What's the best way to start a small clothing line business?

What's the best way to start a clothing line?

• I've been thinking about starting a clothing line (mostly t-shirts) with my close friend and myself. We have a lot of great ideas but our main concern is how we should get started and how to deal with all the supplies needed. If you guys have any suggestion of how we can get a line started, please tell (:

• Answer:

  O.K. Here is goes. My .02 cents. Just a few things to keep in mind. First you need to know how much is the cost per unit. $3.00-$5.00 a unit??? or less depending on manufacturer,quality and minimum order. (what type of cotton, jersey, pique, combed, etc..100% cotton...50/50....80/20...etc) does it include hang tags, company label, price tags, bar code and polybag. Will it be shipped all together or will it be boxed by style, size or combination of both. Then you need to add your shipping cost. the cost manufacturing company will charge to ship items to you. Freight or airway?? (FOB) airway is more expensive but you will get your items quicker. Then there is customs duty. Depends on the fabric and customs code. Usually $16.5% of the invoice. but can go up to 19% depending on the country you are importing from. If you are ordering more than $2,000 you will also, need a broker as customs will not release your items without an entry on invoices more than $2000 and a broker will provide the customs entry forms as well as making sure your order is released from customs. So, you will need to add $150-$200 for brokers fees. See http://www.cbp.gov for details. Then you will have to add expenses.... Cost of internet service if you are selling on line. Cost of electricity, etc...etc... (Cost of running your company) Cost of storage if any. Payroll (paying employees if any or paying yourself) You get the picture. I hope that this has helped. If you have any questions we are happy to help as we were exactly were you are now 5 years ago and now we have our own brand in several stores. We also, do custom apparel for 2 different businesses and deal with 4 different manufacturers. President & CEO Mr. Soba SOBAWEAR, LLC http://www.sobawear.com