Tech pack template for apparel: what every field means

A tech pack template provides the structure — but understanding what every field means is what separates a pack your factory can use from one that causes delays and incorrect samples.

Here's a complete breakdown of every field in a standard apparel tech pack template.

Header Section Fields

• Document Number: Unique reference ID (e.g. TP-2026-042). Used by factory and brand to reference this specific document. Increment with each new pack.
• Revision Number: Start at Rev 01. Increment each time you make significant changes. Always note what changed between revisions.
• Season/Year: Helps factories prioritise sampling schedules (e.g. AW2026, SS2027).
• Status: SAMPLE (for first samples) or PRODUCTION (confirmed for bulk).

Measurement Table Fields

Each measurement point should have a descriptive name and a note of where exactly it's measured. Common confusion points:

• Chest width: Measured 2.5cm below the armhole, half-chest (so multiply by 2 for full chest)
• Body length: From highest point of shoulder to hem, at centre back
• Sleeve length: From centre back neck to cuff (not from shoulder seam)
• Tolerance: Typically ±1cm on most points, ±0.5cm on collar heights

Fabric & BOM Fields

• Composition: Must be exact percentages. "80% Cotton 20% Polyester" — not "cotton blend"
• Weight (GSM): Grams per square metre. 150–180gsm = lightweight, 260–300gsm = midweight, 350–450gsm = heavyweight
• Weave/Knit Structure: Jersey, French Terry, Fleece, Piqué, Rib, etc.
• Finish: Enzyme wash, stone wash, brushed, peached, etc.

Construction Fields

• Stitch Type: 504 overlock (standard seam), 602 flatlock (activewear), 401 chain stitch (denim)
• SPI: Stitches per inch — 12-14 SPI is standard for most garments
• Seam Allowance: 1cm minimum, 1.5cm standard, 2cm+ for heavy fabrics

Using a tool like Apparo auto-populates all of these fields based on your garment type, so you're not starting from a blank template — you're reviewing and editing a professional first draft.