Table of Contents
Introduction
Creating custom apparel for your team is a fantastic way to build unity, promote your brand, and reward employees. However, managing orders where each employee chooses their own size and style can feel overwhelming without the right system. At Underground Printing, we specialize in custom apparel and offer practical solutions to simplify this process.
Why Offer a Custom Apparel Pre-Order?
Offering a pre-order system allows employees the freedom to pick sizes and styles that best suit their preferences and needs. This flexibility improves satisfaction, decreases returns due to improper sizing, and streamlines your bulk ordering process. With bulk orders from Underground Printing, you also get great pricing advantages and quality assurance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Custom Apparel Pre-Order
1. Define Your Apparel Options
Start by deciding what apparel types you want to offer. Consider your work environment and seasonality:
- For warmer weather, explore our short sleeve t-shirts or tank tops.
- To stay cozy, browse options like custom hoodies, crewneck sweatshirts, or quarter zips.
- For a polished look, consider custom polos or business apparel.
You can even mix different types like soft t-shirts and custom jackets to cover various preferences.
2. Choose Styles and Colors
Offer a curated selection of colors and styles to avoid overwhelming your employees. Underground Printing carries a wide range of top brands and styles – from Bella+Canvas soft tees to Comfort Colors garment-dyed shirts. Decide whether you want classic cuts, v-necks, or trendy ringer tees. Limiting to 3-5 styles and colors can help streamline ordering and minimize variation complexity.
3. Provide Size Charts and Fit Guides
To help employees make confident choices, share size charts and fit information. Our website includes detailed sizing that covers men's, women's, and youth apparel. Consider hosting a sample fitting event or sharing guidelines on measuring for a perfect fit. This reduces the risk of returns or exchanges and ensures everyone orders their preferred size confidently.
4. Create an Online Pre-Order Form or Platform
Leverage an online ordering solution such as a pop-up online store or a simple form where employees can select:
- The specific garment (style and color)
- Their size
- Quantity (normally one per employee)
Underground Printing can help set up custom online stores for group ordering, making size and style selections easy and centralized.
5. Set Deadlines and Communicate Clearly
Ensure all employees know the pre-order deadline and the delivery timeline. Communicate expectations, provide reminders, and share resources such as FAQs about your screen printing, embroidery, or DTG options — depending on your chosen customization method.
6. Review Orders and Place Your Bulk Order
After the pre-order closes, compile all selections and place a bulk order with Underground Printing. Bulk ordering optimizes cost and ensures cohesive branding.
7. Delivery and Distribution
The apparel will be delivered together, ready for distribution. You can organize a group pickup or shipping directly to individual employees.
Tips for a Successful Pre-Order Apparel Campaign
- Keep choices manageable: Too many options can lead to delays and confusion.
- Use high-quality apparel: Consider offering popular brands and materials for comfort and durability.
- Involve employees early: Get input on styles or colors to boost excitement.
- Choose the right customization method: Screen printing offers vibrant, durable designs. Embroidery adds a professional stitched look, while DTG printing allows full-color imagery. Visit our pages on screen printing, embroidery, and direct-to-garment printing to decide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can employees mix different apparel types in their order?
Yes! Offering a range of apparel types allows employees to select what fits their style best. Just be sure to set clear choices upfront to manage order complexity.
How do I collect accurate sizing information?
Provide employees with detailed size charts and measuring instructions. Samples or a sizing guide session can be helpful.
What is the minimum order quantity?
Underground Printing offers flexible minimums depending on the product and customization method. For large teams, bulk orders often provide the best pricing.
How long does the custom printing process take?
Production time varies by method and order size. We offer options like 2-day rush delivery for faster turnaround when needed.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a custom apparel pre-order for employees to choose their own size and style is easier than you think when working with an experienced partner like Underground Printing. With thoughtful planning, clear communication, and leveraging our resources such as apparel collections and online store setups, you'll have your team looking sharp and unified in no time.
Ready to get started? Contact us through our contact us page to request a quote or learn more about custom apparel options tailored for your employees.