CMT Clothing Factories: Cut, Make & Trim Factory Directory

What is a CMT clothing factory?

A clothing factory produces clothes or fashion accessories. Factories come in a variety of sizes, from small sewing shops to large-scale industrial facilities. Clothing production is the manufacturing process by which design concepts are made into actual garments.

The Apparel Search Company provides a wonderful database of clothing factories from around the world. Why have the headache of sourcing buttons, threads, waistband and more? Let the factory source the trim components so that you can buy a complete garment.

If you need additional assistance with garment sourcing or production, contact our Production Services Department. We specialize in the production of clothing and fashion accessories. In addition to sourcing your factories, we can monitor your quality assurance programs and assist with the maintenance of on-time delivery.

Frequently asked questions about clothing factories

What does CMT mean in clothing manufacturing?

CMT stands for cut, make and trim. A CMT factory cuts the fabric from your patterns, sews the garments together, adds trims such as buttons, zippers and labels, and finishes and packs the product. In its strictest sense, you supply the design, patterns and materials, and the factory supplies the labor, equipment and know-how.

What is the difference between CMT and full-package production?

With full-package production (sometimes called FOB), the factory also sources the fabric and trim components and delivers a complete garment, so you manage fewer suppliers. CMT gives you more control over materials and costs but more sourcing work. Many factories offer both, so confirm which service you are being quoted.

How do I find the right clothing factory for my product?

Start with the product type. Factories tend to specialize, for example in knits or wovens, denim, lingerie or outerwear, so browse the category that matches your garment. Shortlist several factories, check our countries directory to compare sourcing locations, then request quotes and samples before you decide.

What should I ask a clothing factory before placing an order?

Ask about minimum order quantities, lead times, how sampling works and what it costs, what the price includes (trims, labels, packing), payment terms and production capacity. Ask for references from other clients and for any compliance certifications they hold. Get the answers in writing.

What is a minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

A minimum order quantity is the smallest amount a factory will produce per style or color. It varies widely by factory, product and materials. Smaller runs are often possible, but they usually cost more per piece, so ask each factory what flexibility it offers.

How can I check quality before and during production?

Approve a pre-production sample first, then arrange inspections during and after production, and test materials where needed. Our quality testing page explains the options and lists companies that can help.

How do I know a factory treats its workers responsibly?

Ask about social compliance audits and visit the factory or send a representative where you can. Read our resources on human rights, workplace safety and child labor in the clothing industry before you commit to a supplier.

Does Apparel Search endorse the factories in this directory?

No. Apparel Search is a directory that helps buyers begin their search, and a listing is not an endorsement or a guarantee of quality. Please research every factory yourself by checking references, ordering samples and, wherever possible, inspecting the facility.

How do I add my clothing factory to the directory?

Visit our Add Your Company page and submit your information. Factories can be listed by the product types they make.