Exporting Apparel from India

Exporting Apparel from India: A Checklist for First-Time Buyers

Export Guide12 min read•Posted on December 12, 2024

Pre-Export Preparation

1. Research the Market

  • Identify target country requirements (demand, style, seasonality, and price points).
  • Study trade restrictions, duty rates, and competitor sourcing regions.

2. Finalize Product & Specifications

  • Decide apparel category (casual wear, activewear, ethnic, kidswear, etc.).
  • Prepare a tech pack with fabric details, measurements, trims, colors, packaging instructions.

3. Select Reliable Suppliers/Manufacturers

  • Verify background: certifications (SEDEX, GOTS, ISO, Fair Trade).
  • Inspect sample quality & compliance with international standards.
  • Negotiate clear terms on MOQ, pricing, and lead time.
Pre-export preparation
Compliance and legal documentation

Compliance & Legal Documentation

1. Exporter Registration

  • Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) from DGFT (mandatory).
  • Register with EPCH / AEPC for export incentives.

2. Business & Legal Docs

  • GST registration (if applicable).
  • Company PAN, bank account with AD code (Authorized Dealer Code).

3. Buyer’s Import Regulations

  • Check labeling norms (fiber content, wash care, country of origin).
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards (e.g., CPSIA for US, REACH for EU).

Order & Production Process

1. Sampling & Approvals

  • Develop proto sample → fit sample → pre-production sample.
  • Obtain written approval on each sample to avoid disputes.

2. Production Monitoring

  • Conduct quality checks at inline, midline, and final stages.
  • Ensure AQL (Acceptable Quality Level) inspections before shipment.
Order and production process
Logistics and shipping

Logistics & Shipping

1. Packaging

  • Follow buyer’s packaging standards (poly bags, tags, cartons).
  • Use barcodes if required (UPC/EAN).

2. Logistics

  • Choose mode: sea (cheaper, longer) or air (faster, costly).
  • Agree on Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP) with the buyer.

3. Export Documentation

  • Commercial Invoice & Packing List.
  • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill & Certificate of Origin.
  • Inspection Certificate (if required) & Export Declaration Form (EDF).

Payment & Risk Management

1. Payment Terms

  • Secure methods: LC (Letter of Credit), Advance TT, or DP (Documents against Payment).
  • Avoid full credit for first-time orders.

2. Insurance

  • Marine insurance for goods in transit.
  • Credit insurance to safeguard against buyer default.

3. Foreign Exchange

  • Monitor exchange rates (USD/Euro vs INR).
  • Hedge currency risk for large orders.
Payment and risk management
After-sales relationship building

After-Sales & Relationship Building

1. Post-Shipment Follow-Up

  • Confirm receipt and buyer satisfaction.
  • Maintain communication to secure repeat orders.

2. Feedback Loop

  • Collect buyer feedback on quality, packaging, and timelines.
  • Use insights to refine processes for future exports.

Explore More Insights

Discover more articles about fashion design, manufacturing, and industry insights.

How We Translate Mood Boards Into Manufacturable Garments
Design8 min read

How We Translate Mood Boards Into Manufacturable Garments

Discover the intricate process of transforming creative mood boards into production-ready garments that maintain design integrity while meeting manufacturing standards.

Krazy Kreators TeamDecember 20, 2024
1,247
93
Why Print, Pattern & Prototyping Matters
Manufacturing6 min read

Why Print, Pattern & Prototyping Matters

Understanding the critical role of print placement, pattern accuracy, and prototyping in creating garments that not only look great but fit perfectly and function as intended.

Krazy Kreators TeamDecember 18, 2024
892
84
Bridging the Gap Between Designers & Factories: The Krazy Kreators Way
Manufacturing7 min read

Bridging the Gap Between Designers & Factories: The Krazy Kreators Way

How we solve the biggest disconnect in fashion: making design intent and factory execution speak the same language through dedicated project management and quality control.

Krazy Kreators TeamDecember 15, 2024
1,456
123

Ready to Transform Your Vision Into Reality?

Let's work together to bring your fashion vision to life with our comprehensive design and manufacturing services.