Start with the sample, not the pitch
The difference between a smooth reorder and a ruined season usually comes down to supplier selection. A manufacturer that can turn a brief into an accurate physical sample is already ahead. Treat the sample as the first QC gate, not a formality.
The due-diligence checklist
- Factory basics — business license, years operating, and whether they own the tooling or subcontract.
- Capability match — can they make your specific product (foam density, stitching, print) or only what is in their catalog?
- Certifications — can they supply test reports for your target market (EN71, ASTM F963, CPSIA)?
- QC process — do they run inline and pre-shipment checks, and will they share a report?
- Communication — do replies include specifics (materials, lead times) rather than vague reassurance?
- MOQ flexibility — is the minimum order quantity fixed, and what does a reorder look like?
- IP protection — for custom designs, confirm they will not reuse your mold or artwork for other clients.
- References — ask for buyers in a similar market who can vouch.
Red flags to slow down on
- Refusal to send a sample, or only offering stock photos.
- Prices far below market with no explanation.
- Vague answers on materials or certifications.
- Pressure to skip the contract or inspection step.
Make the first order a learning order
Even after vetting, keep the first production run modest, inspect it, and document the spec so reorders stay consistent. Our import checklist walks through the documents and steps in order, and the private label and OEM guide covers custom branding specifically.
If you would rather not build this process alone, our sourcing desk matches briefs to vetted Yiwu factories and manages sampling and inspection end to end. Start a conversation via the contact page, or explore the full set of plays on our wholesale guides hub.
