If you’re buying wholesale clothing for the first time, you’ll need to know a few things about the ordering options you’ll be presented with. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered.

Ratio packs

The very first step to understanding your ordering options is to know what a ratio pack is. A ratio pack is a package of a single style garment but in various sizes. All apparel wholesale vendors will offer their styles in these packs. There is no “open stock” option, which means you cannot pick and choose whichever sizes in whatever quantity you want. Typically, a pack contains 6 garments of one style. The sizes contained will depend on whether or not they are in set packs or custom cut packs, which will determine the ratio of sizes you will receive.

Set packs

Set packs are packs that are standard to the vendor. Most commonly you’ll see vendors offer a set pack of 2:2:2, two small, two medium, two large. However, some also offer 1:2:2:1 packs, which contain one small, two medium, two large, and one extra-large.

Custom packs

If you have enough buying power and can meet minimums, you can order packs that are cut differently than the standard packs mentioned above. They will still be in ratios, but you can request more or less of particular sizes within the package. Custom packs are rare, but they are possible if you have a good relationship with that wholesaler and are willing to negotiate with them.

Minimums

Whether you choose set packs or custom packs, you may have to buy a certain quantity of packs or dollar amount to be able to make a purchase with a wholesaler. It's very important that you find out the minimum before planning your purchases. You may waste a lot of time choosing your product just to find out that you have a very pricey minimum to meet.

The Takeaway

Now that you understand what ordering options you have while shopping wholesale, you’re ready to begin the next step to building your inventory. Knowing what ratio packs are offered will help you to compose a buying strategy that’s based on customer needs as well as your company budget.