How to sample-test corporate merch — Poland workflow
A 4-stage sampling protocol that catches colour drift, fabric weight, print abrasion, electronic safety and packaging fit before committing to a 5 000-unit production run from our Warszawa hub.
Stage 1 — Blanks (Days 1–3)
Plain unbranded blanks shipped to your office in Poland. Verify fabric weight (gsm), hand-feel, fit, colour against Pantone book. For hardgoods: weight, dimensions, finish quality. Cost: 0–50 PLN equiv per blank, free for orders >1 000 units committed.
Stage 2 — Strike-off proof (Days 4–8)
One physical sample with your logo on the final substrate, real production line, real ink/thread. Confirms Pantone match, registration, embroidery density. Strike-off ships via InPost / DPD / DHL next-day to your Poland address. Cost: 35–80€, applied to final bulk invoice.
Stage 3 — Pre-production sample (Days 8–14)
Full kitted sample: branded item + custom packaging + insert + label-pack as it will ship. Tests full unboxing experience. Recommended for orders >500 units, high-stakes campaigns. Cost: 80–250€, applied to bulk.
Stage 4 — Lab tests (when needed)
SGS / TÜV / Intertek and Polish Łukasiewicz network reports for REACH SVHC, EN 71-3, OEKO-TEX, CE/EMC, RoHS, Martindale abrasion, ISO 105 colour fastness. Lead time 5–10 working days, cost 150–800€ per report.
Sign-off and bulk go-ahead
Each stage closes with email sign-off. Production pauses until "APPROVED" lands. Sign-off window 3 working days. After final sign-off we ramp into bulk production within 24 h at the Warszawa hub.
FAQ — sample testing
Skip the strike-off?
For repeat reorders of an approved SKU yes. For new SKUs or critical brand colours we strongly advise against skipping.
Samples count toward MOQ?
No — samples are produced on a separate run. Strike-off and PPS offset against the final invoice.
Multiple variants?
Yes — A/B of placement, colour, fabric. Cost per sample. Max 3 variants per SKU.
Lab tests mandatory?
Mandatory for EN 71 (toys), CE (electronics) and procurement-audited buyers. Optional but recommended for new blends.
Sample fails?
We re-run the strike-off at our cost up to 2 attempts. If artwork or substrate changes are needed we re-quote.