Placing your first bulk order with an overseas clothing manufacturer is a high-stakes decision. Asking the right questions upfront can save you months of frustration and thousands of dollars. Here are the ten questions that matter most.
1. What is your minimum order quantity per style? MOQs vary widely by product category — knowing this early prevents wasted time on suppliers who can't accommodate your volume.
2. Can you provide proof of your certifications? Ask for current certificates (GOTS, OEKO-TEX, ISO 9001, SEDEX) rather than taking claims at face value.
3. What is your standard sample process and cost? Understand how many rounds of revisions are included before extra charges apply.
4. What is your typical lead time from approved sample to delivery? Get a realistic range, not just a best-case number.
5. What quality control stages do you perform? Ask specifically about in-line inspections and pre-shipment AQL standards.
6. Can you share references or past client examples? A reputable supplier should be able to point to verifiable production history.
7. What are your payment terms? Standard practice is typically a percentage upfront with the balance before shipment — be cautious of suppliers demanding 100% upfront.
8. What shipping terms do you offer — FOB, CIF, DDP? This determines who handles freight, insurance, and customs.
9. How do you handle defects or quality disputes? Understand their replacement or refund policy before you need it.
10. Who is my single point of contact throughout production? Clarity here prevents communication breakdowns during the most critical stages.
Why This List Matters More With Overseas Suppliers
Time zone differences, language nuances, and the inability to visit a factory in person all raise the stakes of due diligence. This is exactly the friction a sourcing partner is designed to remove.
OSD Apparels answers all ten of these questions upfront — for every one of our 50+ vetted supplier partners. Get your supplier shortlist today.