A quote far below the others is not automatically a bad sign, but it usually means the factory has priced something different from what you meant. Before comparing prices, make sure every factory quoted exactly the same specification, delivery term and quality checks. Most large gaps are explained by one of these.

Fabric weight and fibre

Fabric is often the largest cost in a knit garment. Check the quoted fabric weight in grams per square metre, the fibre content, the yarn and the knit. A lighter fleece or a cheaper blend can lower the price a lot while still looking similar in a photo. Ask for the quoted weight to be measured with a named method such as ASTM D3776 on the sample.

Delivery terms

Compare the Incoterms rule each factory used. A price quoted on an EXW or FOB basis does not include the same costs as one quoted on a DDP basis. The ICC Incoterms 2020 rules define who pays for what, so convert all quotes to the same rule before comparing.

Trims, labels, packing and testing

Check whether zips, drawcords, labels, hang tags, polybags and cartons are included, and at what specification. Check whether laboratory testing and inspections are included, and what sampling plan the factory assumes. If you plan third-party inspection under ISO 2859-1, say so in the request for quotation.

Capacity and minimums

Ask whether the price depends on a higher minimum order, a longer lead time or a different colour count. Ask which production line would make it and whether any process is subcontracted.

Then send everyone a single, complete specification and ask for a revised quote. If the gap remains, order a pre-production sample from that factory and test it against the spec before deciding.

Ask each factory for references or past production of similar products, and check its payment terms. A very low price with a large deposit and little track record is a higher risk than the same price with a sample approval step and a balance paid after inspection. Keep the comparison in a single sheet so the final decision, and the reasons for it, are recorded for the next sourcing round.