Question 1

What is our minimum order quantity (MOQ) for knitwear production?

Accepted Answer

Our minimum order quantity (MOQ) is 80 units per design, with a total PO minimum of $8,000 USD. This can be broken down into 4 sizes and 2 colorways. 
For larger orders, we can negotiate additional sizes and color variations.

Question 2

Due to capacity, you currently work only with established brands. Will you collaborate with startups or emerging designers in the future?

Accepted Answer

At present, we work exclusively with established fashion brands due to production capacity. This policy may be reviewed as our operations evolve.Our minimum order quantity (MOQ) remains one of the lowest among custom knitwear manufacturers. Brands that meet our current production requirements are welcome to contact us to discuss their project.

Question 3

How have the recent U.S. tariff changes affected imports from Peru?

Accepted Answer

As of April 2025, the United States applies a 10% tariff to imports from Peru. This duty is assessed by U.S. Customs at the time of importation and is the responsibility of the importer.Peru and the United States have maintained a Free Trade Agreement since 2009. However, the current tariff measures apply independently of that agreement, and future changes remain subject to U.S. trade policy.Despite these measures, Peru continues to be among the countries subject to the lowest U.S. tariff rates compared with many other apparel-exporting countries. As import regulations and tariff policies may change, we recommend that customers consult their customs broker or trade advisor for the most up-to-date information applicable to their shipments.

Question 4

Is it worth it for American brands to produce knitwear with Knit-Lab Peru?

Accepted Answer

Yes, producing knitwear in Peru is a beneficial option for American brands for several key reasons:

Lowest Tariffs Imposed : Peru is subject to a 10% tariff on all products imported into the United States, which is one of the lowest tariff rates compared to other countries. This makes Peru an attractive manufacturing option, as the 10% tariff is much lower than the rates imposed on goods from many other regions.
Proximity and Reduced Carbon Footprint: Peru’s close proximity to the U.S. reduces shipping times and transportation costs. The shorter distance also helps minimize the environmental impact of shipping, resulting in a lower carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.
Traceability and Transparency: Peru’s production processes are highly traceable, which is essential for brands that value ethical sourcing and transparency. American brands can track products from raw materials through to finished goods, ensuring quality and responsibility throughout the supply chain.
Time Efficiency: The geographical proximity between Peru and the U.S. leads to faster shipping and shorter lead times, enabling American brands to respond more quickly to market demands, reduce inventory costs, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Question 5

Where are your production operations and commercial offices located?

Accepted Answer

Our main office is in Lima, Peru, where we manage production and operations as a leading knitwear manufacturer. Additionally, we have a commercial hub in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, strategically positioned to serve our European clients. This presence allows us to offer better service and faster communication to our partners in the region.

Question 6

What types of knitwear do we manufacture?

Accepted Answer

As a specialized knitwear supplier, we focus exclusively on high-quality knitted garments. We do not handle fabric cutting and sewing textiles.
We produce a wide range of Peruvian knitwear, including:
Sweaters, cardigans, and dresses
Skirts, crop tops, and shorts
Vests, shawls, and scarves
Beanies and berets
We do not manufacture coats, gloves, socks, or shoes.
Our expertise extends across womenswear, menswear, and children's knitwear.

Question 7

What product categories do you manufacture beyond knitted garments?

Accepted Answer

In addition to knitted garments, our manufacturing capabilities include:Straw and raffia accessoriesHome textile products, including woven cushion covers, bed blankets, sofa throws, and table throwsKnitted scarves, wraps, and shawlsKnitted stuffed toys and cushions

Question 8

What are your lead times for knitwear production?

Accepted Answer

Swatches: 1.5 weeksSamples: 2–3 weeksProduction: 6–14 weeks*Lead time varies depending on the techniques used, order quantity, and yarn availability.

Question 9

What knitting machines, gauges, and techniques do you use in production?

Accepted Answer

Our production capabilities include industrial flat knitting machines in gauges 3GG to 12GG, enabling the manufacture of a wide range of knit structures, stitch patterns, and fabric weights.We also integrate handcrafted techniques where required by the product specification, including:CrochetHand stitchingHand weavingMacraméManufacturing methods are selected according to the technical requirements of each design, including yarn type, gauge, construction, and finishing specifications.

Question 10

What certifications and compliance standards does Knit-Lab Peru hold?

Accepted Answer

Knit-Lab Peru maintains certifications and recognitions related to product quality, ethical manufacturing, environmental responsibility, and labor compliance. These include:Fair Trade Certification (Comercio Justo Perú): Certification supporting compliance with fair trade principles and responsible business practices.The Woolmark Company – Sourcing Guide (LATAM): Listed as a sourcing partner in The Woolmark Company's regional supplier directory for Latin America.Buenas Prácticas Laborales 2024 – First Place: Awarded by the Peruvian Ministry of Labor in recognition of outstanding labor practices.Carbon Footprint Certification: Issued by the Peruvian Ministry of the Environment (MINAM) in recognition of greenhouse gas measurement and environmental management initiatives.Additional certifications and supporting documentation are available upon request or can be found on our certifications.

Question 11

Do you have an in-house design team, and do you offer tech pack creation services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Knit-Lab Peru has an in-house knitwear design team that provides technical product development support, including tech pack preparation, prior to sampling and bulk production.Our technical services include:Technical sketches: Flat garment drawings with construction details, stitch orientation, and design specifications.Measurement specifications: Size charts, fit specifications, and points of measurement (POM) for sample evaluation and approval.Size grading: Grading specifications to ensure size consistency across the production range.Technical documentation: Production-ready specifications covering materials, construction, labeling, and finishing requirements.Tech packs are developed according to the technical requirements of each project and serve as the reference document for sampling and production.

Question 12

What Incoterms do you use for international knitwear orders?

Accepted Answer

Our standard commercial term is EXW (Ex Works), under which the buyer is responsible for transportation, export, and import logistics.Upon request, we can assist with shipping coordination and facilitate freight quotations through international carriers and logistics partners, including DHL, UPS, and other global freight providers. Shipping arrangements remain subject to the agreed Incoterms and the requirements of each shipment.

Question 13

Does Peru have trade agreements that provide preferential tariff treatment for exports?

Accepted Answer

Peru has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with more than 60 countries and economic regions, including USA, Canada, the European Union, China, Japan, and South Korea.Depending on the destination country, product classification, and applicable rules of origin, these agreements may provide preferential or duty-free tariff treatment for qualifying products. Where applicable, Knit-Lab Peru provides the required Certificate of Origin and supporting export documentation to enable customers to claim the corresponding tariff benefits.

Question 14

Do you manufacture woven or cut-and-sew garments?

Accepted Answer

No. We specialize exclusively in custom knitwear manufacturing. We do not produce woven fabric or cut-and-sew garments.

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