Introduction: A Smooth Process Starts with Smart Preparation
Ordering custom apparel from an overseas manufacturer is a fantastic way to get high-quality products at a competitive price. However, for those new to the process, it can seem daunting. The good news is that a smooth, successful partnership is easy to achieve. It all starts with being aware of a few common pitfalls. This guide will walk you through six frequent mistakes and show you how to easily avoid them, ensuring your project is a success from start to finish.
Mistake #1: Providing Vague or Incomplete Specifications
The Problem: You have a great design in your head, but you provide the manufacturer with unclear instructions. This leads to incorrect samples, production delays, and frustrating back-and-forth communication.
The Solution: The best way to avoid this is with a detailed Tech Pack. As we covered in our step-by-step guide on how to order in bulk, a Tech Pack is the blueprint for your product.
Mistake #2: Skipping the Pre-Production Sample Stage
The Problem: To save time or money, a client decides to skip the sampling stage. When the final shipment arrives, the fit isn’t right or the fabric doesn’t feel the way they imagined, leaving them with unsellable inventory.
The Solution: Always invest in a pre-production sample. This is your ultimate quality guarantee. It’s your only chance to physically see, feel, and test your product before it’s mass-produced.
Mistake #3: Misunderstanding Payment Terms and Incoterms
The Problem: A client agrees to a price quoted as “FOB Sialkot” without fully understanding what it means and is surprised they have to pay for international shipping.
The Solution: Clarify payment and shipping terms from the beginning. A common structure is a 50% advance payment. Also, understand basic Incoterms (shipping terms), which are officially defined by the International Chamber of Commerce. For example, FOB (Free On Board) means the price includes getting the goods to the port in our country, but you handle the main shipping.
Mistake #4: Ignoring the Total ‘Landed Cost’
The Problem: A client is thrilled with a low per-unit price but fails to budget for shipping costs, import duties, customs fees, and local taxes. When the goods arrive, the final cost is much higher than anticipated.
The Solution: Understand your “landed cost.” Ask your manufacturer for an estimated shipping weight and volume, as well as the correct HS Code (a customs classification code you can learn about from the World Customs Organization) for your product.
Mistake #5: Poor or Infrequent Communication
The Problem: Weeks go by without an update. The client gets nervous, and due to time zone differences, communication is slow. Small questions go unanswered, which can lead to larger production errors.
The Solution: Partner with a manufacturer who prioritizes clear, consistent communication and has a dedicated English-speaking contact person who provides regular updates.
Mistake #6: Neglecting Final Quality Control
The Problem: The client assumes that since the sample was perfect, every piece in the bulk order will be too. The shipment arrives, and some units have minor defects.
The Solution: Work with a factory that has a robust Quality Assurance (QA) process. A good manufacturer inspects products at every stage of production and performs a final inspection before the goods are packed.
Conclusion: Choose a Partner, Not Just a Producer
Avoiding these common mistakes ultimately comes down to one thing: choosing the right partner. An experienced, transparent, and communicative manufacturer will guide you through this entire process.
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Contact SIMARA ENTERPRISES to discuss your project with our expert team.