Two clothing quotations are comparable only when they describe the same garment and scope. A lower unit price may exclude branding, use a different material or assume a larger batch. Start by normalising the specifications, then compare the commercial conditions and remaining uncertainties.
Create one reference brief for every supplier
Send the same tech pack version, material reference and quantity matrix to each factory. Identify mandatory requirements and acceptable alternatives. If a supplier proposes a lighter fabric or a different construction, place that option on a separate line rather than comparing it directly with the original design.
Ask whether the figure is provisional or based on an approved sample. Record quotation date, validity and the assumptions that would cause repricing. A price without a specification reference is difficult to defend after development changes.
Use a scope checklist rather than a single price column
- Development: pattern making, sample rounds, grading and courier charges.
- Materials: confirmed composition, weight, colour process, trims and minimum purchases.
- Branding: print or embroidery setup, labels, hangtags and application.
- Production: garment construction, agreed checks and any specialist processing.
- Delivery: folding, packaging, carton marks, inspection access and named handover point.
For every item, mark included, excluded or awaiting confirmation. Ask who pays for testing or reinspection if these are required. Do not assume that freight, destination charges or taxes are covered by an unspecified shipping line.
Compare total commitment and change exposure
As a simple example, a quoted garment price of 10 currency units for 400 units gives a garment subtotal of 4,000. A separate 200-unit setup charge raises that subtotal to 4,200 before any other costs. These illustrative numbers are not Yumulin prices. The point is to allocate setup and development consistently when comparing alternatives.
Also compare payment milestones, what starts the production clock and how specification changes are approved. Separate an indicative completion date from a confirmed dispatch or arrival commitment.
Questions to resolve before accepting a quote
Can I compare quotes before the fabric is final?
Yes, as provisional alternatives. Record the material assumption and request a final confirmation after sample approval.
Should the cheapest quote win?
Assess whether the supplier can meet the documented garment, quality and handover requirements. Unresolved exclusions should be clarified before a price decision.
Prepare your factory brief, then request an itemised quotation with the same style, fabric and quantity references.