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How to find a supplier for my clothing brand

Finding the right supplier is a critical step in building a successful clothing brand. The right supplier can ensure consistent quality, timely production, and a smooth supply chain, setting your brand apart from competitors.

To find a supplier for your clothing1 brand, research online directories, attend trade shows, or work with sourcing agents. Building strong relationships with suppliers ensures long-term success.

Let’s explore how to set up a new supplier, avoid scams, and hire reliable vendors for your business.

How do I set up a new supplier?

Setting up a new supplier2 involves researching potential partners, assessing their capabilities, and establishing clear communication about expectations and requirements.

To set up a new supplier, vet their credentials, negotiate terms, and establish a written agreement detailing pricing, production timelines, and quality standards.

A laptop displaying fabric designs surrounded by colorful fabric swatches in natural sunlight. Textile Selection and Design

Steps to set up a new supplier

  1. Identify Needs: Define your product specifications, MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities), and budget.
  2. Research Suppliers: Use platforms like Alibaba, Global Sources, or attend trade fairs to find potential partners.
  3. Request Samples: Assess quality by ordering product samples.
  4. Negotiate Terms: Discuss pricing, payment terms, and delivery timelines.
  5. Sign a Contract: Outline roles, responsibilities, and penalties for non-compliance.

For example, if sourcing t-shirts, ask for fabric details, stitching quality, and the supplier’s production capacity before committing.

How to get a supplier for your business?

Getting a supplier for your business requires leveraging multiple resources, from online directories to networking events. Clarity about your needs will help you narrow down the right fit.

To get a supplier for your business, explore online platforms, join industry networks, or hire sourcing agents to connect with reliable manufacturers3.

Where to find suppliers

  1. Online Platforms: Alibaba, Made-in-China, and ThomasNet offer extensive supplier directories.
  2. Trade Shows: Events like the Canton Fair or MAGIC Las Vegas are excellent for meeting suppliers in person.
  3. Industry Groups: Join LinkedIn groups or Facebook communities focused on apparel manufacturing.
  4. Local Markets: Visit textile hubs in regions like Guangzhou (China) or Tirupur (India) for on-ground connections.

For instance, sourcing agents in Vietnam or Bangladesh can help locate suppliers specializing in cost-effective, small-batch production.

How do I hire a vendor?

Hiring a vendor involves evaluating their ability to meet your business needs, from product quality to delivery reliability. It’s crucial to conduct due diligence before finalizing a partnership.

To hire a vendor4, assess their reputation, request references, and ensure they align with your brand’s goals and requirements.

Steps to hire a vendor

  1. Evaluate Capabilities: Confirm the vendor’s ability to meet your production, quality, and volume needs.
  2. Request References: Speak with other clients to gauge reliability and past performance.
  3. Negotiate Contracts: Define terms for pricing, lead times, and quality control in a written agreement.
  4. Monitor Performance: Set up regular check-ins and quality assessments during production.

For example, if you’re hiring a vendor for activewear, confirm their experience with stretch fabrics and technical stitching.

What is a vendor scammer?

A vendor scammer poses as a legitimate supplier or manufacturer but delivers subpar goods, fails to meet agreed-upon terms, or disappears after receiving payment.

A vendor scammer5 is a fraudulent supplier who exploits businesses by delivering poor-quality products or failing to fulfill orders.

Red flags for spotting vendor scammers

  • Unrealistically Low Prices: If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  • No Track Record: Lack of reviews, references, or verifiable history.
  • Incomplete Contracts: Reluctance to provide written agreements with clear terms.
  • Payment Demands: Requests for large upfront payments without safeguards like escrow.

To avoid scams, verify supplier credentials through platforms like Alibaba’s Trade Assurance or third-party inspection services.

Conclusion

Finding and setting up a supplier for your clothing brand requires thorough research, clear communication, and ongoing management. By understanding the process and avoiding pitfalls like vendor scammers, you can build reliable partnerships that support your brand’s growth and success.


  1. Discusses platforms and strategies for sourcing. 

  2. Covers setting up contracts and communication. 

  3. Offers tips for locating trustworthy suppliers. 

  4. Details steps to evaluate and hire vendors. 

  5. Explains how to avoid scams and ensure safety. 

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Picture of Jerry Lee

Jerry Lee

Hello everyone, I'm Jerry Lee, the founder of jinfengapparel.com. I have been operating a factory in China that produces women's clothing for 16 years. The purpose of this article is to share knowledge about women's apparel from the perspective of a Chinese supplier.

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