Find answers to our most common questions below. Still need help? We're just a message away.
DESIGN LAB
For best results, submit vector files in AI, EPS, or PDF format (with text outlined). High-resolution PNG files (300 DPI or higher) also work. JPEG files can work for DTF printing but are not reccomended for screenprinting or embroidery. Do not submit logos copied from websites, as they are almost alwyas too low resolution for print.
No problem! We can help create what you're looking for. We require design files in order to provide an accurate quote, as final pricing depends on artwork size, colours, and print locations. Note that graphic design and logo creation services are billed at an hourly rate.
Yes, mockups are provided over email for all orders over 12 pieces, and are sent to your email for approval once your order is confirmed. They show layout and placement for your design. For exact colour accuracy, we recommend Pantone matching.
Yes. CCA provides a digital proof for approval before any order over 12 pieces goes into production. Production does not begin until you have approved the proof. Please review proofs carefully, as changes after approval may affect turnaround time.
While our Design Lab is a great tool for visualizing your product, placement and sizing in the virtual mockup are not 100% accurate. For the most reliable reference, please use the exact dimensions of your artwork rather than relying solely on the on-screen preview.
When we move into production, we match your design based on the specified dimensions—not the visual scale shown in the mockup. This ensures your final product is sized exactly as intended.
For colour matching, the only way we can guarantee an exact match is if you provide Pantone colour codes when placing your order. If your screen print order arrives and the colours don’t look right, please send us a clear photo showing the issue. We’ll review it against your approved mockup and artwork to see what happened and how we can help.
For blurriness, we do our best to catch low-quality files, but for one-off orders, please make sure you upload high-resolution artwork so your final print looks sharp.
TURNAROUND TIMES & SHIPPING
Our standard turnaround times from the date your artwork is approved are:
- 1-12 pieces: 5-7 business days
- 12+ pieces: 7-10 business days
- Sock orders: 3-4 weeks
- Jerseys orders: 5-6 weeks
Yes, if you have a tight timeline, let us know before your order is placed. Rush production is available depending on our current schedule and order size. Call us directly at (905) 518-0660 to discuss your deadline. Note that proofs also depend on how quickly you confirm designs and complete payment.
We can usually guarantee our production timeline, but once its in the courier's hands, we can't control delivery delays. We'll send tracking info once it ships.
Yes! CCA ship Canada-wide. Shipping is calculated at checkout. Free shipping on Canadian orders over $400 (with the exception of remote locations). Our production facility is located in Concord, Ontario.
We primarily ship with UPS and Canada Post to ensure fast and reliable delivery. At checkout, you'll see live rates for UPS only. If you'd prefer Canada Post, just send us an email before placing your order. We're happy to help with an alternative shipping option based on your location and timeline.
Yes, we ship worldwide! International options should appear at checkout and rates are based on weight, size and destination. If you do not see an option for your location please reach out to us!
Yes! Local pickup is available at our facility at 82 Corstate Ave, Concord, ON L4K 4X2. We are open Monday to Friday, 10am-6pm. Once your order is ready, we'll email you with pickup instructions. Please wait for that notification before coming in.
Once your order ships, you'll get an email with a tracking number from the selected carrier so you can follow your package every step of the way.
DECORATION METHODS
We offer screen printing, embroidery, direct-to-film (DTF) printing, sublimation, and finishing. Screen printing is ideal for bulk orders with simple designs and bold colours. Embroidery is best for professional or corporate looks on polos, hats, and outerwear. DTF printing is perfect for full-colour, photo quality, or complex designs on any quantity, including single pieces. We also offer socks and live printing events!
Screen printing uses ink pushed through a mesh screen directly onto fabric. It's durable, vibrant and cost-effective for larger runs of the same design. DTF (direct-to-film) printing transfers a full-colour printed film onto the garment using heat. It has no setup fees, works on any quantity, and handles complex or photographic artwork that screen printing can't. For orders of 24+ pieces with a simple design, screen printing is usually more economical. For small quantities or detailed artwork, DTF is the better choice.
Embroidery stitches your design directly into the fabric using threead, creating a textured, premium look. It's the preferred decoration method for corporate uniforms, polo shirts, hats, jackets, and workwear where a professional appearance is important. Embroidery is durable, washable, and gives a high-end feel that printed methods can't replicate. No minimum order required.
