Build the Brand. Make the Product. Get Discovered.

Drop 9 Brand Lab is a free education hub for independent streetwear creators. Learn how a clothing brand and business actually work, plan your product and pricing, and understand sourcing and manufacturing — including U.S. import tariffs and landed cost after the 2025 end of the $800 de-minimis exemption — so you can get ready to launch on Drop 9. Everything is taught in plain English and checked against official sources. Education only, not legal, tax, or financial advice.

What is Drop 9 Brand Lab?

A free web education hub that helps independent streetwear creators learn how to build, price, source, manufacture, launch, and grow a clothing brand.

Where should I manufacture my clothing?

It depends on landed cost — the factory price plus import duty, freight, and fees. Made-in-USA and nearshore (Mexico via USMCA) can be duty-free or fast; overseas may have lower factory prices but higher tariffs, especially since the $800 de-minimis exemption ended in 2025. Always compare landed cost, not sticker price, and verify current rates on the official USITC tariff schedule.

What do RFQ, MOQ, and GSM mean?

An RFQ is a request for quote you send a factory. MOQ is the minimum order quantity a factory will make. GSM is fabric weight — a light tee is around 180 GSM, a thick hoodie around 400 GSM.

Is Drop 9 Brand Lab free?

Yes. The education is free and teaches you how to build a streetwear brand step by step, then connects you to the Drop 9 marketplace when you're ready to launch.