How to Plan a Custom T-Shirt Order for a Group

A group apparel order gets much easier when the decisions are made in the right order. Before asking for a quote, define who the order is for, what must be printed and when the finished items are needed.

Use this checklist for school, team, staff, organization, fundraiser or event apparel. Real Legit Goods prints custom apparel from Columbus for local customers and eligible projects across the United States.

1. Define the purpose and audience

Start with the reason for the order. Staff uniforms, spirit wear, event shirts and fundraiser merchandise have different priorities. Identify who will wear or buy the apparel, whether the order is internal or public and what the finished item needs to communicate.

A focused project is easier to price and easier for buyers to understand.

2. Estimate quantity and collect sizes

Provide a realistic estimated quantity even if the final count is not available yet. If you already have sizes, include them. Adult, youth and extended sizes can affect garment availability and the final quote.

For an open group sale, set a clear ordering window and decide how late size changes will be handled.

3. Choose the garment category

Tell us whether you need T-shirts, hoodies, crewnecks or another garment. If you have a preferred brand, fabric, fit or color, include it. If not, explain the intended use and budget so we can discuss an appropriate option.

Our custom apparel pricing guide provides realistic starting ranges without pretending every job is identical.

4. Finalize the artwork and print locations

Identify what should print and where: front, back, left chest, sleeve or another location. Count every print placement. A front-only order is different from a shirt with front, back and sleeve printing.

Send the largest artwork file available. Make sure you own the artwork or have permission to use it, especially for school marks, company logos, characters and licensed graphics. Review the artwork upload terms before submitting.

5. Set a real deadline

Share the date the finished apparel must be in hand, not only the event date. Leave room for quote review, artwork approval, garment availability, production and delivery or pickup.

Typical timing depends on the job and current production schedule. We confirm expected timing during the quote process; a date is not reserved until the project details are approved.

6. Decide how the order will be distributed

Choose whether one organizer will receive the full order, items will ship, or pre-approved local pickup is needed. Pickup is arranged in advance; this is not a walk-in retail location.

If buyers will place individual orders, explain the audience, ordering window and fulfillment plan when you request the quote.

7. Review the quote as a complete plan

A useful quote should align the garment, quantity, sizes, colors, artwork, print locations, timing and fulfillment approach. Review those details together before approving production. A low number is not useful if it leaves out a placement, size range or deadline requirement.

What to include in your quote request

• Your name and organization
• Garment type and preferred color
• Estimated quantity and size range
• Artwork or a link to the artwork
• Every print location
• Your in-hand date
• Budget range, if known
• Shipping, group distribution or pre-approved pickup needs

Use the custom apparel quote form to send those details. You can also review our custom apparel printing services in Columbus or learn how to prepare artwork for DTF printing.