FAQs & Support

Our standard MOQ is flexible depending on the style and fabric requirements. Generally, for technical jackets and down-filled coats, it starts at 300-500 pieces per color/style. For specific custom bodybuilding apparel and gym hoodies, lower MOQs can be negotiated.

Yes, absolutely. Our professional pattern masters specialize in translating your technical drawings, design drafts, or comprehensive Tech Packs into perfect physical samples. We adjust fit blockings meticulously to ensure standard western sizing.

Sample development usually takes 7-15 days after fabric and tech details are confirmed. For bulk apparel orders, the production lead time ranges from 30 to 45 days, depending on the design complexity and our workshop scheduling.

We implement strict internal QC protocols and adhere to international AQL 2.5 standards. From raw technical fabric testing (waterproofing/breathability) to final trimming and packing, every single garment goes through 100% inspection before leaving our factory.

Yes. Our in-house team grades your base size (typically M) into a full size run (XS-XXL) for US, EU, or UK markets using CAD software. For sportswear, grading accounts for fabric stretch mechanics. For outerwear, it factors in the layering system (e.g., XL hardshell needs extra armhole depth for mid-layers underneath). You just approve the base size fit sample, and we handle the rest.

We sign an NDA before you share any files. Your tech packs, graded patterns, and CAD files are stored securely with access limited to your project team only. Paper patterns are your property and never repurposed for other clients. We enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy against white-labeling your overstock or rejects. Supply chain confidentiality extends to all material mills and component suppliers we engage on your behalf.

Custom-molded hardware typically adds 3-4 weeks to production. The molding phase (15-20 days for tooling) + sampling/approval (5-7 days) delays the PPS. There’s also a one-time NRE molding fee of $100-$300 per mold. For small batches, this can significantly impact unit cost. We recommend a “Semi-Custom” trim strategy — use standard high-quality blanks with branding only on visible components — to balance premium branding with speed to market.

We use three techniques:
(1) high-density down-proof fabrics (400T+) with Cire finishing to seal yarn gaps;
(2) ultra-fine #11 ball-point needles that slide between yarns rather than cutting them;
(3) anti-wicking expansion threads that slightly swell after sewing to seal needle holes. These are standard on all our down jacket production.

Natural down offers unmatched warmth-to-weight and compressibility for dry, extreme cold conditions. Synthetic insulation (PrimaLoft®, Thinsulate™) retains warmth when wet, dries faster, is hypoallergenic, and is more affordable — ideal for high-output activities or humid environments. Many brands now use hybrid designs: down in the core for warmth, synthetic in high-moisture areas (cuffs, underarms).

A Fit Sample is a critical prototype used to evaluate measurements, proportions, and silhouette on a live model or dress form. Key inspection points during a fit session: balance (does the garment hang straight?), ease (enough room for movement?), symmetry (left/right identical?), drape & silhouette (does fabric fall as intended?), and functionality (can the wearer move comfortably?). This stage catches issues before materials are committed to bulk production.

Bulk production typically takes 3-4 weeks from order confirmation to shipment-ready. This breaks down into: pre-production (sample approval + material sourcing), 2-3 weeks of cutting/sewing/assembly, and 3-4 days for QC, pressing, and packaging. Add shipping: air freight (5-10 days) or sea freight (25-35 days) depending on your destination.

You don’t need a perfect tech pack to start. We only need three things:
(1) visual references — flat sketches, photos, or even reference garments showing what you want;
(2) core function & fabric intent — e.g., “breathable waterproof hardshell for ski wear”;
(3) target audience & fit profile — base size measurements or a physical fit reference. Our technical team fills in the rest: BOM, construction rules, seam sealing specs, and pattern engineering.

A Fit Sample validates the garment’s shape and sizing — it’s made with substitute fabric to test pattern geometry, drape, and proportions. A PPS (Pre-Production Sample) is the final dress rehearsal using exact bulk fabrics, trims, labels, and packaging. The PPS must be approved before mass production begins; it becomes the “Golden Sample” that the production line follows.

We use a multi-stage QC system, not just a final check. It starts with a Top of Production (TOP) sample from the first sewn pieces, followed by continuous in-line inspections during assembly, and ends with an AQL 2.5 final random inspection before shipment. We also welcome independent third-party inspections at any stage.

Sample development: 100% upfront. Bulk production: 50% deposit on PPS approval + PI signing (locks in your fabric and production slot), 50% balance after final AQL 2.5 inspection passes and before shipment. Accepted methods: T/T (most common), L/C for high-volume orders, and online payment for samples.

Samples: shipped via DHL/FedEx/UPS, 3-7 business days globally with full tracking. Bulk orders: we strongly recommend DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) — we handle all freight, customs clearance, and import duties so you receive goods at your door with zero hassle. Two options: DDP Air Freight (8-15 days) for urgent launches, DDP Sea Freight (25-40 days) for cost-effective high-volume shipments. We also support FOB and EXW terms if you use your own forwarder.

Fill Power (FP) measures down loft — how many cubic inches one ounce occupies. 600FP is good-quality, cost-effective insulation suitable for casual winter jackets and moderate outdoor gear. 800FP offers superior warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility, ideal for ultralight alpine and extreme cold use. We help brands select the optimal FP based on target performance, budget, and sustainability goals.

RDS (Responsible Down Standard) is an independent certification ensuring down comes from ducks/geese that were not live-plucked or force-fed. Five Oceans is fully RDS-compliant. For your brand, RDS provides ethical assurance to customers, is a prerequisite for major retailers, and ensures full traceability through Chain of Custody documentation from farm to finished garment.

We are a fully verified, direct apparel manufacturing factory (Zhongshan FiveOceans Garment Co., Ltd.) operating from Shaxi Town, Zhongshan City, Guangdong, China. We strictly adhere to ISO 9001 and GRS standards. To eliminate any trust gap, we fully support third-party physical factory audits, provide recorded video tours of our automated down-filling and seam-sealing lines, and welcome your procurement team to schedule an instant live video call directly with our General Manager right from the workshop floor.