Finding the right manufacturing partner is the first major milestone in launching a clothing brand. If you’re sourcing from China, you’ll want a factory that not only delivers quality but also understands your niche, pricing strategy, and communication style.
To find a clothing manufacturer in China, research through B2B platforms, attend trade shows, seek referrals, audit their facilities, and test with small production runs.
We at Xzapparel have worked with global brands across North America, Australia, and Europe—here’s our practical guide.
What are the best ways to find Chinese manufacturers?
There are several reliable channels to start with.
B2B marketplaces, sourcing agents, trade fairs, and industry referrals are top methods to locate vetted factories in China.
Top Methods
- Alibaba or Made-in-China: Largest directories with factory listings
- Global trade shows: MAGIC, Canton Fair, Intertextile Shanghai
- Sourcing agencies: Act as intermediaries for quality control
- Referrals: Ask in industry communities or LinkedIn groups
Always validate claims with online reviews, sample quality, and production timelines.
What should I check before contacting a factory?
Pre-checks save time and protect your IP.
Before sending inquiries, assess a manufacturer’s experience, capacity, product categories, and export markets.
Research Checklist
- Years in operation
- Certifications (BSCI, WRAP, ISO)
- Niche garment experience (e.g., dresses, knitwear)
- Export history to your country
We often get clients who say they chose us after vetting 3–5 similar suppliers.
What questions should I ask a potential Chinese manufacturer?
Be direct but detailed.
Key questions include MOQs, sample costs, lead times, payment terms, customization options, and communication channels.
Essential Questions
- What is your MOQ per style?
- How long for first samples and bulk?
- Can I visit your factory or audit remotely?
- What languages do your account managers speak?
Asking the right questions early prevents delays later.
Should I work with a sourcing agent in China?
It depends on your team’s experience.
Sourcing agents offer convenience but add a middle layer. If you prefer direct control and better margins, go factory-direct.
Pros of Agents
- Handle sample follow-up and QC
- Translate and manage updates
- Good for first-time importers
Cons of Agents
- Extra cost (10–30% margin)
- Less transparency
- Communication bottlenecks
We work both directly and with agents, depending on buyer preference.
How do I verify a Chinese factory’s legitimacy?
Due diligence is key.
Check business licenses, client references, and certification status. Arrange video calls or audits if travel isn’t possible.
Verification Tips
- Ask for factory registration number
- Search government or B2B records
- Request videos or photos of the floor
- Use Alibaba Verified Supplier filters
At Xzapparel, we offer live Zoom walkthroughs for transparency.
What’s the typical manufacturing process?
Factories follow a linear timeline.
The process involves quoting, sampling, production, QC, and shipping—and requires close coordination throughout.
Standard Steps
- Tech pack review and quotation
- Sample development
- Sample approval and order confirmation
- Bulk production (3–8 weeks)
- Quality control
- Packing and shipping
We provide real-time order tracking and weekly photo updates during production.
What are average lead times for clothing production in China?
It varies by season and complexity.
Lead time for samples is 7–15 days. Bulk production is typically 30–45 days depending on style and quantity.
Time Estimates
- Simple tee or tank: 20–30 days
- Dresses with custom prints: 35–50 days
- Sweaters or knits: 45–60 days
Plan ahead—Chinese New Year and Golden Week slow down every factory.
How do I manage quality control remotely?
Documentation and updates matter.
Use inspection reports, third-party services, or video calls to confirm quality before shipping.
QC Tools
- AQL inspection checklist
- In-line and final-stage inspection photos
- Client-approved pre-production sample (PPS)
We send bulk QC images for every production run and offer both in-house and SGS-supported QC.
What are typical payment terms with Chinese factories?
There’s an industry standard.
Most manufacturers require 30% deposit to start, with 70% balance before shipment.
Payment Notes
- TT (bank transfer) is most common
- PayPal is used for small runs or samples
- Alibaba Trade Assurance protects first-time buyers
We issue invoices with detailed breakdowns to help client accounting.
Conclusion
Finding a clothing manufacturer in China takes time—but by asking the right questions, reviewing production history, and building strong communication, you can unlock a reliable long-term partnership. At Xzapparel, we simplify the entire process.
Looking for a trusted clothing manufacturer in China? Let’s start your production journey today.
