HOW TO SET UP A SIMPLE EMPLOYEE APPAREL PROGRAM FOR SIZE ORDERING AND REORDERS

Introduction to Employee Apparel Programs

Creating a streamlined employee apparel program is a great way to foster team spirit and ensure your employees feel valued and unified. Whether you’re outfitting your team with custom shirts, polos, or outerwear, an organized approach to ordering sizes and handling reorders can save time, reduce waste, and make the whole process seamless.

Why an Employee Apparel Program Matters

Employee apparel programs help companies maintain a consistent brand image and provide workforce members with merchandise that fits properly, making them more comfortable and confident. These programs can range from simple one-time orders to ongoing systems that allow employees to reorder gear as needed.

Step 1: Assess Your Apparel Needs

Begin by determining the types of apparel you want for your team. Consider a variety of options such as custom t-shirts for casual days, custom polos for business casual environments, or even outerwear options like custom jackets for colder months.

Choosing the right apparel type will set the foundation for your program. Pick items suitable for your company culture, employee roles, and climate.

Step 2: Collect Employee Size Information

Proper fit is crucial. To collect size information efficiently, consider the following approaches:

• Send out a simple survey or form asking employees to specify their preferred sizes for each apparel type.
• Host a sizing event where employees can try on different sizes to ensure accuracy.
• Use standardized size charts from your chosen apparel provider to guide selections.

By accurately gathering employee sizes upfront, you’ll minimize returns and exchanges later on.

Step 3: Choose a Reliable Apparel Partner

Selecting the right custom apparel company is key for a successful program. Underground Printing offers extensive apparel options and printing methods, including screen printing, embroidery, and DTG printing. Working with a partner experienced in handling bulk orders and customizations will empower your program.

Look for services that offer:

• Bulk ordering options with competitive bulk pricing.
• Easy reordering processes and online portals to streamline future orders.
• Rush options like 2-day rush delivery for urgent needs.

Step 4: Implement an Ordering Process

Consider these strategies for handling the ordering and reordering workflow:

• Centralized ordering: Assign a single person or team to manage orders to maintain consistency and reduce errors.
• Online stores: Use a pop-up online store tailored for your company so employees can select sizes and place orders directly.
• Order tracking: Keep a database of employee sizes and order history to anticipate reorder needs and preferences.

These methods help ensure the right sizes are ordered and make reordering simple.

Step 5: Manage Inventory and Reorders

Decide if you want to keep an inventory of core items or operate on a just-in-time ordering system. Inventory can allow for quick replacements but requires management space and investment.

For reorders, encourage employees to submit requests regularly or set scheduled reorder times annually or bi-annually. This helps keep apparel updated and replaced as needed.

Step 6: Communicate Clearly with Employees

Transparency and clarity reduce confusion:

• Share sizing charts and apparel choices ahead of ordering.
• Provide deadlines for ordering and reordering.
• Explain how to request replacements or new items.

Use emails or a dedicated internal portal so employees stay informed and engaged.

Additional Tips for Success

• Offer a variety of styles or fits, including women’s t-shirts and youth options if applicable.
• Choose durable and comfortable fabrics like soft t-shirts or performance-oriented dri-fit t-shirts for active roles.
• Brand apparel with company logos through embroidery or screen printing to promote a professional look.
• Consider seasonal apparel such as custom hoodies or work jackets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I handle employees who are unsure about their size?

Provide sizing charts and, if possible, host an in-person or virtual sizing session. You can also order sample sizes for employees to try on before finalizing orders.

Can employees reorder items directly?

Yes, setting up a custom online store for your team allows employees to place reorder requests easily and independently.

What types of printing methods are best for employee apparel?

Screen printing is great for bulk orders with simple designs, embroidery offers a premium look for polos and jackets, and direct-to-garment printing is excellent for detailed, full-color artwork.

How do I keep track of sizes and orders?

An internal spreadsheet or database logging each employee’s size and order history works well. Many custom apparel companies also offer order tracking tools.

Conclusion

Setting up a simple employee apparel program doesn't have to be complicated. With clear steps to collect sizes, select quality apparel, manage orders, and communicate with your team, you’ll create a program that benefits both your employees and your brand. For assistance with selecting products or placing bulk orders, feel free to contact us at Underground Printing or visit our locations near you.

Ready to get started? Check out our get started page and bring your employee apparel program to life today!