Importing fabric from China is one of the most common — and most efficient — ways to source textile materials, whether you are a garment factory, a trading company or a brand. This guide walks through the process from supplier search to delivery, and shows how to avoid the typical pitfalls.
Step 1 — Define your specification
Before contacting anyone, write down exactly what you need:
- Composition: e.g. T/R 65/35 polyester-viscose
- Construction: plain, twill, satin — and weight in gsm
- Width: 150cm or 170cm
- Colour: greige, piece-dyed shade, or yarn-dyed
- Quantity: trial metres vs container volumes
A complete specification gets you accurate quotes in one round instead of three.
Step 2 — Find and shortlist suppliers
Good channels for finding Chinese textile suppliers include B2B platforms (Alibaba.com, Made-in-China, Global Sources), industry directories and direct referrals. Shortlist 3-5 suppliers and compare them on: product match, export experience, factory documentation and communication quality.
Step 3 — Request samples
Always request physical samples before bulk:
- Fabric swatches to check hand feel, weight and colour
- Lab dips if you need a specific shade (usually a few days, may carry a small fee)
- Yarn samples for yarn programs — check count, twist and strength
Step 4 — Confirm MOQ and pricing
Clarify the minimum order quantity and the price ladder: trial order vs bulk price per metre. Confirm whether pricing is FOB or CIF, and its validity period (typically 10-15 days).
Step 5 — Payment terms
First orders commonly use 30% deposit, 70% against copy of shipping documents or a letter of credit. Be cautious with suppliers who demand full payment upfront.
Step 6 — Production and quality control
Agree on a production schedule and ask for a pre-shipment inspection report. A good supplier will inspect every roll against your specification, and many will send photos of the packed containers before loading.
Step 7 — Shipping and documentation
Your supplier handles export packing and documents (invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificates if needed). Choose sea freight for bulk orders or air freight for samples and urgent orders. Confirm the Incoterm so you know exactly which costs you pay.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Comparing quotes on different widths or blends — convert everything to price per square metre
- Skipping samples to save time — samples cost far less than a bad container
- Ordering from a trading company when you need mill pricing — ask who manufactures
- Not confirming gsm tolerance (±5% is standard)
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum quantity to import fabric from China?
MOQs vary by construction: from a few thousand metres for standard T/R fabric to more for custom weaves. Trial orders are widely supported.
How long does shipping take?
Sea freight to most major ports takes 25-45 days including production lead time; air freight takes 5-10 days.
Do I need an agent?
Not necessarily — many buyers work directly with mills. A freight forwarder helps with customs and documentation at the destination.
How do I start?
Send us your specification today — we are a T/R yarn and fabric manufacturer in Hebei, China, and will quote with samples plan within one working day.
Need T/R yarn or polyester viscose fabric? Send your specification — blend, count, weight and quantity — and get a quotation within one working day. Request a Quote