How do I start a uniform program for my company

There are plenty of reasons to start a uniform program at your company: safety, image and morale to name a few. But how do you start a uniform program at your company? It may seem like a lot of work, but it isn’t if you choose the right company to partner with. Here are the basics to get your uniform program started.

There are a few things you should figure out before you even contact potential uniform partners. First – get a headcount for how many people your company will have in uniform and write down how many days per week they work. This will allow potential partners to give you more accurate quotes.

You should also check to see if your company needs to follow any safety standards. Don’t worry if you don’t know right off the bat, your uniform partner should be able to point you in the right direction.

Another important thing to keep in mind is how will the uniform programs be paid for. Some companies use payroll-deduction while others pay for their team’s uniforms. Knowing this ahead of time will make things a lot easier on you once the program starts up.

Choosing a uniform provider means doing more than gathering a few quotes and picking the cheapest option. We’ve seen countless businesses do this in the past and end up being burned by bad service and price increases.

It’s important to get to know your potential uniform partners. In-person meetings are a good start because the uniform company can see your needs in person. They can make recommendations based on your company and processes. We also encourage potential customers to come tour our plant. That way they can meet more team members and see how their uniforms will be cleaned and sorted.

Like any business partnership, the most important thing is trust. Can you trust this company to carry out the service they promised to provide? If so, they’re probably a good fit. Be sure to consult online reviews and referrals as well before you make a decision.

Once you choose a uniform company, they’ll start doing the heavy lifting. Things like sizing team members, setting a delivery date, ordering uniforms and adding any necessary tags or emblems will be done for you.

It usually takes three weeks for new uniforms to arrive, so don’t expect your service to start as soon as you sign up.

You should also be sure to let your uniform provider know if you have any staffing changes between sizing and first delivery. That way they can save you some time and money — whether you added a new team member or lost one.

Be sure you and your uniform provider hash out how billing will work as well. Most companies offer credit card payments, COD and bank withdrawals. So pick the one that's right for you. Also be sure to note if separate departments need separate invoices for accounting reasons.

Most uniform companies will deliver all of your uniforms during your first delivery. For instance — if your team works five days per week, all 11 of their uniforms will be delivered on the first day.

Make sure your team knows to turn in all of their dirty uniforms on the next delivery. That way the service will work how it's supposed to, and your team will always have clean work clothes to wear.

Your first delivery is also your opportunity to meet your route service rep. Take the time to make sure they understand any special needs your company may have. They will be the person you can talk to about changes, concerns and anything else that may come up during your partnership.

Uniform programs are great for all businesses, but you need to make sure you have the details ironed out first. Picking the best uniform provider for you will ensure smooth sailing. Want to talk to us about our uniform service? Give us a call or fill out our contact form today!