MHQ Hoodies
If you’re planning to purchase T-shirts in bulk in 2026, you’ll likely want to know how much it costs to produce a custom T-shirt in China.
Using the following order scenario as an example—assuming you need to place a small-batch order of 100 T-shirts featuring an embroidered logo (5 cm x 5 cm) and made from 220 g/m² combed cotton fabric (100% cotton)—this article will provide a detailed cost estimate.
As of March 2026, the estimated cost of producing a single T-shirt at a garment factory in Dongguan, Guangdong, China, ranges from $6.23 to $8.41 (calculated at an exchange rate of 1 USD to 6.9 CNY). This cost typically covers fabric, trims, processing, printing, embroidery, and factory operating expenses.
Since a 100-piece order is considered a small-batch order, the unit price is expected to be 15%–25% higher than for large-batch orders, as fixed costs such as sample production, pattern making, and adjustments must be allocated across a smaller quantity.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the cost structure:
Cost Breakdown:
| Cost Item | Estimated Cost (RMB/Unit) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Cost | 21 – 28 RMB | This is the core cost, accounting for 50%-70% of the total. The 220 GSM combed cotton you specified is a mid-high range fabric. Based on current market prices, the fabric costs around $2.8 – $3.5 USD per kg. With an average T-shirt weighing 0.25kg, this brings the fabric cost within the estimated range. |
| Processing Fee | 8 – 10 RMB | Includes cutting, stitching, and other procedures. Since this is a small batch, the efficiency of mass production isn’t available, thus driving up the per-unit cost. Skilled sewing workers in Dongguan earn monthly salaries ranging from 5000 to 12,000 RMB, which directly impacts the processing cost. |
| Printing Cost | 3 – 5 RMB | A single print, typically done via silk screen printing. This is a common method for small batches, which requires a setup fee that is shared across the 100-piece order. |
| Embroidery Cost | 4 – 6 RMB | For a 5cm x 5cm embroidered logo, though small, it still requires digital embroidery setup and production, incurring a setup fee. This fixed cost is spread across the 100 units, making the embroidery cost higher per T-shirt. |
| Accessories & Packaging | 2 – 3 RMB | Includes main labels, wash labels, hangtags, plastic bags, and packaging cartons. |
| Management & Other | 5 – 6 RMB | Covers factory rent, utilities, equipment depreciation, as well as costs for embroidery setup, sample making, short-distance shipping, taxes, and other miscellaneous expenses. |
The following are key factors that affect pricing:
Quantity: Orders of fewer than 100 pieces are typically considered “trial orders” or small-batch orders. However, such orders do not benefit from economies of scale, which means the unit price will be higher than for large-volume orders.
Confirm setup fees: When requesting a quote, be sure to confirm whether the setup fees for printing and embroidery are included in the unit price mentioned above or charged separately. If these fees are billed separately, the initial investment will be higher, but subsequent orders will only require payment of production costs.
Compare Multiple Suppliers: Given the relatively small order size and the involvement of custom printing and embroidery, we recommend contacting multiple factories to obtain quotes. Having a clear understanding of all costs, including setup fees, before placing an order will help you avoid unexpected expenses.
We hope this cost breakdown helps you better manage your budget. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at any time!