FAQ
A PPS is a Pre-Production Sample.
A TOP is a Top of Production Sample – meaning one sample of each style representing each SKU from the production line.
A tech pack is a detailed map of all the specifications needed to manufacture a garment. The tech pack must contain the following: a flat sketch of the style, all sized artwork for trims and prints, measurement and placement of all trims, as well as detailed sewing instructions. This document is usually first prepared by the designer and then forwarded to the sample or production department.
The best way to get a quote is to email us a tech pack or at least a draft board with information such as the gender of the garment, the range of sizes, the quantities, and the number of color ways that you would like to produce. Other details that will help us give you a more accurate quote include fabric information, content and weight, full specs or at least length and width of the garment. We will also need a sketch, picture or a reference sample, as well as the target delivery date and the final destination zip code. The price will be confirmed only after the first prototype is made or in some cases when we have enough information or previous references. If you don’t have all of this information, we can schedule a consultation with you to help you decide on all the specifications.
- The first prototype is free of charge when you give a deposit to confirm a purchase order.
- If an order is not confirmed but you desire to make a sample first, there will be sample and courier charges. The samples fees are refundable when you place a deposit to confirm the purchase order.
- First revised samples and pre- production samples are free since they are part of the bulk production process.
- Top of production samples (PPS) are part of the bulk order units and will show on the commercial invoice and packing list.
- Photo Samples, Salesman Samples (SMS) and full size run samples are invoiced at an average of 2.5 of the LDP prices, along with mold charge and screen-printed fees if there are any involved.
- Any charges for sample development of items going into production higher than the minimum required will appear as a credit note to the client once production actually occurs. This does not include the cost of Salesman Samples.
Lead-time to source available fabrics or yarns for quality approval is maximum ten days.
It takes about ten days to get a first prototype samples and maximum fifteen days to get a sample of the labels, trims, strike off, hand loom and lab dips.
On the same day we get our clients comments on a prototype garment, we communicate with the factory all revisions that need to be made. We also give our input again at this time regarding how to improve and change the samples in term of style and fit. We will make a revised sample for fit and construction approval within fifteen days. We will use the approved fabric quality but in any available colors and available trims just for final approval. Trims and lab dips will be approved separately.
A pre- production sample must be made in the bulk material. It is important to properly schedule the product development so that we can cut and sew the P.P.S. (pre- production sample) as soon as the fabric or yarn is delivered to the factory. We will first send you a yard of the fabric or a swatch of the knit for final bulk material quality approval. A pre -production sample then takes a maximum of fifteen days after bulk material approval. This time line depends if the garment requires a special wash or printing.
Depending on the type of material and quantity ordered, it can take between fifteen to forty- five days. Generally speaking the lead-time is thirty- five days on most of the materials. The same time line is true for yarn production. It takes fifteen to thirty days to make and eight days to accomplish the dye and finish process properly.
Once we receive the artwork, color and measurements information, we will get the first prototypes within ten to fifteen days. We only go into production after complete approval.
Lead-time for bulk production is on average thirty- five days after pre- production sample is approved. About a week before the goods are ready to be packed, our Q.A and Q.C team will pull out one unit per size and style from the production line with each color or print represented. This is referred to as T.O.P. units (top of production). These units will be sent to our San Diego office for our approval. Of course we then advise our clients about quality and fit before shipment. The client will then sign off on the T.O.P prior to shipment. If the T.O.P meets all specifications the approved pre- production sample, the goods will be shipped. Acceptance of T.O.Ps is not a step in the process where additional changes can be made. It is just to confirm that there is no variance from the approved pre- production sample.
Our logistic team handles all our clients’ shipments. A packing list and commercial invoice is sent to the client five days prior to the shipping date. Freight and customs clearance charges are included in our LDP prices per unit. Profade Apparel will notify you about the freight schedule and when your shipment cleared customs. We will then make an appointment with your receiving department and will schedule the delivery. Two hours prior to the delivery, the driver will call your designated contact person to proceed with the delivery. The driver will have the receiver sign off a work order, to confirm the number of carton boxes that were received in good condition.
LDP means “landed- duty paid” price. The final price paid by a brand or retailer for finish goods including shipping, duty, delivery, insurance and customs clearance costs.
FOB means “freight on board” price. The price paid by a brand to a supplier at the factory door before shipping and import fees.