Wholesale Clothing Glossary

Minimum order quantity (MOQ)

Minimum order quantity is the lowest number of pieces a manufacturer will put into production for a style. In Turkish wholesale womenswear it is usually defined through a size run, and the value varies by manufacturer, style and fabric.

Size run

A size run is the production bundle formed by the sizes of one style. Wholesale quantities are usually discussed as 'how many runs', and the size split within a run varies by manufacturer.

Lead time

Lead time is the period from order to delivery of production. Capacity is limited at the start of a season, so lead times lengthen; confirming it in writing before ordering is recommended.

Sample

A sample is a single piece produced before bulk production to verify pattern, fabric and workmanship. Requesting a sample before a first order is common practice with a new supplier.

Pattern and fit

A pattern is the cutting template of a garment and the way that template sits on the body. Slim, regular and oversized fits produce different looks even on the same size chart.

Contract (CMT) production

Contract production means a label has its own design and materials produced in another workshop. Some Merter workshops work on contract, others produce their own collections.

Ready-to-wear manufacturing

Ready-to-wear manufacturing covers businesses producing standard-size garments from standard patterns. Bulk production, standard sizing and ready patterns are its core features.

Drop

A drop is releasing a collection in parts at set intervals instead of all at once. Boutiques introduce new styles with this method.

Season

A season is the period for which collections are planned (spring-summer, autumn-winter). In wholesale clothing production and buying happen one period before the selling season.

Stock code (SKU)

A stock code identifies a product's style, colour and size. Wholesale orders use the manufacturer's stock code to ensure the right item is delivered.

Wastage

Wastage is the share of material that becomes unusable during cutting and production. The wastage allowance is added to the unit price when fabric cost is calculated.

Consignment

In consignment the goods remain the supplier's property until sold, and unsold items are returned. It is a model that lowers stock risk for the boutique.

Overstock

Overstock is unsold product at the end of a season. Wholesale buyers purchase overstock at lower prices, but style and colour options are limited.

Lookbook

A lookbook is a catalog presenting a collection through styled visuals. Manufacturers present their seasonal collection in this form.

FOB / EXW delivery

FOB and EXW are export delivery terms. With EXW the buyer collects the goods at the manufacturer's address; with FOB the manufacturer delivers to the port of departure. Cost comparison depends on this term.