Mexico vs. China vs. USA comparison
| Factor | Mexico | China / Asia | USA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical MOQ | 300 units per style at Swimwear.mx | Often 500-1,000+ units | Often lower, but limited capacity |
| Sample lead time | 2–4 weeks | 3–6 weeks | 2–5 weeks |
| Bulk lead time | 6–10 weeks | 8–14 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Shipping time to US | 2-5 day ground shipping from Tijuana to many US destinations | 2-6 weeks by ocean freight | 1-5 days domestic ground |
| Tariffs / duties | USMCA/CUSMA duty-free when documentation requirements are met | Duties and tariff exposure vary by category | No import duty, higher domestic cost |
| Freight cost | Lower than transpacific freight for many US brands | Higher ocean/air freight exposure | Low domestic freight |
| Time-zone overlap | Strong US/Canada overlap | Limited overlap | Strong overlap |
| IP risk | Closer oversight and easier visits | Long-distance oversight | Close oversight |
Landed cost matters more than sewing price
A low ex-factory price can become expensive once ocean freight, duties, delays, inventory exposure, sampling cycles, and missed launch windows are included. Mexico gives North American brands a shorter path between product approval, bulk production, and replenishment.
When China may still make sense
China can make sense for very high-volume, stable programs with long planning cycles and established freight operations. Mexico is usually stronger for brands that need speed, flexible runs, time-zone communication, and lower inventory risk.