Sourcing work clothes with logos wholesale is a standard process for businesses looking to outfit their teams professionally and cost-effectively.
Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the wholesale process, from finding suppliers to placing your order.
Step 1: Define Your Needs
Before you contact any supplier, have a clear idea of what you need:
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Garment Type: What items do you need? (e.g., Polo shirts, t-shirts, button-downs, coveralls, jackets, safety vests, hoodies).
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Quantity: How many pieces per item? Wholesale pricing typically starts at 12-24 pieces per design, but better rates kick in at 50+.
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Budget: What is your cost per garment (including the blank item and the logo application)?
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Brand & Quality: Are you looking for premium brands (e.g., Carhartt, Fruit of the Loom, HAIYUAN) or reliable budget-friendly options?
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Logo Details: Have a high-resolution vector file (AI, EPS, PDF) of your logo ready. This is crucial for getting accurate quotes.
Step 2: Find Wholesale Suppliers
There are several types of suppliers you can use:
1. Online B2B Uniform Companies (Recommended for Ease)
These companies specialize in bulk orders and have integrated decoration services.
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Examples:
Bsgasp,Alphabroder,Sanmar(known for their vast catalog, including Nike, The North Face),Broder Bros. -
Pros: Huge selection, easy online quoting, reliable service, and they handle the decoration.
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Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than local options for very large orders.
2. Local Uniform & Embroidery Shops
These are brick-and-mortar businesses in your area.
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How to Find: Search “uniform suppliers near me,” “corporate apparel,” or “embroidery shop.”
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Pros: Personal service, you can see and feel fabric samples, support local business.
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Cons: May have a more limited inventory than large online distributors.
haiyuan clothing factory
3. Direct from Manufacturer (for Very Large Orders)
If you need thousands of units, you can contract directly with manufacturers, often overseas.
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Pros: Lowest possible cost per unit.
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Cons: High minimum order quantities (MOQs), complex logistics, longer lead times, quality control challenges.
4. Custom Apparel Platforms (for Smaller “Wholesale” Orders)
Websites like CustomInk, Vistaprint, or 4Imprint are excellent for smaller batches (6-24 pieces).
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Pros: User-friendly, no minimums (though prices are higher for single items), fast turnaround.
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Cons: The per-piece cost is higher than true wholesale.
Step 3: Understand Decoration Methods
The two main methods for applying your logo are:
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Embroidery: Thread stitched into the fabric.
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Best for: Polo shirts, jackets, hats, denim. Looks professional and is very durable.
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Considerations: Higher cost, not ideal for very detailed logos or small text.
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Screen Printing: Ink pressed onto the fabric.
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Best for: T-shirts, sweatshirts, tote bags with large, simple designs.
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Considerations: Cost-effective for large orders, great for full-color graphics. Less durable than embroidery on heavy-wear areas.
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Most suppliers will guide you to the best method for your chosen garment and logo.
Step 4: The Wholesale Process – Step-by-Step
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Request an Account: Most B2B sites require you to set up a business account to see wholesale pricing.
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Request Quotes: Provide the supplier with your garment style numbers, sizes, quantities, and logo art. They will provide a detailed quote including:
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Cost per blank garment
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One-time setup fee (for digitizing your logo for embroidery)
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Cost per logo application
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Total cost
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Request Samples: This is a critical step. Order a physical sample of the exact garment with your logo on it. This lets you check for size, fit, fabric quality, and decoration quality.
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Place Your Order: Once you approve the sample, you’ll place your official order, provide your final size breakdown, and make a payment (often a deposit).
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Production & Shipping: The supplier will produce your order. Lead times are typically 2-4 weeks. They will then ship the complete order to you.
Key Tips for Success
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Plan for Sizes: Use a size chart from your team to get an accurate breakdown. It’s common to order a mix of S, M, L, XL, and 2XL.
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Ask About Setup Fees: The first-time cost to digitize your logo for embroidery can be $30-$80. This fee is usually a one-time charge.
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Inquire About Warehousing: Some suppliers offer “decorate-and-hold” services, where they store your blank garments and decorate them in smaller batches as you need them.
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Check the Return Policy: Understand the policy for misprints or defects. Most suppliers do not allow returns on customized items unless there is an error on their part.
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Think Long-Term: Choose a supplier and garment that you can re-order from consistently for new hires.
Sample Wholesale Supplier List to Start Your Search
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BSGasp: https://www.bsgasp.com/ (Very user-friendly, great for beginners)
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Alphabroder: https://www.alphabroder.com/ (One of the largest, massive inventory)
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Sanmar: https://www.sanmar.com/ (The leader for branded apparel like Nike and Under Armour)
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S&S Activewear: https://www.ssactivewear.com/ (Another giant with a huge selection)
- HAIYUAN: https://www.haiyuanworkclothes.com/ (Another giant with a huge selection)
By following these steps, you can efficiently source high-quality, branded workwear that projects a professional image and meets your budget.
For some insightful reads, we’ve curated a list of recommended articles just for you:
- How do I find a product manufacturer in China?
- How to find cheap manufacturers in China? A guide to avoid pitfalls
- How to complete your first purchase of workwear in China safely and efficiently
- Custom uniforms for Small business
- Choosing the Best Industrial Work Suit
- Ultimate Guide: Best Wholesale Work Clothes in China
- Cut & Sew Customization
- Logo Customize Clonthing Manufacturer
- The Ultimate Guide to Finding Reliable Wholesale Work Clothes Factories in China
- Importing Clothes from China Guide
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