As the fashion and apparel market in the United States continues to thrive, importing clothes from China has become a strategic move for many retailers, brands, and online sellers. Thanks to China’s mature manufacturing infrastructure, low production costs, and vast variety of suppliers, it remains the go-to destination for clothing sourcing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about importing clothes from China to the US — from finding suppliers and understanding shipping methods to managing customs and ensuring compliance with US regulations.
Why Import Clothes from China?
China is the world’s largest exporter of garments — and for good reasons:
Chinese manufacturers offer lower production costs due to economies of scale.
From fashion-forward pieces to basic apparel, you’ll find everything from t-shirts and hoodies to dresses and sportswear.
Many suppliers have years of experience exporting to the US, ensuring familiarity with American standards.
Many suppliers offer quick production and delivery cycles, especially for popular items.
Step-by-Step: How to Import Clothes from China to the US
1. Find the Right Supplier
You can source clothing suppliers in two main ways:
Online Platforms:
- Alibaba
- Made-in-China
- Global Sources
- 1688.com (requires Chinese language or agent help)
Trade Shows:
- Canton Fair (Guangzhou)
- CHIC – China International Fashion Fair
Tip: Always request samples before placing a large order to check quality, fabric, stitching, and sizing accuracy.
2. Verify the Supplier
Before doing business, verify:
- Business license and registration
- Export license
- Factory audit reports
- Customer reviews or trade history
Working with a sourcing agent or third-party inspection company can help minimize risks.
3. Understand US Clothing Import Regulations
Importing apparel into the US is subject to specific regulations:
Labeling Requirements:
- Country of Origin: Must say “Made in China”
- Fiber Content: Percentage of materials used
- Care Instructions
- Manufacturer or Importer Name
These are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Children’s Clothing:
Requires additional CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) compliance, such as lead content and flammability standards.
4. Choose the Right Shipping Method
| Shipping Method | Delivery Time | Best For | Cost Level | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | Urgent or medium-sized shipments | High | Fast, reliable, widely available | Expensive for bulky or heavy cargo |
| Sea Freight | 25–35 days | Large, non-urgent bulk orders | Low | Cost-effective for volume, ideal for bulk goods | Slower, requires customs and port handling |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 3–7 days | Samples or small orders | Very High | Door-to-door service, handles customs | High cost, limited weight and volume |
| Rail Freight (via Europe, then sea/air to US) | 18–25 days | Not common for US; hybrid route | Medium | Faster than sea, cheaper than air | Complex routing, limited access to US directly |
Note: Sea freight is usually the most common method when importing large volumes of clothing from China to the US. For smaller, time-sensitive orders or samples, air or express courier is preferred.
5. Customs Clearance in the US
To clear customs in the US:
- Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
- Provide the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Bill of Lading
- Pay import duties and taxes
Customs Duties for Clothing:Rates range from 0% to 32% depending on:
- HS code (Harmonized System code)
- Material (cotton, synthetic, wool, etc.)
- Gender (men’s, women’s, children’s)
Use the USITC Tariff Database to check exact duties.
You may also need to file an Entry Summary (CBP Form 7501) or hire a US customs broker to manage this.
6. Calculate Your Total Landed Cost
Break down the full cost:
| Cost Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Cost | Quoted by supplier (FOB or EXW) |
| Freight Cost | Air or sea shipping charges |
| Customs Duties | Based on HS code and item specifics |
| Customs Broker Fees | Optional, but useful for complex imports |
| Delivery to Warehouse | Last-mile transport within the US |
Always plan with a margin for unexpected charges, such as inspections or demurrage at port.
Tips to Successfully Import Clothing from China
- Order Samples: Don’t assume quality; always check!
- Inspect Before Shipping: Use third-party inspection services like QIMA or SGS.
- Negotiate Terms: MOQ, payment terms (usually 30% upfront, 70% before shipment), and lead times.
- Stay Updated: US tariffs on Chinese goods may change — always check with CBP or your customs broker.
Common Challenges
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Communication & Time Zone Gaps | Use WeChat or hire bilingual agents |
| Sizing Differences | Send US sizing charts and sample templates |
| Shipping Delays | Buffer for delays, especially during holidays |
| Customs Clearance Issues | Work with experienced customs brokers |
Conclusion
Importing clothes from China to the US can be a profitable and scalable business — if done right. With the right supplier, proper documentation, and careful logistics planning, your apparel brand or retail business can thrive in the competitive US market.
Whether you’re an Amazon seller, boutique owner, or online entrepreneur, sourcing garments from China gives you access to a wide variety of fashion products at a competitive price.
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FAQ:
Q1:Do I need a license to import clothes into the US?
No import license is required, but you need an EIN and must comply with US labeling and safety regulations.
Q2:How much are import duties on clothing?
Duties range from 0% to 32%, depending on the item’s HS code and material.
Q3:What’s the best shipping method for clothing from China to the US?
For large orders, sea freight is cost-effective. For fast delivery, use air freight or express courier for small shipments.
Q4:Can I use Alibaba to import clothes?
Yes. Alibaba is one of the most common platforms. Always verify suppliers and order samples.
Q5:What is the MOQ for clothing manufacturers in China?
Usually 100–500 pieces per design or color, depending on the factory.
Q6:Do I pay GST on imported goods from China?
In the United States, there is no GST (Goods and Services Tax). However, you are responsible for import duties and customs fees. If you are in countries like Australia or Canada, GST does apply, and the rate depends on the country’s specific regulations.
Q7:What items are exempt from import duty?
In the US, certain low-value shipments (typically under $800 USD) may be exempt from import duty under the Section 321 de minimis rule. Additionally, some items may be duty-free under specific Free Trade Agreements, though most clothing items from China are not duty-exempt and are subject to standard tariffs.