Placing a first order at 10,000 pieces or more is a meaningful commitment. The cost of getting it wrong is far higher than the time it takes to confirm these seven items before you commit.
What Changes the Answer
A repeat order from a supplier you've already worked with needs less re-checking than a first order or a new specification. The checklist below is written for a first large order — the highest-risk, highest-value moment to get right.
The Pre-Order Checklist
Sample Approved
A physical sample matching your full specification has been signed off, not just a photo.
GSM Tolerance Stated
You know how much the bulk output can vary from the target GSM.
Shrinkage & Colourfastness Tested
The sample has been through at least one wash cycle.
QC Checkpoints Agreed
You know what is checked, and when, before the shipment leaves.
Packaging Confirmed
Bulk, retail-ready, or custom cartons, agreed in writing.
Lead Time Confirmed in Writing
A stated timeline for your specific order size, not just an estimate.
Payment & Production Terms Clear
You understand what is due at each stage of the order.
Where This Doesn't Apply
A first order at this scale is a poor place to skip steps to save time. The cost of a mismatched 10,000-piece shipment is far higher than the time spent confirming these seven items up front.
If a supplier can't state a GSM tolerance or describe their QC process when asked directly, treat that as a gap to resolve before ordering, not after.
Cotelle's Process for First-Time Orders
Every order through Cotelle moves through the same specification, sampling and QC structure this checklist describes — confirmed before bulk production begins, regardless of whether it's a first order or a repeat.
Planning a first bulk order? Send your specification and we'll confirm each of these before you commit.
Send Your Specification