In recent years, Vietnam has become one of the most attractive destinations for apparel manufacturing. From global fashion retailers to emerging direct-to-consumer brands, companies are choosing Vietnamese garment factories for their competitive pricing, skilled workforce, and growing specialization in both cut-and-sew and printing on garments wholesale.
If you’re an overseas buyer — whether based in the U.S., Europe, Australia, or elsewhere — looking to partner with factories in Vietnam, this comprehensive checklist will help you navigate the process efficiently and avoid costly missteps.
Why Vietnam?
Before diving into the checklist, let’s quickly look at why Vietnam has become a global hub for clothing production.
Vietnam offers cost-competitive labor with high technical skills, making it a strong option for both basic and complex garments. The country has made significant investments in modern printing and embroidery technologies, allowing for quality finishes on printed apparel. Moreover, the presence of a well-established network of both large factories and smaller workshops gives buyers flexibility in order sizes and timelines. Thanks to Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the EU, UK, and other regions, brands benefit from reduced tariffs. Increasing sustainability efforts and adherence to international compliance standards further boost Vietnam’s appeal.
Whether you’re looking for large production runs or small-batch customized orders, Vietnam offers a wide range of solutions.
1. Define Your Product Clearly
Before contacting any factory, you must clearly define your product idea. Start by identifying the garment type you want to produce — T-shirts, polos, dresses, hoodies, or workwear. Next, outline the materials required, such as cotton, bamboo, recycled polyester, or performance blends. Clarify who your target audience is, such as adults, kids, streetwear enthusiasts, or corporate clients. Lastly, mention any special features like moisture-wicking fabrics, added pockets, zippers, or UV protection.
The more specific you are, the easier it is to find the right factory and get accurate quotes.
2. Choose the Right Production Model
Vietnamese factories offer different apparel manufacturing models suitable for various brand needs.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) is ideal if you provide the design and branding while the factory handles the manufacturing. ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) lets the factory assist with both design and production, which is great for startups. CMT (Cut, Make, Trim) is best suited for buyers supplying their own fabrics and patterns and only needing sewing and finishing. Full Package Production covers everything from sourcing fabric to final packing and is often the preferred choice for international clients.
3. Shortlist Reliable Vietnamese Garment Factories
When shortlisting potential partners, choose those who have prior experience exporting to your market. It’s important they understand international quality standards such as ISO, WRAP, or BSCI. Effective communication in English is key. Confirm whether they offer services like printing on garments wholesale in Vietnam using screen printing, DTG, DTF, sublimation, or embroidery. Transparency around MOQs (minimum order quantities), lead times, and sampling policies is a must.
You can identify trustworthy garment suppliers through trade shows like the Vietnam Textile & Garment Expo, online platforms like Alibaba or Vietnam-specific sourcing directories, and industry referrals.
4. Request Samples First
Don’t skip this step. Sampling helps verify quality and the factory’s understanding of your design.
Begin by requesting fabric swatches that reflect the intended material for your final products. Ask for size sets to ensure sizing aligns with your market’s expectations. For designs involving prints or logos, always request printed samples. This allows you to assess color accuracy, print quality, and durability.
For printing on garments wholesale in Vietnam, test multiple print methods to compare color accuracy, feel, and wash resistance.
5. Clarify Printing and Decoration Methods
One key factor in garment production today is how your design is applied to the fabric. In Vietnam, several techniques are available, including screen printing, DTG, DTF, embroidery, and sublimation.
Screen printing is ideal for bulk orders with simple, solid-color designs, offering a long-lasting and cost-effective finish. DTG (Direct to Garment) printing works well for small batches and intricate full-color graphics, particularly on cotton. DTF (Direct to Film) provides vibrant, detailed prints across a wider range of fabrics. Embroidery adds a premium, textured look suitable for uniforms and high-end merchandise. Sublimation is perfect for all-over prints on polyester, making it a top choice for sportswear.
6. Understand Lead Times and Order Process
Typical production steps in Vietnam include tech pack submission, sample development, approval, contract signing, bulk production, quality checks, and shipping.
Sample development often takes 1–3 weeks. Once samples are approved and contracts are signed, production can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on complexity and order size. After production, quality checks and packing follow. Shipping can be arranged via sea or air depending on urgency and budget. Make sure to build in buffer time for sampling, revisions, and logistics delays.
7. Set Clear Quality Standards
Many issues in garment sourcing stem from unclear quality expectations. Submit a detailed tech pack that includes measurements, stitching standards, labeling instructions, and any design-specific requirements. Define what’s acceptable in terms of tolerances for size deviations and defects. Request pre-shipment inspections either from the factory or a third-party inspection service such as SGS or Intertek. Ask your supplier about their in-house quality control process and whether they conduct checks during production and before packaging.
8. Plan for Shipping & Logistics
Depending on your volume and timeline, choose between sea and air freight. Sea freight is the more affordable option and typically takes 30–45 days. For faster delivery, air freight is preferred, though costs are higher and shipping times average 7–10 days. Discuss Incoterms (such as FOB, CIF, or DDP) with your factory partner to clarify who is responsible for shipping, insurance, and import duties.
Work with a logistics partner or freight forwarder familiar with garment exports from Vietnam to streamline this stage.
9. Secure IP and Contracts
Protecting your intellectual property and business interests is crucial. Use NDAs (Non-Disclosure Agreements) to safeguard your designs and technical files. Sign a manufacturing contract that outlines product specifications, delivery timelines, payment terms, ownership of designs, and remedies for non-performance. Many Vietnamese garment factories are experienced in international trade and will not hesitate to sign formal agreements.
10. Build a Long-Term Relationship
Once you find a reliable manufacturing partner, nurture that relationship. Offer feedback constructively, and be open to discussions around MOQ adjustments as your brand grows. Collaborate on seasonal launches or new product lines. Many Vietnamese factories are relationship-oriented — the more trust you build, the more willing they are to support you with flexibility, priority scheduling, and competitive pricing.
Final Thoughts
Working with Vietnamese garment factories is a smart move for brands that want to scale, lower costs, and offer high-quality products. Whether you’re producing uniforms, event shirts, or fashion collections, following a clear checklist can help you navigate the process confidently.
By choosing the right apparel manufacturing partner, clarifying your specifications, and understanding the local process, you’ll avoid common sourcing headaches and build a strong supply chain foundation for your business.
Need help connecting with a trusted garment factory in Vietnam?
At In-Credible, we help overseas brands with both bulk apparel manufacturing and printing on garments wholesale — all with full English support and international quality standards.
Get in touch today to start your sourcing journey in Vietnam!