How to Send a Tech Pack to Your Manufacturer
How to send a tech pack to your manufacturer — formatting, communication tips, and what to expect after submitting your specifications.
Format your tech pack correctly
Most manufacturers prefer receiving tech packs as PDF files. PDFs preserve formatting across different devices, operating systems, and software versions. Export your tech pack as a high-resolution PDF with all images embedded.
Name your files clearly: include the style name, season, and version number. For example: 'SK-H001-Pullover-Hoodie-SS26-v2.pdf'. This helps both you and the manufacturer track documents as revisions occur.
What to include in your email
When sending a tech pack to a manufacturer for the first time, include context in your email:
- Brief brand introduction and product line description
- Number of styles you are quoting
- Target quantities per style and color
- Target delivery date
- Whether you need fabric sourced or will supply it
- Your budget range per unit if you have one
- Request for timeline and pricing response
What to expect after sending
After receiving your tech pack, a good manufacturer will review the specifications and come back with questions, clarifications, and a preliminary quote. This typically takes 3-7 business days.
Common manufacturer questions include fabric availability, minimum order requirements for specific trims, alternative suggestions for hard-to-source materials, and clarifications on construction details. Answer these promptly and update your tech pack accordingly.
Managing revisions
As you work through sampling, your tech pack will be revised multiple times. Maintain clear version control — always update the version number and date, and highlight changes from the previous version.
When sending revised tech packs, explicitly list what changed in your email. Do not assume the manufacturer will spot the differences. A simple 'Changes in v3: updated chest width measurement, changed rib composition to 95/5 cotton/spandex' prevents confusion.