Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Apparel

Ordering custom apparel can be a game-changer for your business, event, or cause. Whether you need custom t-shirts for a company event, personalized hoodies for a team, or branded shirts for promotional purposes, choosing the right custom apparel suppliers is crucial. But many people make common mistakes during the ordering process that can lead to frustration, wasted money, or a product that doesn’t meet expectations.

In this article, we’ll discuss 5 common mistakes to avoid when ordering custom apparel and how to ensure your experience is smooth and your products are exactly what you want.

1. Choosing the Wrong Custom Apparel Suppliers

Selecting the right custom apparel suppliers is the first step in the ordering process. Choosing a supplier with poor customer service, low-quality materials, or an unreliable production timeline can lead to big problems. You want a supplier who understands your needs, provides high-quality products, and delivers on time.

• Research the Supplier: Always check reviews and feedback from previous customers to ensure that the supplier is trustworthy and experienced.
• Verify Quality: Ask for samples before placing a bulk order to ensure the apparel quality meets your expectations.
• Timely Delivery: Make sure the supplier can meet your deadline, especially if your event or business launch has a fixed date.

To ensure you’re working with reputable custom apparel suppliers, take the time to do your research and choose wisely.

2. Not Knowing Your Size Range

One of the most common mistakes when ordering custom apparel is failing to choose the correct size range for your team or audience. Offering a limited size range or ordering the wrong sizes can lead to unhappy customers or participants.

• Consider Your Audience: If you’re ordering apparel for a group, make sure to offer a variety of sizes to accommodate everyone. Sizes should range from small to extra-large, with options for both men and women.
• Check the Size Chart: Every supplier may have a slightly different size chart, so it’s crucial to verify your order against the supplier’s specific chart to avoid any confusion.

Understanding your size needs ahead of time will help you make the best decision for your order, ensuring everyone gets apparel that fits comfortably.

3. Neglecting the Importance of Design Quality

Custom apparel is not just about choosing the right fabric or size—it’s also about the design. Poor-quality artwork or an unclear design can result in a shirt that doesn’t reflect your brand or message well.

• High-Resolution Design: Ensure your design is of high resolution and clear. Low-quality images can appear pixelated or blurry when printed on fabric.
• Color Accuracy: Work with your supplier to ensure that the colors in your design match what you envision. Some colors might appear differently on fabric than on a screen.
• Professional Assistance: If you’re not experienced with design, many custom apparel suppliers offer design assistance. This ensures your logo, slogan, or image looks as good on a shirt as it does in digital format.

Taking the time to get your design right ensures that your custom apparel will be visually appealing and represent your brand or event properly.

4. Ignoring Fabric Type and Quality

The type of fabric you choose for your custom apparel can make a huge difference in the comfort, durability, and look of the final product. Don’t just assume that all fabric is the same—choose wisely based on the intended use of the apparel.

• Choose the Right Material: If you’re ordering apparel for active events, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics or blends. If you’re ordering for a corporate event, cotton or polyester blends might be more appropriate.
• Understand Durability: Some fabrics fade, shrink, or lose shape after washing. Ensure the material you choose is durable and able to withstand regular use.

Ask your custom apparel suppliers for fabric samples before placing a large order so you know what to expect from your custom apparel.

5. Forgetting About the Shipping and Delivery Timelines

Another mistake that people often make when ordering custom apparel is forgetting to account for shipping and delivery timelines. If you need the apparel for a specific event or deadline, you must factor in both production time and shipping time.

• Allow for Production Time: Custom apparel often requires time for printing and production. Make sure you place your order well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
• Plan for Shipping: Don’t forget to factor in shipping time, especially if you’re ordering from a supplier that’s far from your location. Some suppliers may offer expedited shipping options if needed.

To ensure your apparel arrives on time, always discuss your event’s timeline with your supplier and plan accordingly.

Types of Custom Apparel Include

When considering custom apparel, it’s important to understand the different options available. Types of custom apparel include various styles such as t-shirts, hoodies, jackets, and even accessories like hats or bags. Each type of apparel offers unique advantages depending on your needs, from promotional giveaways to event merchandise.

Conclusion

Ordering custom apparel is a great way to showcase your brand, promote your event, or offer something special to your team. By avoiding these 5 common mistakes, you can ensure that your custom apparel order meets your expectations, is delivered on time, and helps you achieve your goal.

When choosing a supplier, make sure to partner with custom apparel suppliers who prioritize quality, customer satisfaction, and timely delivery. Additionally, always double-check your design, size range, and fabric choices to ensure your custom apparel represents your brand or cause perfectly.