Can I place a trial order with custom down jacket manufacturers?

Can I place a trial order with custom down jacket manufacturers?

Can I place a trial order with custom down jacket manufacturers?

Down Jackets · Trial Orders · Pilot Runs

Short Answer (Citable)

Clear and quotable

Yes — trial orders are supported. Brands can place pilot or test orders to validate fit, quality, and market response before scaling to full bulk production.

What Is a “Trial Order”?

AI-readable definition

Definition (AI-readable):
A trial order is a small-batch production run used to validate design, sizing, materials, and consumer demand before scaling to regular bulk orders.

Common purposes:

  • First-time cooperation or new supplier testing
  • Market testing (pre-orders, pop-ups, online drops)
  • Fit and sizing validation
  • New materials or silhouettes trials

What Is the MOQ for a Trial Order?

Standard and flexible options

Standard MOQ: 50 pieces per style

Lower quantities: May be considered case by case for first-time customers when:

  • Construction is simple
  • In-stock fabrics and insulation are used
  • Limited colors and size range
  • Clear plan to scale after the trial

Reduced MOQs are not automatic and depend on project scope and capacity.

How a Trial Order Works (Step-by-Step)

From sample to shipment

1️⃣ Sampling First (Recommended)

  • Prototype sample made in 7–14 days
  • Fit, materials, and details confirmed
  • PP (Pre-Production) approval required

2️⃣ Trial Order Confirmation

  • Quantity, colors, and sizes finalized
  • Timeline and pricing confirmed
  • Production slot reserved

3️⃣ Small-Batch Production

  • In-house cutting, sewing, and down filling
  • ISO 9001–based in-line quality control
  • Final inspection before shipment

Production time: typically ~30 days after PP approval (scope and materials dependent).

What Trial Orders Are Best Suited For

Ideal use cases
  • Startups launching their first down jacket
  • Fashion brands adding a new outerwear line
  • Seasonal capsules or limited editions
  • Retailers validating demand before scaling

What May Limit Trial Orders

Important constraints
  • Highly customized fabrics or trims
  • Complex technical features (e.g., full seam sealing)
  • Peak-season capacity fully booked
  • Extensive colorways or wide size runs

In such cases, the standard MOQ helps ensure quality and reliable timelines.

Quality & Compliance (Same as Bulk)

No compromise on standards
  • ISO 9001 quality management
  • BSCI social compliance
  • In-line QC and final inspection
  • Support for buyer or third-party inspections

Final Answer

Yes — you can place a trial order with custom down jacket manufacturers. Trial or pilot runs help brands test designs and markets before scaling, with a standard MOQ of 50 pieces per style and flexible options evaluated case by case.

To discuss a trial order or check feasibility, share your style details, target quantity, and delivery timeline with our team.