How To Find Clothing Vendor

Start by defining exactly what you need

Product details: style sketches or tech pack, fabric composition and weight, trims, size chart, construction specs, wash/print/embellishment requirements.

Commercial targets: target unit cost, target retail price, MOQ you can accept, desired lead time, target market (EU/US/Asia), shipping/Incoterm preference.

Quality & compliance: required certifications (OEKO-TEX, GOTS, BSCI, Sedex), labeling & testing needs.

Where to search (channels)

B2B marketplaces: Alibaba.com, GlobalSources, Made-in-China, 1688 (China domestic).

Specialized sourcing platforms: Sewport, Maker’s Row, ThomasNet (US/Europe), Kompass.

Trade shows: MAGIC (USA), Canton Fair (China), CHIC (China), Première Vision (fabrics), local garment exhibitions.

Sourcing hubs/countries: China (wide range), Vietnam/Bangladesh/India (cost-effective CMT), Turkey/Portugal (near-shore for Europe, faster turnaround), USA (small-batch/contract manufacturers).

Social & networks: LinkedIn, Instagram (design studios), industry groups, referrals from other brands.

Sourcing agents / third-party procurement firms: useful for language/inspection/logistics help.

Screening & shortlist

Use the same tech pack to request quotes from multiple vendors. Compare price breaks, MOQ, lead times, included services (CMT, full-package), and sample costs.

Ask for references and photos of similar products. Request factory/business license and export experience if you export.

Key evaluation criteria

Capabilities: Can they do the fabric, print, wash, or special finishes you require?

Capacity & lead time: Monthly output, peak-season capacity, realistic production lead time.

Quality control: In-line QC, final inspection, acceptance of third-party inspections (SGS/Intertek), AQL standard.

MOQ & flexibility: Will they accept small initial runs or lots?

Communication & responsiveness: Dedicated contact, responsiveness, language fit.

Compliance & certifications: Social/eco certifications if needed.

IP protection: Will they sign NDAs and return/destroy your tech packs/samples on request?

Sample & trial order

Pay for a pre-production sample and evaluate fit, materials, and workmanship. Use it as the master sample.

Place a small trial production order (pilot run) before scaling. Inspect 100% or via third-party before shipment.

Contracts & payment

Put product specs, sample approval, delivery dates, penalties for late delivery, defect acceptance criteria, packaging, and IP clauses in writing.

Typical payment terms: Deposit (30%) + balance before shipment; L/C for larger, established orders; or escrow for first deals. Avoid 100% upfront unless you trust them.

Quality control & inspections

Set clear QC checklists from the start (stitching, seam allowance, measurements, colorfastness, shrinkage).

Use in-line checks during production and final random inspection (AQL 2.5/4.0 depending). Hire third-party inspection if you’re remote.

Red flags to watch for

Very low price with vague specs, requests for full payment upfront, refusal to sign contracts or NDA, no factory photos or verifiable references, inconsistent communication, inability to produce a proper sample.

Practical tools & templates (quick start)

Ask for: company name, years in business, main customers/export countries, monthly capacity, MOQ, lead times, sample time & cost, price tiers, certifications, photos of factory & sample, payment terms, willingness to sign NDA.

Keep a tech pack checklist: flat sketches, measurements/specs, fabric swatches, trim references, construction notes, PLM/color codes, label & packaging requirements.

If you want, tell me: product type (e.g., T-shirt, jacket, denim), estimated first-order quantity, target price per unit, and target market. I can then recommend specific countries, typical MOQs, and a tailored shortlist strategy or even write an RFQ email template for you.