We understand it is a challenge for startups to meet the typical minimum factory standard for garment production. Finding a reliable sportswear manufacturer is a key step to successfully start up a small sportswear company. Therefore, I have compiled a comprehensive resource package that will help you find excellent overseas sportswear manufacturers with low minimum quantity, and build your own sportswear company from scratch. Before leaving, be sure to catch it!
How to Find Sportswear Manufacturers in the USA
Without the knowledge on how to find the best sportswear manufacturers in the USA, locating manufacturers you can work with can be hard. Below, we show you the best ways to find sportswear manufacturers in the USA.
Google can be an ideal way to find sportswear manufacturers in the USA. However, you need to know that the best manufacturers often have outdated websites.
Therefore, you have to parse 10 to 30 pages on the search engine before finding sportswear manufacturers in the USA you can work with.
Trying a variety of keywords can help you. Less specific keywords such as “apparel manufacturer” and “sportswear manufacturer” will work as best as specific keywords such as “T-shirt manufacturers” would.
Local Library
While you may think it is impossible to find sportswear manufacturers in the USA via local libraries, it isn’t. Libraries feature some paid or exclusive access to directories which can help with your search. Some of the otherwise expensive directories may be affordable or even free at your local library.
Referrals
When using the methods outlined in this section to find sportswear manufacturers in the USA, you may have to deal with some dead ends.
For example, your order may be too small for a particular manufacturer. Maybe the manufacturer is not capable of offering you the services you need. In some instances, you may find the company is too busy to work with new customers.
You can make the best of these setbacks. Instead of just ending your conversation with a particular company when you realize that they cannot handle your order, ask for referrals. The manufacturers can recommend sportswear factories which may be willing to handle your order.
Incubators and Local Fashion Schools
Fashion schools and incubators usually have great relationships with manufacturers. They do make use of the manufacturers regularly. Calling or visiting a fashion school or fashion incubator can help you access some of the top-rated sportswear manufacturers in the USA. The incubators and schools work with vetted manufacturers. Emailing or calling the schools should give you access to a list of manufacturers you can trust.
Directories and B2B Marketplaces
Marketplaces and directories are one of the best ways to locate sportswear manufacturers in the USA. In fact, the bigger directories can have thousands or at least hundreds of sportswear manufacturers in the USA.
It is worth noting that not all directories are helpful. While there are numerous manufacturer directories on the internet, most of them are either outdated or low-quality. Therefore, finding the best B2B marketplaces and directories may take some work.
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