EN
I. Communication and design issues
1. Language and cultural barriers
When we cooperate with overseas factories (such as factories in China and Southeast Asia), we often encounter language barriers that lead to misunderstandings of many communication material details and unclear communication of design details (such as size and process). In order to avoid this problem, we generally use detailed drawings and physical samples for communication. Sometimes we also find local intermediaries or translators to assist in communication.
2. Difficulty in implementing the design draft
Many times, the factory may not be able to make complex designs (such as special cutting and printing) due to technical limitations, or there may be errors in the understanding of the design, resulting in the finished product not meeting expectations.
In this case, we must confirm in advance what processes the factory can do and make clear modifications through multiple proofing.
II. Production quality and delivery issues
1.Quality control does not meet standards
We often encounter problems such as fabric shrinkage, color difference, uneven stitching, etc. If we find a small factory that lacks strict quality inspection procedures, we will often encounter this problem.
To solve this problem and minimize losses, a detailed quality agreement must be signed before placing an order to clarify the defective rate. It is best to inspect the goods in batches or entrust a third party for quality inspection.
2.Delivery delay
If you find a factory to make your own clothing, you are likely to encounter a delivery delay. This is because the factory's order schedule is saturated, raw materials are in short supply, and emergencies (such as power outages) may lead to delays.
Suggestion: Specify the delivery date and liquidated damages clauses in the contract, reserve buffer time, and avoid placing orders during peak seasons.
3.Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) Limit
Before accepting your order, the factory will ask you the quantity of each order. If the quantity is too small, the design is complex and the process is complicated, few factories will accept it. Even if they do, the unit price will be very high, which is not friendly to start-up brands. Start-up brands should try to find factories that specialize in small orders, or produce with other brands.
III. Cost and supply chain risks
1.Hidden costs
When we look for factories to produce clothes, we often ignore some hidden costs, such as pattern making fees, mold fees, logistics fees, etc. If these costs are not clarified with the factory in the early stage, it is easy to overspend the budget at the time of settlement. Therefore, before placing an order, ask the factory to provide a written list of expenses to clarify the allocation of various costs.
2.Raw material fluctuations
Affected by market supply and demand, exchange rates, etc., the price of fabrics is often unstable, which will lead to uncontrollable costs of purchasing fabrics. To reduce losses in this area, we generally sign long-term purchase agreements with individual customers, and sometimes choose general fabrics to reduce risks.
3.Supply chain disruptions
Raw material suppliers out of stock and logistics delays (such as customs inspections) may affect production progress.
At this time, it is recommended to select multiple suppliers to spread risks; purchase transportation insurance.
IV. Legal and compliance issues
1.Intellectual property leakage
Design drawings or samples may be leaked or copied by the factory.It is recommended to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with the factory, choose a reputable factory, and provide design documents in stages.
2.Environmental protection and labor compliance
Some countries require compliance with environmental standards (such as EU REACH). If the factory uses harmful dyes or violates labor regulations, the product may be detained or fined.It is recommended to understand the regulations of the exporting country in advance and require the factory to provide compliance certification (such as BSCI certification).
V. Cooperation trust and contract disputes
1.Payment risks
After advance payment, the factory delays delivery or sells inferior goods as good ones, or even runs away with the money.It is recommended to pay in installments (such as 30% deposit + 70% balance) and use a letter of credit or third-party guarantee.
2.The contract terms are vague
The details such as quality, delivery time, and liability for breach of contract are not clear, which makes it difficult to resolve disputes.It is recommended to hire a legal advisor to review the contract and refine the breach of contract compensation clauses.
VI. Other potential problems
Insufficient technical capabilities: The factory equipment is old and cannot achieve special processes (such as laser cutting and 3D embroidery).
Lack of after-sales support: The factory shirks responsibility when returning goods due to quality problems.
Changes in market demand: Long production cycles lead to product obsolescence (such as fast changes in fashion trends).
Summary of response strategies
Factory screening: On-site inspection, check historical customer cases, verify qualifications and reputation.
Small batch trial production: Place a small order to test quality and cooperation first, then expand cooperation.
Clear documentation: All requirements (design, quality, delivery time) are written into the contract to avoid verbal promises.
Establish alternative plans: Contact backup factories in advance to spread risks.Through systematic planning and risk prediction, the uncertainty in production can be greatly reduced, ensuring the smooth implementation of clothing from design to delivery.
