What Every Fashion Brand Should Know Before Choosing a Factory

Choosing the right factory is one of the most important decisions a fashion brand can make. The factory you partner with directly affects your quality, lead times, margins, and ultimately your brand reputation. Many brands rush this step and end up facing missed deadlines, inconsistent production, or poor communication.

At Outsourced Fashion Consulting (OFC) in Los Angeles, we have worked with countless brands at every stage, from emerging designers to established labels, and we have seen firsthand what separates successful partnerships from costly mistakes.

Here is what every fashion brand should know before choosing a factory.

1. Understand What Type of Factory You Actually Need

Not all factories operate the same way. Some specialize in CMT (Cut, Make, Trim), while others offer full package production that includes pattern making, sourcing, and finishing.

If you are new to manufacturing or still building out your technical team, full package production can save time and reduce costly miscommunication. If you already have tech packs and materials ready, a CMT setup might be all you need.

Before reaching out, understand your production needs and budget. It will help you find a partner that fits your level of support, not one that overwhelms it.

2. Check Their Communication Process

One of the biggest red flags in production is poor communication. A good factory will provide clear timelines, regular updates, and transparency at every stage.

You should always know what is in progress, what is next, and where things stand. If you find yourself constantly chasing updates, that is a sign your partner is not managing your project with the attention it deserves.

At OFC, our clients receive direct communication and progress updates throughout development and production to keep projects on track.

3. Review Their Quality Control Process

Every factory claims to produce high-quality garments, but few have a defined quality control system in place. Ask how and when they check your garments.

Quality control should happen at multiple stages, not just at the end. That includes fabric inspection, sample evaluation, and mid-production checks to catch issues before they grow into costly errors.

4. Know Their Capacity and Lead Times

Factories vary in size and workload. A smaller operation may offer hands-on service but slower turnaround times. Larger facilities can handle more volume but may not provide the same personal attention.

Before signing a contract, confirm their capacity and how it aligns with your desired delivery window. A reliable partner will give realistic lead times and avoid overpromising.

5. Evaluate Their Experience With Your Product Category

If you are producing activewear, denim, or tailored pieces, you need a factory that specializes in those materials and techniques. Ask to see examples of previous work in your category.

Factories that understand your product type will anticipate challenges in fit, construction, and fabric behavior. This experience saves time and ensures better results.

6. Transparency Matters

Hidden costs and unclear pricing structures are common pain points for brands. Choose a factory that clearly breaks down labor, materials, and additional fees. Transparency builds trust and helps you plan accurate margins from the start.

7. Look for a True Partner, Not Just a Vendor

The best factory relationships feel like collaborations. Your production partner should be invested in your success, helping refine your process and guiding you through challenges with solutions, not excuses.

At OFC, we take a relationship-first approach focused on clear communication, consistent quality, and efficient timelines so your brand can launch with confidence.

The Bottom Line

Choosing a factory is not just about price or location. It is about finding a team that aligns with your brand values, understands your goals, and can deliver on time without sacrificing quality.

If you are ready to work with a production partner that puts your brand’s success first, contact OFC today to start your next collection.