Sample Lead Time vs Bulk Lead Time
Your first interaction with any apparel manufacturer is a sample. Blank-base garments in our in-stock colors sample in 3 to 5 days. Custom-fabric or decorated samples take 5 to 10 days because they need setup. Once the sample is approved, a confirmed repeat style ships in about 7 days, while a new custom production run takes 10 to 15 days.
Rule of thumb: sampling and bulk happen on the same production lines at a vertically integrated factory, so there is no re-setup cost when you move from sample to bulk.
Typical Timeline by Order Type
| Order type | Sample | Bulk |
|---|---|---|
| In-stock blank-base (digital print) | 3 to 5 days | 7 days repeat |
| Custom blank-base (your fabric/color) | 5 to 10 days | 10 to 15 days |
| Screen print / embroidery | 5 to 10 days | 10 to 15 days |
| Full custom knit program | 10 to 15 days | 15 to 25 days |
These are planning windows, not guarantees. Actual days depend on fabric stock, decoration method and season. We confirm a firm date in the quotation.
What Determines Your Lead Time
- Fabric availability: in-stock colors are immediate; custom yarn dyeing adds days.
- Decoration method: digital print is fast; screen print and embroidery need setup.
- Order quantity: larger runs schedule onto dedicated lines more efficiently.
- Season: peak months (Aug to Oct) run tighter than the spring lull.
- Customization depth: branded trims and packaging add a sourcing step.
How to Shorten Your Lead Time
- Use in-stock blank-base colors and digital print for the fastest path.
- Send a complete tech pack so we do not wait on missing specs.
- Approve the sample by photo proof when a physical send is slow.
- Pre-book capacity if you have a fixed launch date.
For launches with a hard deadline, tell us the date in the inquiry. We will reverse-plan the sample and bulk windows so you land on time.
Common Lead Time Questions
- Can I get bulk in under 7 days? Only for confirmed repeats of an in-stock blank-base style.
- Why does custom fabric take longer? Yarn must be sourced or dyed to your spec before cutting.
- Does a larger order take longer? Not linearly — bigger runs use dedicated lines more efficiently.