Clothing Manufacturing Cost Calculator
Model apparel production batch economics across tech packs, sample grading, bulk CMT rates, tech inspections, import duties, and freight shipping.
Production Batch Size & Sampling
Direct Unit Production Costs
Apparel Batch Production Unit Cost Formula
Unit Cost = [ (Tech Pack + Sampling + Grading) / Batch Size ] + Bulk Fabric/Unit + Trims/Unit + CMT Sewing/Unit + Packaging/Unit + Freight & Customs Duty/Unit- Pre-Production Fixed Costs: Tech pack design ($400–$900), sample prototypes ($250–$600/sample), size grading ($150–$350). Amortized across batch volume.
- Bulk Fabric Procurement: Roll prices range $4.00–$14.00/yd for knits and woven cottons, yielding 25%–40% material savings over retail bolt cuts.
- Cut-Make-Trim (CMT) Tiers: Production runs of 100 units ($18–$28/unit) vs 1,000 units ($8–$14/unit) vs 5,000+ offshore ($4–$8/unit).
- Freight, Duties & Tariffs: Air freight ($4.50–$8.00/unit) vs ocean freight ($0.80–$1.80/unit) plus US Section 301/HTS import tariffs (8%–28%).
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
How to Use This Calculator
Assumptions & Limitations
- Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
- Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
- Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tech Pack and why is it required for manufacturing?
A Tech Pack (technical package) is the blueprint containing exact flat sketches, graded measurement specs, Bill of Materials (BOM), stitching tolerances, and label placements that factories need to produce your garment without errors.
How do minimum order quantities (MOQs) affect clothing unit costs?
Fixed setup costs (cutting dies, grading, machine threading) make small runs (50–100 pieces) cost 50% to 150% more per unit. Unit manufacturing costs drop dramatically once orders cross 300 to 500 units per colorway.
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