Starting a clothing line or launching a new collection is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right manufacturing partner.
Over the past 17 years, we've helped hundreds of fashion brands, startups, and cross-border sellers go from idea to finished product. Along the way, we've noticed that the most successful clients are the ones who ask the right questions early.
In this post, we answer the 10 most common questions we receive about working with a custom apparel manufacturer. Whether you're launching your first collection or looking to switch factories, this guide will help you start your project with confidence.
1. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
MOQ is one of the first questions every buyer asks—and for good reason.
At Maodi Apparel, we understand that startup brands and emerging labels can't commit to large production runs right away. That's why we offer flexible MOQs, allowing you to test new styles and colors with smaller trial orders before scaling up. As your brand grows, our production capacity easily supports larger bulk orders.
Tip: Always confirm whether the MOQ is per style, per color, or per size before you place an order.
2. How much does sampling cost, and how long does it take?
Sampling is the most important step before mass production. It allows you to verify fit, fabric, printing quality, and construction.
Typically, a pre-production sample takes 3–5 working days, depending on the complexity of the design. Sample costs vary based on style and customization level, but once you place a bulk order, many factories—including ours—can deduct the sample fee from your final invoice.
Tip: Always approve a physical sample before bulk production. This is the best way to avoid costly mistakes later.
3. Can you work with my design, or do you only offer ready-made styles?
We support both models:
- OEM: You provide your own designs, tech packs, or reference samples, and we manufacture exactly to your specifications.
- ODM: If you don't have a design team, you can choose from our library of over 3,000 ready-to-adopt women's styles, then customize colors, fabrics, labels, and packaging.
You don't need to be a designer to work with us. Even a rough sketch or a reference photo is enough to get started.
4. What customization options are available?
Almost everything about your garment can be customized:
- Fabric type and color
- Printing techniques (screen printing, heat transfer, metallic print, puff print)
- Embroidery
- Custom labels, tags, and hangtags
- Custom packaging
- Logo placement
This means you can truly build a product that matches your brand identity.
5. How long is the production lead time?
Production lead time depends on order quantity and complexity. For most standard orders, bulk production takes around 15–45 working days after sample approval.
If you have a launch date or seasonal deadline, let us know early. We can help you plan the timeline to ensure your order arrives on time—including sampling, production, and shipping.
6. How do you handle quality control?
Quality is not a one-time check—it's a process.
At Maodi Apparel, we follow an 8-step quality control system: fabric inspection, fabric laying, cutting, sewing, ironing, mid-production inspection, final inspection, and packaging. Our factory is certified to BSCI, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, and Intertek standards, so you can be confident your order meets international quality requirements.
We also welcome third-party inspections before shipment.
7. What shipping methods do you support?
We work with all major shipping methods, depending on your timeline and budget:
- Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS): 3–7 days, best for small urgent orders
- Air freight: 7–15 days
- Sea freight: 30–45 days, most cost-effective for large bulk orders
If you're using a freight forwarder or shipping agent, we're happy to ship to your designated warehouse.
8. What are your payment terms?
For most new orders, our standard terms are a deposit before production and the balance before shipment. We accept T/T (bank transfer), and we're flexible for long-term partners.
Tip: Never pay 100% upfront. A reputable factory will typically ask for a deposit and final payment after production is complete and inspected.
9. Can I make changes after sampling?
Yes—this is exactly what sampling is for.
When you receive your pre-production sample, you can request adjustments to fit, length, fabric, printing position, or any other detail. We'll revise the sample until you're satisfied. Once the final sample is approved, it becomes the production standard for your bulk order.
Tip: Write down all your revision requests clearly. This helps avoid miscommunication and ensures the final sample matches your expectations.
10. What should I prepare before contacting a manufacturer?
You don't need everything ready to start. But the more information you can provide, the faster we can give you an accurate quote:
- Style reference (photo, sketch, or link)
- Fabric preference (if you have one)
- Quantity per style and color
- Size range
- Customization details (labels, printing, packaging)
- Target delivery date
If you're missing any of these, don't worry—we'll guide you through each step.
Ready to Start Your Project?
The right manufacturing partner doesn't just produce your clothes—they help you avoid mistakes, save time, and grow your brand with confidence.
At Maodi Apparel, we've been helping women's fashion brands launch and scale for 17 years. Whether you need a small trial order or a large seasonal collection, we're here to support you.
Contact us get a custom quote for your next collection.
