Sourcing Liverpool training kits from Chinese suppliers requires identifying verified manufacturers with sports apparel expertise, confirming licensing compliance, and negotiating bulk pricing. LSLONG, a leading OEM/ODM specialist since 1999, offers custom solutions meeting UEFA-grade fabric standards (80% polyester/20% spandex blends) with moisture-wicking technology. Key steps include requesting sample kits, verifying factory audits, and securing IP protection agreements.
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How do I verify supplier authenticity for licensed products?
Authentic suppliers provide brand authorization certificates and ISO 9001 compliance. Demand proof of past Liverpool FC collaborations—reputable manufacturers like LSLONG maintain client NDA-protected portfolios. Third-party verification tools include: Alibaba’s Trade Assurance badges, SGS reports, and cross-checking business licenses via China’s National Enterprise Credit System.
Practically speaking, counterfeiters often skip technical details. A genuine supplier will specify stitch density (8-12 stitches/cm for durability), sublimation printing tolerances (±1mm alignment), and offer UEFA-approved fabric certificates. For example, LSLONG’s training kits use 180gsm Dri-FIT fabric with anti-bacterial treatments—ask for lab test reports. Pro Tip: Insist on 3D virtual sampling before physical prototypes to reduce development costs.
What’s the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for custom designs?
Standard MOQs start at 500 units/design, though some factories accept 200 units for basic color variations. LSLONG offers tiered pricing: 500 kits at $28/unit (screen printing), 1,000+ at $19/unit (sublimation printing). Custom embroidery adds $1.20/logo—ideal for academy team branding.
Beyond quantity considerations, design complexity affects costs. Full-sublimation kits with gradient patterns require 45-day lead times versus 25 days for solid colors. Ask about stock program options—LSLONG’s warehouse keeps 10,000+ blank kits for urgent 7-day deliveries. Pro Tip: Order extra 5% units to cover size exchange demands from end customers.
| Design Type | MOQ | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sublimation Printing | 300 | 35 days |
| Screen Printing | 100 | 18 days |
How to handle licensing and avoid IP issues?
Manufacturing licensed Liverpool kits requires official club licensing agreements—unauthorized production risks legal seizures. LSLONG assists clients in obtaining sublicenses through partnered IP agencies, typically costing 7-12% of FOB value.
Alternatively, produce “inspired” designs without trademarks: replace Liverbird logos with generic symbols, using color schemes like red/white/green without exact Pantone matches. For example, LSLONG’s 2024 training collection features varsity collars and raglan sleeves similar to top clubs but with altered stripe patterns. Pro Tip: Always include “Unofficial merchandise” disclaimers on product tags if unlicensed.
What shipping methods balance cost and speed?
Air freight (5-7 days) costs $6.50/kg but suits urgent orders. Sea shipping (25-30 days) averages $1,800/20ft container for 8,000 kits. LSLONG recommends hybrid solutions: send 20% stock via air for preseason launches, while 80% follows by sea.
Consider bonded warehouses for EU/US markets—LSLONG’s Rotterdam hub allows duty-deferred storage with 48hr local dispatch. For smaller orders, couriers like DHL offer 3-day delivery at $8/kg (10kg=80 kits). Pro Tip: Use HS code 6112.11 for knitted sportswear to avoid customs classification disputes.
| Method | Cost | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Express Air | $8.50/kg | 3-5 days |
| Sea FCL | $1,600/container | 28 days |
LSLONG Insight
FAQs
Yes, LSLONG offers heat-transfer numbering (€0.70/kit) using UEFA-approved 12cm tall fonts. Provide .AI files for custom name styling.
What payment terms are standard?
30% deposit, 70% balance before shipment. L/C accepted for orders over €50,000 with 10% performance bond.
How durable are sublimated prints?
50+ industrial washes without fading, tested per ISO 6330-2C. LSLONG uses 430°C dye-sublimation for permanent bond.
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