A request such as “Please quote fabric for our next order” leaves important questions unanswered. Which material is being compared? Is the quantity for one color or the whole order? Is the buyer asking for a reference sample, a development option, or a quotation against an agreed specification?
For garment factories and sourcing teams, a useful first inquiry separates three things: what is already decided, what needs development, and what still needs commercial confirmation. Use the checklist below before sending your next request.
1. Start with the garment and the material requirement
State the garment type, where the fabric will be used, and the purpose of the request. Identify the main fabric separately from rib trims, lining, or other supporting textile inputs. If you have selected a catalog reference, include its link or article code; do not rely on a trade name alone.
Choose whether you need a quotation or a fabric sample. If you need both, explain which decision the sample must support before the quotation can be finalized. You can use the fabric catalog to identify a starting reference, not as proof of available stock.
2. Separate target specifications from confirmed specifications
- Composition: provide the target fiber percentages, or state that composition is still open.
- Fabric weight: give the target GSM (grams per square meter), and any buyer-approved tolerance. If no tolerance has been agreed, mark it “to be confirmed.”
- Usable width: state the width and unit, and clarify whether a reference describes open-width or tubular fabric. Do not leave the measurement basis implicit.
- Construction and finish: describe what is required and identify any reference sample or specification that defines it.
Label each item as “confirmed,” “target,” or “to be confirmed.” Do not fill gaps with numbers copied from a different fabric simply to complete the form. If you do not yet know the specifications, send the intended use and the information you do have, and identify what you need help reviewing.
3. Break down quantity by color and keep the units explicit
List each color, its reference, and its planned quantity. A total quantity without a color breakdown leaves the order structure unclear. Mark estimated quantities as estimates, and distinguish the current requirement from possible repeat orders.
The CZ Fabrics inquiry form asks for quantity per color in kilograms and the number of colors. If your requirement is in meters or yards, keep that original unit in the additional-details field and request confirmation of the conversion basis. Do not enter a meter quantity into a kilogram field. If quantities differ by color, include the individual breakdown rather than implying that every color has the same quantity.
4. Attach a reference that explains the open questions
Use a technical specification, relevant tech-pack pages, or clear reference images. Give each file a revision date or version and identify the parts that matter: composition, width, finish, color reference, or the garment detail being developed. Share only files you are authorized to provide, and remove unrelated confidential information.
If color, handle, or performance must be approved, describe the approval process rather than treating an image as approval. Where testing is required, provide the buyer’s method and acceptance criteria, or mark them for agreement. A request for a test or certificate is not evidence that a material already meets it.
5. Include destination and requested milestones
Provide the destination country and city or port. List your requested sample-review and delivery dates as project targets, not confirmed supplier commitments. Mention any required documents or buyer-specific conditions for review.
MOQ, sample and bulk timing, sourcing scope, and applicable charges require confirmation after the material specification, colors, quantity, and project route have been reviewed. Keep these items open until they are confirmed for your particular request.
6. Copy this brief into your inquiry
Replace the bracketed prompts with your project details. Leave unknown items clearly marked instead of guessing.
- Company and contact: [company, contact name, work email]
- Request: [quotation / sample / both, and purpose]
- Garment and use: [garment type; main fabric or supporting material]
- Reference: [catalog link, article code, or sample reference]
- Specifications: [composition; GSM; usable width and unit; construction; finish]
- Color breakdown: [color reference + quantity + unit for each color]
- Approval requirements: [sample criteria; test method if specified; person responsible]
- Destination and target dates: [country, city/port; requested milestones]
- Attachments: [filename and revision]
- Open points: [items needing technical or commercial confirmation]
7. Compare replies against the same brief
Before comparing quotations, check that each reply addresses the same composition, weight, usable width, finish, color breakdown, and quantity unit. Ask suppliers to identify proposed substitutions separately. Record what is included, what is excluded, and what remains subject to sample approval or commercial confirmation.
When the requirement changes, issue an updated brief with a new version. This gives the buyer, sample reviewer, and supplier one current reference rather than several conflicting messages.
Send your specification for review
Ready to start? Use the sample and quotation request form. Submit the details you know and list the points still open. CZ Fabrics distinguishes direct knit manufacturing from coordinated sourcing and development; the route for your material must be reviewed rather than assumed from the catalog alone.
This checklist is a preparation aid, not a quotation, a stock statement, or a commitment on MOQ, performance, or delivery.