countries that offer duty-free exporting to the United States if the materials and production are from the Central American region. 
  
  • This can help brands save up to, if not more than, 32% in tariffs. What a terrific reason to source from that region of the world!
    

The member countries of CAFTA-DR include:

• Costa Rica
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Nicaragua

These countries are competing among themselves for a greater market share in the U.S. fashion market, along with competing against low-cost areas such as Haiti and parts of Asia.

South America's Rising Textile Markets

South America is rising as a big contributor in the global apparel manufacturing sector, thanks to its plentiful natural resources, talented workforce, and unequaled raw materials.

Peru

• The largest clothing manufacturer in South America
• Well-known for high-quality alpaca fiber and Tangüis cotton, both fibers are regarded as soft and durable. 
• Peru offers value-added fashion manufacturing, beyond basic clothes production.

Brazil

• As a major BRIC economy, Brazil is uniquely poised for future growth in its natural and synthetic textile production.
• Brazil has a strong domestic demand, which supports a healthy domestic textile sector. 
• Investment continues to expand in new machinery and sustainable techniques.  

Colombia

• Expectations anticipate substantial development in the textile and fashion industries.
• Emerging focus on exports and worldwide collaborations.
• Government incentives and safety have created an atmosphere for growing international investments.

Market Outlook

• The Latin American textile market is expected to increase at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2020 to 2026.
• Latin America presents a solid preference for Asian production based on competitive production prices, different raw resources, and access to multiple free trade agreements.
• With the primary focus on outsourcing (moving production closer to the U.S.), Latin America is positioned to emerge as a top production destination for your quick fashion or premium clothes.  

Overview: Why Central/South America for a Clothing Manufacturer?

• Faster turnaround times to the U.S. owing to proximity
• Duty-free access to U.S. markets due to free trade agreements such as CAFTA-DR
• Specially produced raw materials such as Alpaca wool and excellent cotton
• Skilled resources and increased investment in manufacturing capabilities
• Diversity in Markets, such as small batch and huge run countries

Final Thoughts

Building a strong fashion brand depends on finding the right Clothing Manufacturer since it influences the quality of your product, expenses, and general company operations. Evaluating and verifying the correct processes for your brand is important, whether your production is in the USA locally, you are seeking affordable alternatives in Asia, or you want quick turnaround partners in Central/South America. To confirm vendor confidence, investigate credentials for certifications, verify past audit reports, and obtain conditions for payment should you identify a manufacturer you want to go after.

With trends like sustainability and on-demand manufacturing, which let companies have more freedom in sourcing, the global clothing business is growing more dynamic and changing. Finding the correct Clothing Manufacturer will enable you to ethically create and serve your target market, therefore realizing your vision. Decide effectively how future-proof your clothes label should be!