Apparel Sourcing Center
Switch suppliers with less risk. Improve quality. Protect your delivery dates.
Quick Actions
Start Here: 6 Resource Hubs for Better Apparel Manufacturing
1, Switch Supplier Hub
If you’re thinking about changing factories, this hub helps you do it safely.
- Common signs it’s time to switch
- How to compare factories with a scorecard
- A low-risk transition plan (trial order → scale up)
Best next step: Ask for a “first order” plan that reduces risk.
2, Quality & QC Hub
If you’re dealing with returns, rework, or “bulk is different from sample,” start here.
- AQL inspection explained in plain English
- Inline QC vs final QC (what actually prevents defects)
- The most common defects in polos, T-shirts, hoodies, and shorts—and how to stop them
Best next step: Request a real QC report example and a PPS checklist.
3, Sampling & Product Development Hub
If sampling takes too long or the fit is never right, this hub helps you move faster.
- How to write a tech pack factories follow
- Sample types: proto, fit, size set, PPS
- A clear approval process that reduces revisions
Best next step: Use the tech pack template and a sample timeline plan.
4, Lead Time & Delivery Hub
If your supplier misses deadlines, this hub helps you protect your calendar.
- Production timeline (week-by-week)
- The real reasons factories ship late
- What updates you should receive each week
- Shipping options and Incoterms (EXW, FOB, DDP)
Best next step: Build a delivery plan with buffers and checkpoints.
5, Compliance & Sustainability Hub
If you sell into strict markets or work with retailers, this hub helps reduce risk.
- Materials and labeling basics
- What documents and test reports to request
- Sustainability claims that can be verified (and what to avoid)
Best next step: Get the compliance document checklist.
6, Proof & Why Ninghow Hub
If you want to see how Ninghow supports mature brands, start here.
- Our QC workflow and checkpoints
- Communication SOP (clear steps, fewer misunderstandings)
- Sampling and production timelines
- Case-style breakdowns: problem → fix → results
Best next step: Request samples or a low-risk trial order.
Most-Requested Tools & Templates (Free)
Supplier Evaluation Scorecard
rate factories on quality stability, lead time, QC transparency, and communication
Apparel RFQ Template
what to ask for, what to send, and how to compare quotes
PPS Approval Checklist
checks that prevent “bulk surprises”
Production Timeline Planner
map sampling, production, and shipping with safe buffers
If You’re Replacing a Factory: A Safe First Order Plan
Start with a trial order
One style, limited colors, clear size breakdown. Learn fast with low risk.
Lock the important specs early
Measurement tolerances, fabric tests, decoration standards, and packaging rules.
Require production visibility
Weekly progress updates plus inline QC checkpoints—not just a final inspection.
Scale only after the trial hits targets
Quality, on-time delivery, and smooth communication should pass before you increase volume.
Buyer FAQ (Simple Answers)
What do you need to quote accurately?
How do we prevent “bulk is different from sample”?
Can you support a low-risk MOQ for the first order?
How do you handle lead time and tracking?
Start Your Next Order With a Manufacturer Process (Not Guesswork)
Actions:
- Request a Trial Order Plan (lowest-risk first PO structure)
- Send Your Tech Pack for a Quick Review (we reply with missing info + next steps)
- Ask for QC Report Examples (see what you’ll receive during production)
