There is no useful universal unit price. A meaningful quotation starts with the cap construction, materials, artwork, quantity, packaging and delivery destination. Similar-looking products can require different materials and operations.
1. Construction and fit. Panel count, crown structure, brim shape, closure, seam tape, sweatband and size range all affect materials and labour. Reference images help, but construction details should be written into the specification.
2. Materials. Fibre composition, weave or knit, weight, colour, performance finish and documentation requirements influence cost and availability. Custom-dyed or specially sourced materials may have their own minimums.
3. Decoration. Artwork size, stitch count, colour count, number of placements and technique affect the operation. Patches and badges introduce additional materials and attachment steps. Provide artwork and dimensions for an accurate review.
4. Trims and branding. Closures, buckles, eyelets, labels, hangtags and specialty components can have supplier minimums and separate lead times. State whether branded or custom-developed trims are required.
5. Quantity and colourways. Quantity affects material usage, setup and production efficiency. Splitting an order across colours or designs may change material minimums and setup requirements, so ask for pricing at the actual quantity breakdown.
6. Sampling, testing and inspection. Sample development, revisions, product tests, third-party inspection and destination-specific documentation should be identified early. Their scope and charges depend on the project.
7. Packaging and delivery. Polybags, inserts, cartons, retail packaging, labeling and shipping terms all affect the total cost. Compare quotations using the same incoterm and destination.
A practical RFQ checklist. Include construction, artwork files, colours, materials, sizes, quantity by design and colour, branding, packaging, testing needs, destination and target timing. Request a written quotation showing what is included and any assumptions.