Our Service for Sampling Custom Apparel & Branded Merchandise
We encourage sampling wherever it helps you make confident decisions — especially for new products, new designs, campaign merchandise or first-time orders. Sampling allows you to assess fit, feel, quality and suitability before committing to a full production run.
Because sampling still involves time, handling and (in many cases) production setup, samples are usually charged. We aim to keep this fair, transparent and clearly explained.
Types of Samples Available
We offer two types of samples, depending on what you need to review:
1. Undecorated Samples (Blank Products)
Undecorated samples are most commonly used to check:
- base product quality
- fabric, fit and sizing
- colour and overall suitability for your intended use
Undecorated Sample Costs
Undecorated samples may be ordered at the applicable minimum order quantity unit price, plus shipping.
If suitable for your project, undecorated apparel samples may be returned within 2 weeks for use in your production order and the applicable sample costs will be credited toward your production order.
For non-apparel items such as water bottles, pens or other promotional merchandise, unless supplied from our sample library, these items are not returnable for use in a production order.
Showroom Sample Library
If the required sample (apparel or other merchandise) is available from our showroom sample library:
- the sample may be ordered and returned within 2 weeks
- a refund will be issued upon return, excluding shipping costs
Availability of showroom samples varies by product, size and colour. Please check with us first if you’re looking for something specific.
Undecorated Sample Lead Times
As a guide for undecorated samples, lead time is generally 1–3 business days, depending on whether the sample is available in our sample library or needs to be ordered in, excluding shipping time.
We’ll always confirm availability and timing before proceeding.
2. Decorated (Pre-Production) Samples
Decorated samples — also known as pre-production print samples — allow you to review:
- artwork placement and scale
- print or embroidery quality
- colour reproduction on the chosen product
These samples are particularly useful for complex artwork, branded apparel or uniform programs, campaign merchandise and experiential activations, and projects requiring internal approvals or stakeholder sign-off.
Decorated Sample Lead Times
As a guide for decorated (pre-production) samples, lead time is generally 8–10 working days from order confirmation, plus shipping time.
Timelines may vary depending on the product, decoration method and current production workload. We’ll confirm timing before commencing.
Pricing for Decorated Samples
Decorated samples are available from:
- $150 + GST per sample
- plus applicable setup fees (for example, screen setup or embroidery digitising)
Why Setup Fees Apply
Producing a decorated sample involves much of the same preparation as a full production run. Setup fees cover the time and materials required to prepare your artwork for printing or embroidery.
Setup Fees on Production Orders
Setup fees will not be charged again on the production order provided that:
- no further setup is required, and
- for screen printing, the order proceeds to production within 6 months of the pre-production sample
If artwork, placement or production method changes, additional setup may be required.
Pre-Production Samples for Custom / Indent Orders
For custom-made or indent orders produced offshore, we always allow for a pre-production approval stage before bulk manufacturing proceeds.
Depending on the product type, order size, timelines and production requirements, this may involve:
- a physical pre-production sample, or
- detailed photos or video of the pre-production sample for approval
We’ll advise the most appropriate approval method for your project and confirm this during the quoting and production planning stage.
This process helps ensure product specifications, branding and overall quality are approved before full production, particularly for larger orders, custom designs or longer lead-time projects.
Sampling costs and lead times for custom / indent order are generally included in the cost and lead times agreed during the quote confirmation phase of your order.
Multiple Samples & Sample Cost Flexibility
Where more than one sample is required (for example, different sizes, colours or designs), or for larger bulk orders or ongoing programs, pricing may be flexible.
In some cases, we may be able to partially or fully credit sample costs (undecorated or pre-production samples) as part of the overall project. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis and will always be discussed with you in advance.
Please contact us to discuss your requirements and we’ll advise the most practical approach.
Why We Recommend Sampling
Sampling helps to:
- reduce risk
- avoid surprises
- ensure brand accuracy and quality expectations are met
- streamline approvals, particularly for corporates, clubs and not-for-profits
While sampling does add a small upfront cost, it often saves time and expense later — especially on larger or time-sensitive projects.
In Summary
- Undecorated samples are ideal for checking fit, fabric and base product suitability
- Decorated samples allow approval of artwork, placement and print quality before full production
- Some samples are returnable or creditable, depending on the product type
- Setup fees may apply to decorated samples but can often be reused on the production order
Ready to Request a Sample?
If you’d like to request a sample or discuss the best option for your project, please contact us with:
- the product you’re considering
- whether you need an undecorated or decorated sample
- quantities and sizes (if known)
- any artwork or timing considerations
Our team will guide you through the most practical next step.