Everything from t-shirts and hoodies to hats, outerwear, jackets, tote bags, journals, bottles, and more. If there is anything you are looking for and don't see on our site, please reach out. We work with a broad catalogue of garments and can often source what you need.
Yes! Pricing depends on the design and location count.
Yes! Please request this before placing your order to ensure your logo/design can be achieved in specific colours, effects and/or print techniques. Additional costs will apply.
You can either place your full order online through our Design Lab or email us your artwork and details such as quantity, product type, print specs and your logos/designs.
We are not a contract shop, so we do not accept outside garments.
Yes! At CCA, we can print using water-based and discharge inks, which are more eco-friendly than standard plastisol. These options produce a softer feel and have a lower environmental impact, but they’re not our default, so please let us know when placing your order if you’d like to use them.
We also offer a wide range of sustainable garment styles right on our website, including organic cotton, recycled fabric blends, and other eco-conscious materials. Look for these in our catalogue or ask our team to help you select the best option for your project.
To keep your custom items looking their best:
For Screen Prints & DTF Prints: Wash inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach or harsh detergents. Hang to dry or tumble dry on low heat—high heat can damage prints. Do not iron directly on the print.
For Embroidery: Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Air dry when possible, or tumble dry low. Avoid high heat and bleach. If ironing is needed, use a low setting and a pressing cloth over the embroidery.
Following these tips will help your custom products stay vibrant and last longer.
ORDER MINIMUMS AND QUANTITIES
Most of our apparel products do not have a minimum order quantity. You can also find the minimum order quantity for each product in our Design Lab under the sizing inputs. Exceptions include:
1. Canadian/Union Made Products
2. Products from US suppliers such as Lane Seven and LA Apparel. These items may require minimums - ask us for specifics.
Promotional items vary by product:
1. Larger branded gifts can start at 1 piece
2. Smaller giveaways or bulk items typically have an MOQ between 12-100 units.
Patches, woven labels and stickers mostly have a MOQ of 100pc.
Absolutely. The more you order, the better your price per unit. We'll break it all down clearly in your quote.
Yes. We offer single-piece custom orders for embroidery and DTF printing with no setup fees. This is ideal for one-off gifts, samples, or individual team members who need a replacement piece. We'll always recommend the best decoration method for your quantity.
You can order in three ways: (1) Use our online Design Lab at canadiancustomapparel.com to design and order directly, (2) Request a custom quote for larger or more complex orders, or (3) email us at info@canadiancustomapparel.com to speak with our team. For corporate accounts, school orders, or team unifroms, we reccomend getting a custom quote so we can tailor pricing to your volume.
You can either place your full order online through our Design Lab, or email us your artwork and details such as quantity, product type, print specs, and your logos/designs to info@canadiancustomapparel.com
We accept all major credit cards, e-transfer, and corporate purchase orders for approved accounts. Payment is typically required before production begins. Contact us at (905) 518-0660 for corporate account inquiries.
We are not a contract shop, so we do not accept outside garments. We carry a wide range of blanks and can help you find the right product for your project.
CORPORATE, TEAMS & SCHOOLS
Yes! Corporate accounts are a core part of what we do at CCA. We supply branded uniforms, workwear, polos, outerwear, and promotional products for businesses of all sizes across the GTA and Canada. We offer volume pricing, dedicated account management, and consistent reorder programs. Contact us at (905) 518-0660 to set up a corporate account.
We collect orders during your store's open period. After it closes, we produce and ship the items. For year-round stores, we produce and ship as orders come in.
Yes! CCA builds and manages custom webstores for sports teams, schools, clubs, businesses and organizations. We create branded web stores for teams, schools, corporate programs, charities, and year-round merch lines. Your members can order their own items online and pay individually. We then handle the storefront, payments, production and shipping. Visit canadiancustomapparel.com/page/webstores and fill out our form to get started.
Yes, but they need to be ordered in advance and stocked (due to minimum order quantities). If you want water bottles or branded notebooks in your store, we'll help you plan ahead.
Yes! CCA produces custom jerseys for hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, football and other sports. Jersey orders typically have a turnaround of 5-6 weeks. We handle sublimated jerseys with player names, numbers and team logos. Contact us for team jersey pricing.
