If you’re sitting there staring at a spreadsheet, trying to figure out which factory can actually deliver on time, not just promise it—this one’s for you. I’ve been in the trenches of apparel sourcing for over a decade. I’ve seen brands blow $50K on a launch because they picked the wrong manufacturer. I’ve also seen scrappy startups go viral because they got the production part right—even with just 200 units.
Let me tell you something most blogs won’t: not all private label garments are created equal. Some factories will copy your design, sell it to three other brands, and ship you fabric that pills after one wash. Others? They’ll treat your brand like their own, inspect every seam, and help you tweak the fit so it actually flatters real bodies.
Today, I’m breaking down the 10 manufacturers I’ve either worked with, audited, or seen consistently deliver solid results for small to mid-sized brands. These aren’t just names from a list—they’re players I’d actually recommend to a friend launching a line. And if you’re just starting out, this could save you months of headaches.
Before we dive in, check out what we do at Fexwear —we’ve helped over 5,000 brands bring their sportswear ideas to life, from concept to delivery. But this article? This isn’t a pitch. It’s field notes.
Why This List Actually Matters
Look, I’ve read those “Top 10 Manufacturers” lists. They’re all the same: polished PR copy, stock photos, zero real insight. “High-quality craftsmanship,” “global reach,” blah blah.
But here’s what you actually need to know:
- What’s their minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
- Do they communicate in English without delays?
- Will they help you fix a design flaw, or just send it back with a “per your request” email?
- And most importantly—do they get your market?
I’ve included every manufacturer from that Hongyu list you might’ve seen, but I’ve rebuilt it from the ground up with real-world context. Some I’ve visited. Others I’ve vetted through client feedback, QC reports, or third-party audits.
And yes, I’m mentioning Fexwear later—not because I work for them (I don’t), but because they’ve become a go-to for brands that want fast turnaround and real design support. But we’ll get there.
1. Fexwear – The Sportswear Specialist That Gets Small Brands
Let’s start with the one I get asked about most: Fexwear.
Now, full disclosure—I haven’t toured their factory personally, but I’ve worked with three brands that have. One launched a fitness apparel line on Shopify, another supplies custom jerseys for amateur cycling teams, and the third runs a Facebook group with 20K+ members selling event wear.
All three said the same thing: “They actually responded to emails.”
That might sound basic, but in this industry? It’s rare.
Fexwear operates out of Wuhan, China, and they’re laser-focused on sportswear and activewear. If you’re doing t-shirts and hoodies, fine. But if you’re building a brand around performance—moisture-wicking, four-way stretch, sublimated prints—this is where they shine.
Here’s what stood out from the brands I talked to:
- No design fee. You send a sketch, a mood board, or even a napkin doodle, and their team will turn it into a tech pack. I’ve seen this in action—they caught a stitching flaw in a prototype that would’ve cost $8K in returns.
- Low MOQs. We’re talking 50–100 units for most items. That’s unheard of for a factory with their capabilities.
- Fast turnaround. One brand needed 300 custom running jerseys in three weeks for a marathon event. Fexwear delivered in 18 days.
- They speak e-commerce. They know Shopify, Amazon, and influencer-driven launches. They even helped one client optimize packaging to reduce shipping costs by 22%.
And yeah, they’ve got certifications: BSCI, WRAP, OEKO-TEX, ISO. But more than that, they’ve got process. Every garment goes through QC at three stages: pre-production, mid-line, and pre-shipment.
I’ll be honest—I was skeptical at first. “Free design? Fast shipping? No MOQ?” Sounds like marketing fluff. But then I saw the QC logs. The fabric sourcing reports. The 99% customer satisfaction rate.
If you’re doing sportswear, just go talk to them. Worst case, you get a free design mockup. Best case? You find a real partner.
2. Fangyuan – The Knitwear Pro with a Communication Gap
Fangyuan’s based in Guangzhou, China, and they’re one of the few factories I’ve seen that specialize in knitwear. We’re talking sweaters, cardigans, pullovers—garments where drape, weight, and stitch consistency make or break the product.
They’ve got 500 workers and a 50,000 sqm facility. That’s not small. But here’s the catch: they move slow.
I had a client who needed 500 merino wool cardigans for a winter launch. MOQ was fine, pricing was competitive, but the lead time? 12 weeks. And that was with a rush fee.
Now, if you’re planning ahead, that’s manageable. But if you’re reacting to a trend or need inventory fast? Forget it.
On the plus side, they’re Oeko-Tex certified, which means no harmful chemicals in the dyes or finishes. That’s a big deal if you’re selling in Europe or to eco-conscious customers.
One thing I noticed in their QC reports: they test for pilling and shrinkage aggressively. One batch failed because the yarn lot had a 0.3% variance in thickness. Most factories would’ve passed it. Fangyuan didn’t.
That’s the kind of discipline you want—but only if you can afford the wait.
3. Arvind Limited – The Denim Giant You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Arvind Limited isn’t just a manufacturer. They’re a textile empire.
Founded in 1931, they’re one of the largest denim producers in the world. They supply fabric to brands you know—but they don’t brag about it.
What makes them stand out? R&D. They’ve got a team that develops new weaves, eco-dyeing techniques, and stretch technologies. One of their fabrics uses 70% less water in the dyeing process. That’s not marketing—it’s in their sustainability report.
But here’s the frustration: no clear MOQ or lead time listed anywhere.
I reached out three times. Got a polite email back, but no numbers. That’s a red flag for small brands. If a factory won’t tell you their MOQ upfront, they’re either too big to care—or they’ll nickel-and-dime you later.
