By the Alpinario production team · 12+ years in activewear OEM
If you are launching a leggings brand, finding a reliable manufacturer is harder than designing the product itself. Here is what we have learned about choosing the right factory.
Step 1: Decide What You Need
- Private label = our styles + your logo (MOQ 100 pcs)
- Custom OEM = fabric/pattern from scratch (MOQ 300 pcs)
- In-stock testing = buy 1 piece to validate the market first
Step 2: The 6 Questions to Ask
- Actual MOQ per color per style? (Low MOQ = flexible workshop)
- Fabric certificates (OEKO-TEX, REACH)?
- Sampling timeline and cost? (7–10 days, refundable)
- In-house stitching and fabric sourcing? (Vertically integrated = quality control)
- Bulk lead time? (Stock 7 days / Custom 30–45 days)
- Video factory visit possible? (Real factories say yes immediately)
Step 3: Understand the Cost Structure
Fabric is 50–60% of cost. MOQ affects price more than you think — a factory quoting low MOQ usually means flexible capacity, not worse pricing.
Step 4: The MOQ Reality Check
Many factories quote 500+ pieces but quietly do not run small batches. Ask for “MOQ per color per style” specifically — that is the number that actually matters.
Step 5: Verify With a Sample
A good factory sends samples in 7–10 days and refunds the sample fee on order.
Final Checklist
- MOQ per color/style confirmed in writing
- Certificates available (OEKO-TEX / REACH / CPSIA)
- Sample policy clear (timeline + fee refund)
- Lead time in contract
- Video factory visit possible
Need a low-MOQ partner? See how Alpinario works.