To get an accurate custom clothing quote, send the same written specification to each manufacturer: design, fabric, measurements, quantities by style and color, decoration, packaging and destination. Ask suppliers to state their assumptions, included costs and delivery terms. A unit price without those details is not a like-for-like comparison.
This guide is for fashion brands preparing inquiries for custom dresses, T-shirts and hoodies. Use the template below to turn a reference image into a more useful production discussion.
Why a photograph alone is not enough
A reference photograph may show the silhouette but rarely specifies fabric composition, weight, lining, construction or sizing. Different interpretations can produce different quotes. Identify the features you want and ask the supplier which decisions remain open.
A technical pack brings drawings, measurements, construction and material details together. If you do not have one, request clarification on development services and costs rather than assuming those services are included.
The information a manufacturer needs
| Detail | What to provide | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Drawings, references and construction details | Defines what is being priced |
| Fabric | Composition, weight, finish or reference sample | Identifies material assumptions |
| Fit and sizes | Measurements and size breakdown | Defines pattern and grading requirements |
| Order quantity | Pieces for each design and color | Allows MOQ and pricing checks |
| Decoration | Artwork, dimensions and placement | Clarifies method and setup needs |
| Labels and packaging | Requested branding and packing details | Prevents missing cost items |
| Delivery | Destination and target arrival date | Supports schedule and freight discussion |
Separate development costs from production costs
Ask whether sample development, pattern making, revisions, artwork setup and material sourcing are charged separately. Confirm any sample credit or refund conditions in writing; do not assume samples are free.
Request garment pricing for the exact quantities you intend to buy. If you are comparing different order sizes, request a separate quote for each scenario. Avoid multiplying a large-order unit price by a smaller order quantity.
Confirm the MOQ for every design and color
YIMAN’s MOQ is 50 pieces per design, per color, with mixed sizes allowed. A single dress design in two colors requires at least 100 pieces. Custom fabrics, trims or decoration may introduce additional constraints, which should be confirmed for the project.
Show the quantities as a matrix of design, color and size. This helps suppliers identify missing details before giving a final quote.
Compare complete quotations
- Are the fabric and construction assumptions identical?
- Does pricing include logos, labels and packaging?
- Which development or inspection costs are separate?
- What currency, validity period and payment milestones apply?
- What delivery terms apply, and who handles shipping and destination costs?
- What is the procedure if samples or finished garments do not meet agreed requirements?
Use a comparison sheet with a separate column for exclusions. A lower quoted price may represent a different garment or fewer included services. Ask for revisions until the offers describe comparable work.
Distinguish production time from delivery time
Sample development and bulk production schedules are confirmed for each project after reviewing the design, materials, quantities and revisions. Agree whether the schedule uses working or calendar days and what starts each period. Confirm inspections and shipping time separately before committing to a delivery date.
If you are planning a capsule collection or limited clothing drop, share the launch date and ask whether the full schedule is feasible. A production estimate is not a guaranteed arrival date.
Copy-and-send clothing quotation request
Hello, we would like a quotation for our brand’s custom clothing project.
Product category: [dress / T-shirt / hoodie]
Design references or technical pack: [attached]
Fabric requirements: [composition, weight, finish or undecided details]
Designs and colors: [list]
Quantity per design and color: [list]
Sizes and quantity breakdown: [list]
Logo or decoration: [artwork, dimensions and placement]
Labels and packaging: [requirements]
Destination and target arrival date: [details]Please confirm the MOQ, sample and development costs, garment unit price, included services, exclusions, payment terms and delivery terms. Please identify any assumptions and explain the sampling, approval and quality-check process. Confirm the basis of the production timeline and quote shipping separately if needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request an estimate before choosing fabric?
Yes, but ask the supplier to specify the assumed material and whether the price is provisional. Final materials and specifications may change the quotation.
Should I choose the lowest quote?
Evaluate sample quality, the complete scope, communication and written order terms alongside price. A lower price alone does not establish suitability.
Does a quote guarantee product quality?
No. Approve a reference sample, final specifications and quality requirements before bulk production, and agree how the order will be checked.
Request a project-specific quote from YIMAN
YIMAN is a clothing factory in Guangzhou, China, established in 2011. We provide OEM and ODM services, focusing on dresses, T-shirts and hoodies for men’s and women’s collections. Send your project details through our contact page or WhatsApp.
For product planning, see our dress manufacturing guide, hoodie manufacturing guide and factory evaluation checklist.
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