Buyer resources

Tools for a better brief.

Use the planner and buying guides to turn an idea into a clear sourcing request.

Build a project brief How sourcing works

Project brief builder

A range is enough to start. Leave anything undecided blank, then copy the brief for your team or your inquiry.

Use this brief checklist

Copy these headings into your notes. A range or “To confirm” is enough for any undecided detail.

Project and recipients: What is the occasion or purpose, and who will use the merchandise?
Quantity: How many items are needed? Include any quantity tiers you want compared.
Budget: State the currency, amount or range, per-item or total basis, and costs it should cover.
Date and destination: Give the required arrival date and city/state or number of locations.
Branding: Note artwork readiness, logo colors and any decoration requirements.
Packaging: Describe packing preferences and any documents or approvals the project needs.

Choose by use, construction, and recipient

Category guides focus on the decisions that should be made before a product-specific quote.

Promotional bagsUse, construction, carrying experience, and decoration Custom drinkwareMaterial, insulation, lid, packaging, and product documentation Custom apparelGarment, sizing, decoration, proofing, and distribution Custom tech giftsCompatibility, power, battery documentation, privacy, and testing Power banksCapacity, watt-hours, output, ports, and required documentation Pens and office productsWriting experience, paper, decoration, kitting, and delivery Sustainable merchandiseClaims, materials, certifications, durability, and end-of-life questions Healthcare organizationsUse setting, claims, privacy, safety review, and distribution

Prepare the mark for the product

Decoration should be chosen for the artwork, material, shape, quantity, and intended finish.

Logo file formatsVector, raster, color, and proof review Screen print, DTG, or embroideryCompare apparel decoration methods Laser engraving or screen printingCompare marks on metal and coated products Pad printing or screen printingUnderstand small and irregular decoration areas Sublimation or screen printingCompare material compatibility, color, and coverage

Verify claims at the product level

Source transparency

When a guide uses third-party research or industry data, the source should be identified in the article. Product claims still require product-specific review.

Independent industry resources

PPAI and ASI publish industry reporting, education, and research.

Listing an organization does not imply endorsement, membership, or certification of openXpromo.

Before you rely on a catalog number

Are catalog prices final?

No. Displayed prices support initial comparison. Final pricing depends on the selected product, quantity, decoration, setup, packaging, freight, availability, and project requirements.

How far in advance should I request a quote?

Timing varies by product, decoration, proof approval, quantity, destination, supplier capacity, and freight. Share the required arrival date with the first inquiry.

Can openXpromo confirm certifications or compliance documents?

Document availability is product-specific. Include the exact requirement and destination in the inquiry so it can be checked for the selected item and production route.

How do I get an applicable quote?

Include the product or use case, quantity, artwork, decoration, packaging, delivery destination, required arrival date, and any documentation requirements.

Product added to quote list