What to send an activewear manufacturer to get an accurate quote

The fastest way to get a useful quote from a manufacturer is to send the right information in your first message. You don't need a full tech pack. You do need enough detail for the factory to know what you mean and how many you want. Here is the checklist we'd give any founder, whoever they end up working with.

1. A reference for each style

Photos or links to styles you like, from the front and back. If you have a garment, a photo laid flat with a tape measure next to it is even better. Say what you want to keep and what you want to change: "this sports bra, but with a higher neckline and no pads".

2. Quantity per style and per colour

This is the number that decides the price. Give a range if you're unsure: "20–50 per colour, two colours". Ask what the MOQ is for each style before you decide.

3. Sizes

List your size range (for example XS–XL) and, if you know it, how you'd split the quantity across sizes. If you have your own size chart, send it.

4. Fabric and colour

Describe the feel you want: soft and brushed, compressive, matte, shiny, thick, breathable. If you have a fabric in mind, give its composition from the care label. For colours, a Pantone reference or a physical swatch avoids surprises.

5. Logo and labels

• Your logo as a vector file (AI, PDF or SVG).
• Where it goes and how: printed, heat transfer, embroidered or on a woven label.
• Whether you want neck or waistband labels, care labels and swing tags.

6. Packaging

Plain polybags, branded polybags, boxes, or retail packaging with inserts. Say whether each piece is packed individually.

7. Timing and destination

When you need the goods, and the country and city they ship to. This lets the manufacturer include shipping options and tell you honestly whether the date is realistic.

A first message that works

"Hi, we're a pilates brand in Melbourne. We'd like a quote for: (1) the attached leggings in black and olive, 30 per colour, sizes XS–XL; (2) a matching sports bra, same colours and quantities. Logo printed on the waistband (file attached), woven neck label, individual branded polybags. We'd like samples first and stock by March. Shipping to Melbourne."

That message is enough for us to reply with the MOQ, the sample cost and the lead time for each item. You can send it through our quote form, by email to amine@allintrades.com or on WhatsApp at +86 186 5710 0030. Read how OEM works to see what happens next.