Starting a clothing brand?
Short, practical answers to the questions that come up again and again when you're starting or building a clothing brand.
What is MOQ?
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) is the smallest number of units a manufacturer will produce per order or per style. It varies hugely — from as low as 25-50 pieces at small workshops to several hundred or thousand at larger factories. A lower MOQ usually means a higher price per piece.
How samples work
Before a full production run, a manufacturer makes one or a few sample garments so you can check fit, fabric and finishing. Samples typically cost more per piece than production and take a few weeks. Always approve a sample before committing to a full order.
What to ask a manufacturer
MOQ per style and per color, sample cost and lead time, production lead time, payment terms and deposit, what fabrics and techniques they specialise in, whether they can supply reference photos of past work, and their location and shipping options.
Manufacturer red flags
No physical address or verifiable business details, refusal to provide samples, asking for full payment upfront with no deposit structure, prices that seem far below market rate, and pressure to commit quickly without a written agreement.
What is a tech pack?
A tech pack is a detailed document a designer or brand prepares for a manufacturer: measurements, construction details, materials, colours, and any print or embroidery placement. A clear tech pack reduces sampling errors and back-and-forth.
Portugal vs Turkey vs Pakistan
Portugal: strong quality reputation, closer to the EU, generally higher MOQ and price. Turkey: fast turnaround, wide range of capabilities, competitive pricing. Pakistan: often lower MOQ and pricing, especially for basics, longer shipping to the EU. The right choice depends on your product, budget, MOQ needs and timeline — this is exactly the kind of decision a personal call can help with.
How much does a first collection cost?
It depends heavily on quantity, fabric, techniques and manufacturer location — there is no single number. Sampling, MOQ-based production, packaging and shipping all add up. A personal call is a good way to get a realistic estimate for your specific idea.
Still have questions?
These guides are a starting point, not a substitute for your specific situation. Book a personal call and we'll talk through what applies to your brand.