Inside Private Label Hoodie Manufacturing: What Buyers Should Know Before Ordering

Private label hoodie manufacturing gives brands full creative and branding control, from materials to labeling. Whether you’re launching a streetwear line or scaling an established apparel brand, understanding each production step is crucial before placing your first order.

What Is Private Label Hoodie Manufacturing?

Private label hoodie manufacturing means producing hoodies under your own brand name, with your design, tags, and packaging, but manufactured by a third-party clothing factory.

You get exclusive branding rights, while the manufacturer handles fabric sourcing, pattern making, cutting, stitching, and finishing.

Examples of private label clients include:

Streetwear brands launching their first hoodie drops

Fitness labels looking for custom gym hoodies

Influencers creating branded merch

Retail stores wanting logo-printed basics

Related post: Custom Hoodie Manufacturing for Startups: What to Watch Out For

Step-by-Step Process of Private Label Hoodie Manufacturing

1. Tech Pack & Design Submission:

Your hoodie starts with a tech pack, a detailed document including:

Fabric type 100% cotton fleece or 85/15 cotton-poly blend.

GSM (thickness)

Artwork placements

Measurements & size chart

Label and tag designs

Tip: If you don’t have a tech pack yet, your manufacturer can often help you create one from your sketch or reference hoodie.

2. Fabric Sourcing & Material Selection:

Manufacturers source fabrics based on your requirements, popular hoodie fabrics include:

Cotton Fleece (320–480gsm) for streetwear comfort

French Terry for lightweight everyday wear

Heavyweight Fleece (400gsm+) for premium collections

Explore more: What Is Cotton Fleece Fabric? | Best Fabric for Hoodies in Streetwear

3. Sampling & Fit Approval:

A sample hoodie is created before bulk production to finalize fit, color, embroidery, or printing details.

Typical sample timeline: 7–15 working days.

Most factories deduct sample cost from bulk order if production proceeds.

4. Labeling, Tags & Branding:

Private label manufacturing allows you to include:

Woven main label under the collar

Size tabs and care labels

Hang tags and custom packaging

These small details reinforce your brand identity and add retail value.

5. Bulk Production & Quality Control:

Once samples are approved, production begins.

Lead time depends on order size (usually 3–5 weeks).

Each batch goes through stitching, trimming, and final inspection before shipping.

6. Shipping Options: FOB vs. DDP:

Understanding shipping terms can save you cost and time.

Term                        Meaning                                      Ideal For

FOB                          (Free on Board)                    Buyer arranges freight and customs Experienced importers

DDP                      (Delivered Duty Paid)                Factory handles everything to your address Startups & small brands

Check Our Custom Hoodies Collections for Mutlitple Industries we manufacture with private label

Key Factors to Check Before Ordering:

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ):

Many hoodie manufacturers offer flexible MOQs, from 30 to 100 pcs per color for startups.

If you’re testing a market, always confirm MOQ per color and per style in advance.

Fabric GSM & Weight:

Heavier GSM (400–480gsm) = premium streetwear feel.

Lighter GSM (280–320gsm) = everyday retail or fitness hoodie.

Printing & Embroidery Techniques:

Choose the right decoration technique for your brand style:

Screen Printing – best for bold graphics

Embroidery / Chenille – for premium branding

3D Puff Print / Velvet Flock – adds texture and depth

Read next: Screen Printing vs Embroidery: Best Decoration Techniques for Custom Hoodies in 2025

Common Mistakes Buyers Should Avoid:

1. Not Requesting a Sample First:

Skipping a pre-production sample can lead to fabric or fit mismatches.

2. Ignoring Label Placement or Print Size:

Always confirm artwork size and location in your tech pack.

3. Not Clarifying Shipping Terms Early:

DDP vs. FOB can significantly impact your total cost, clarify before paying any deposit.

OEKO-TEX Certified Fabrics – for eco-friendly sourcing standards

Why Private Label Hoodies Are Ideal for Streetwear Brands?

Brand Ownership:

Your designs, your label, your price, full control without factory branding.

Low Startup Costs:

Manufacturers handle production, so you save on factory setup and labor.

Scalable Growth:

Start small (50–100 pcs) and scale as your sales grow.

How to Find a Reliable Private Label Hoodie Manufacturer?

1. Check Portfolio & Samples:

Review previous work and material quality before placing orders.

2. Verify Registration & Address:

Always confirm the manufacturer’s business registration number and factory location.

3. Ask for a Workshop Video or Production Photos:

Transparency builds trust and long-term partnerships.

YKK Official Website – for zipper quality reference

Conclusion:

Private label hoodie manufacturing offers an efficient way for streetwear and startup brands to launch with professional-quality apparel under their own label.

By understanding each step, from tech packs and sampling to production and DDP delivery, you can save time, money, and avoid costly mistakes.

FAQs About Private Label Hoodie Manufacturing:

1. What’s the minimum order quantity for private label hoodies?

We manufacturers offer 30–100 pcs per color, depending on design and fabric.

2. Can I get my own logo and label added?

Yes. Private label manufacturing includes custom woven labels, hang tags, and printed packaging.

3. Do manufacturers provide mock-ups before samples?

Yes, digital mock-ups are shared for approval before physical samples are made.

4. How long does production take?

Usually 3–5 weeks after sample approval.

5. Can I use eco-friendly or sustainable fabrics?

Absolutely, many factories now offer organic cotton, recycled polyester, and bamboo fleece options.