Ordering uniforms for a whole team can feel daunting: different sizes, mixed garments, logo files and colour matching. If you're working out how to order branded workwear, the key is to plan sizes, garments and artwork before you place the order. Here's how to get it right first time.

Start with sizing

Workwear sizing often differs from high-street sizing, and fits vary between brands. Always check the size guide for each garment rather than assuming, and remember that workwear should allow for movement and, in winter, for layers underneath.

Where possible, order samples or a size range for staff to try before committing to a bulk order. Ask each person to try the actual garment, not a similar one from another brand, and collect sizes in writing. Personalised items often can't be returned once decorated, so check the returns policy and get sizes confirmed before production.

Match garments to roles and people

Think about fit and roles. Ladies' fit garments, tall leg lengths and generous sizes ensure everyone on the team is comfortable, not just the average. Browse our ladies' workwear for cuts designed to fit properly rather than simply scaled down.

Match garments to roles too. Office staff might need embroidered polos, while site teams need hi-vis clothing and safety boots with the ratings their risk assessment calls for. Remember that PPE such as hi-vis and safety footwear must be provided free of charge. Ask before adding logos to hi-vis, as a large logo can reduce the visible fluorescent area and affect the garment's EN ISO 20471 class.

Get your logo right

Supply your logo in the highest quality format you have. Vector files (such as .eps, .ai, .svg or a vector PDF) give the sharpest results for both embroidery and print. A low-resolution image copied from a website or social media usually won't reproduce well.

Decide on placement (left chest is the classic choice), and whether you want names, job titles or a large back print added. A few more points to check:

• Detail: very small text and fine lines can be hard to embroider, so a simplified version of your logo may work better at chest size.
• Colours: provide Pantone references if you have them, so thread and ink can be matched as closely as possible.
• Method: embroidery suits polos, fleeces and softshells, while print suits t-shirts and large designs. Our guide to embroidered vs printed workwear explains the trade-offs.
• Proof: always check and approve a proof showing size, position and colours before production.

Plan for reorders and new starters

Plan for the future. Choose garments from established ranges so you can reorder matching items as your team grows, and keep a note of sizes for each staff member.

A simple spreadsheet listing each person's garments and sizes saves time with every reorder and makes kitting out new starters quick. Decide how many of each item people receive and when they'll be replaced, so the uniform always looks consistent. Our new starter workwear and PPE checklist can help.

For larger or regular orders, our bulk buys and a trade account can make repeat ordering easier.

Quick answers

What file format do I need for logo embroidery?

A vector file such as .eps, .ai, .svg or a vector PDF gives the best results for both embroidery and print. If you only have a low-resolution image, ask your supplier whether it can be redrawn.

Where should a logo go on workwear?

The left chest is the most common position, as it's visible and looks professional. Large back prints suit softshells, hoodies and t-shirts where you want branding seen from a distance.

How do I find the right workwear sizes for my team?

Check each garment's size guide, as workwear sizing differs between brands and from high-street sizes. Where possible, order samples so staff can try garments on before you place a bulk order.

Ready to get started? Browse our embroidery and printing range, then send us your logo, garments and sizes through our embroidery and printing service page for a friendly, no-obligation quote.