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Tech Pack Tips · 7 min read

Pre-Production Sample Checklist for Apparel Brands

Quick answer: a pre-production sample checklist apparel buyers can use should confirm measurements, fabric, color, decoration, label placement, packaging, QC tolerance, and written approval before bulk cutting. The PP sample is the final production standard, so unclear comments can turn into bulk mistakes.

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01

Factory fact snapshot

A PP sample is different from an early fit sample. It should represent the approved production route as closely as possible.

  • MOQ: bulk MOQ should be confirmed before PP approval so the sample matches the real production route
  • Sampling time: PP sample timing depends on earlier fit and material approvals, but buyers should still plan around a 10-18 working day sample process for custom programs
  • Bulk production: do not start bulk cutting until PP sample comments are closed
  • QC: the PP sample becomes the reference for inline and final inspection
  • 150 pcs: even a 150 pcs low MOQ run should have a written PP approval standard
02

What to check on the PP sample

The checklist should cover both visible design and measurable production details. Do not approve only because the sample looks good in a photo.

  • Measurements, tolerance, fit, shrinkage, and size grading
  • Fabric handfeel, color, GSM, wash result, and rib recovery
  • Print placement, embroidery density, puff height, patches, and trims
  • Main label, care label, hangtag, polybag, carton mark, and packing ratio
03

How to write approval comments

Good approval comments are specific, measurable, and final. If something remains open, it should be written as a condition before bulk starts.

  • Use measurement points rather than general fit language
  • Mark artwork placement from stable garment points
  • List final label and packaging changes separately
  • Keep a dated approval record for bulk QC

Checklist

  • task_altMeasurements and tolerance
  • task_altFabric GSM and handfeel
  • task_altColor and wash result
  • task_altDecoration placement and quality
  • task_altLabels and trim placement
  • task_altPacking method and carton marks
  • task_altWritten approval before bulk

Common Mistakes

  • errorApproving from photos without checking measurements
  • errorLeaving label or packaging details for after production
  • errorChanging artwork after PP approval
  • errorStarting bulk before sample comments are closed

Related Services

Apparel SamplingApparel Quality Control ChecklistTech Pack to ProductionRequest Quote

More Guides

Manufacturing Guide

Questions to Ask a Clothing Manufacturer Before Production

Pricing/MOQ

Clothing Sample Cost Before Bulk Production Guide

Manufacturing Guide

Custom Clothing Labels and Packaging MOQ Guide

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