Top 6 RFQ Questions Custom Sock Factories Must Be Ready to Answer
In the competitive world of promotional products and apparel, securing a bulk order for custom socks requires more than just a good price. Buyers are looking for reliability, quality control, and clear communication. When a Request for Quotation (RFQ) lands in your inbox, your response determines whether you win the contract.
1. What is your Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)?What is your MOQ per design? Can we mix sizes or colors?
"Our standard MOQ is 1,200 pairs per design. We allow size mixing within the same design (e.g., S/M/L) at no extra charge, but color variations require separate MOQs."
2. What is the Full Cost Breakdown?Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the unit price, mold fees, and shipping?
"Certainly. The unit price is based on three factors: material, knitting complexity, and quantity.
Sampling Fee: $50-$80 per design (refundable upon order confirmation).Unit Price: Ranges from $1.20 to $3.50 depending on specifications.Shipping: We offer both FOB (Free on Board) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) options. I recommend DDP for first-time importers as it includes insurance and customs clearance."
3. What Materials Do You Recommend?Do you offer sustainable materials like recycled cotton or bamboo fiber?
Sustainability and comfort are major selling points. Clients often ask about eco-friendly alternatives to traditional polyester.
"Yes, we specialize in eco-friendly custom socks. We offer GRS-certified recycled polyester, organic cotton, and bamboo charcoal fiber. While recycled materials may increase the cost by 10-15%, they significantly enhance brand value and appeal to eco-conscious consumers. We can send you swatches of all available materials for comparison."
4. How Long is the Production Lead Time?How long does it take from sample approval to delivery?
"Our production timeline is strictly managed:
Sampling: 5-7 days after artwork confirmation.
Production: 25-30 days after sample approval and deposit.
Shipping: 3-5 days by air freight; 25-30 days by sea.
Total Estimated Time: Approximately 35-45 days. We also offer expedited production for urgent orders at a premium."
5. Can You Handle Complex Customization (Knitting vs. Printing)?Can you do jacquard knitting for our logo, or do you only do printed socks?
We highly recommend Jacquard knitting for logos. Unlike printing, which can fade or feel rough, jacquard weaving integrates the pattern into the fabric, making it durable and comfortable. We support up to colors in jacquard knitting without extra cost. If you require photorealistic images, we use 360° digital sublimation, which offers unlimited colors but is better suited for sports socks.
6. What Quality Control Measures Do You Have?How do you ensure the socks match the approved samples?
"Quality is our priority. We implement a 3-stage QC process:Pre-production: We send a physical 'Golden Sample' for your signature.In-line Inspection: Our team checks the knitting tension and color matching during production.Final Random Inspection (AQL 2.5): We inspect the finished goods before packaging. We can also arrange a third-party inspection (e.g., SGS, TUV) at your request."