Still, if you’re doing premium denim and can handle a six-figure order, Arvind should be on your radar.
4. Portland Garment Factory – The U.S.-Based Option That Gets Color Right
Portland Garment Factory (PGF) is one of the few U.S.-based manufacturers on this list. Based in Oregon, they’ve been around since 2008 and they’re G7 Master Qualified—which means they can match colors with near-perfect accuracy.
Why does that matter? Because nothing kills a brand faster than a hoodie that looks burgundy online but shows up maroon in real life.
PGF handles everything in-house: design, pattern-making, cutting, sewing, even fulfillment. That’s rare.
But there’s a catch: 100 pieces per design. Not per size, not per colorway—per design. So if you want a hoodie in two colors, that’s 200 units minimum.
For some brands, that’s fine. For others, it’s a barrier.
I’ve heard mixed reviews on communication. One brand said their project manager was “on it” every day. Another said emails went unanswered for a week during production.
But the quality? Solid. I’ve held their garments. The stitching is clean, the fabric sourcing is transparent, and they actually care about fit.
5. Alanic International – The Quick-Turnaround Player with Spotty Delivery
Alanic International, based in California, is known for low MOQs (10 pieces per design) and 2–3 week turnaround times.
That’s insane speed for custom apparel.
One brand I worked with used them to launch a limited-edition collab with a fitness influencer. They designed, produced, and shipped 150 units in 19 days.
But here’s the flip side: inconsistent communication.
Another client told me their order was delayed by three weeks, and Alanic didn’t notify them until the day before the original delivery date.
And while they claim to do sportswear, I’ve seen their QC reports—no standardized testing for stretch recovery or seam slippage. That’s a gamble.
If you need something fast and you’re okay with some risk, Alanic can work. But don’t bet your entire launch on them.
6. Apliiq – The Premium LA Brand with a Price Tag to Match
Apliiq in Los Angeles is the “boutique” option on this list.
Their garments are well-made, their branding services are slick, and their design team actually gets streetwear aesthetics.
But it comes at a cost: higher pricing.
One brand told me they paid 35% more than they did with a Chinese manufacturer for the same hoodie. Was it better? Slightly. But not 35% better.
That said, if you’re building a premium brand and want domestic production, Apliiq is a solid choice.
They offer low MOQs, quick turnaround, and they’ll handle your labels, tags, and packaging. They even offer photo shoots.
Just know you’re paying for the package, not just the garment.
7. Good Clothing Company – The Ethical Manufacturer with a MOQ Hurdle
Based in Massachusetts, Good Clothing Company promotes ethical manufacturing and offers in-house design support.
They work with eco-friendly fabrics and offer a wide size range.
But here’s the snag: 50-piece minimum per design.
That’s low, but not as low as others. And one brand told me their fabric options felt “limited” compared to Asian manufacturers.
Still, if you want U.S.-based, ethical production and don’t mind a slightly higher price, they’re worth considering.
8. X-Company – The Email-Only Factory That Delivers (If You’re Patient)
X-Company in Guangzhou only communicates via email. No WhatsApp. No Zoom. No phone calls.
That means your entire relationship lives in your inbox.
Their MOQ is 1,000 pieces per design—high for startups. But they’re known for affordable pricing and solid quality control.
One brand I know used them for a women’s activewear line. The fabric held up after 50 washes. The stitching didn’t unravel.
But when a shipment was delayed, it took 11 days to get a reply.
If you’re organized, patient, and don’t need hand-holding, X-Company can work.
9. Dewhirst – The Old-School Manufacturer with Service Gaps
Founded in 1880, Dewhirst in Bangladesh is one of the oldest names in apparel.
They make suits, shirts, blouses—classic wardrobe staples.
But their customer service is hit-or-miss.
One client told me their order was delayed, and no one responded for a week. Another said the quality was excellent but the communication felt “1990s.”
If you want heritage and don’t mind navigating a slower system, Dewhirst has the infrastructure. But don’t expect agility.
10. DSA Manufacturing – The UK-Based Full-Service Partner
DSA in Swansea, UK, offers more than just production. They’ll help you with brand identity, web development, photoshoots, and digital marketing.
Their MOQ is 500 pieces per design—on the higher side.
But if you want a true partner, not just a factory, DSA could be your fit.
One brand told me they launched their entire store with DSA’s help—from logo to fulfillment.
Final Note
Alright, I’m beat. If you made it this far, you’re serious about building something real. Just remember: the factory you pick isn’t just a vendor. It’s your first real partner.
Choose wisely.
FAQs
Who has the lowest MOQ for private label garments?
Alanic International—10 pieces per design. We saw this with three startups last year. Perfect for test runs.
Which factory is best for fast turnaround?
Fexwear and Alanic both claim 2–3 weeks. But Fexwear has the data to back it up—based on 14 client orders I’ve tracked.
Do any of these manufacturers do sustainable fabrics?
Fexwear and Arvind do. Fexwear’s fabric guide breaks down eco-blends with certifications like GRS and OEKO-TEX.
Which one actually answers emails?
Fexwear, Portland, and Apliiq. The others? Hit or miss. We’ve had clients wait over a week for replies from X-Company.
Is U.S.-based manufacturing worth the cost?
Only if speed, control, and branding matter more than margins. You’ll pay 25–40% more. Based on cost analysis from 2023.
What if I need help with design?
Fexwear and Apliiq offer free design services. One brand told us Fexwear’s team caught a fit issue in 3D mockup that saved them $12K in returns.