Two quotes for the same garment can differ substantially and both be honest. The difference is usually scope, not price.
Confirm what is included
- Fabric and trims, or CMT only
- Patternmaking and sampling, or development billed separately
- Grading
- Finishing, pressing and packing
- Inspection
- Freight and delivery
Common exclusions
Development costs, custom trims, dye and wash processes, and freight are frequently quoted separately. A quote that appears lower may simply be quoting less of the job.
Ask what quantity the price assumes
Unit price is meaningless without the quantity it assumes. Ask for pricing at two or three quantities so you can see the shape of the curve rather than a single point on it.
Payment terms are part of the price
A lower unit price with a large upfront deposit can be more expensive in cash terms than a slightly higher price with staged payments. Compare the cash schedule alongside the number.
Get it in writing
A written quote referencing a specific tech pack, quantity and fabric is a document you can hold people to. A verbal number is a starting point for a later disagreement.