How to Import Underwear from China: A Complete Guide for First-Time Buyers
📋 Direct Answer: Five steps: (1) supplier qualification — verify BSCI and OEKO-TEX on issuer databases, not PDFs, (2) product compliance — check target market regulations (CPSIA for US kids, GPSR/REACH + EN 14682 for EU kids), (3) payment — 30% deposit + 70% before shipment is standard, (4) sea freight — 25-35 days to Europe, 15-20 days to US, (5) customs clearance — prepare commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, COO, and OEKO-TEX certificate.
Importing underwear from China involves five steps: supplier qualification (verify BSCI/OEKO-TEX), product compliance (check your market’s regulations), payment (30/70 standard), sea freight (15-35 days), and customs clearance. Total cost adds 15-25% above FOB for most markets.
Importing underwear from China is a well-established supply chain, but first-time buyers face a learning curve. From supplier selection to customs clearance, this guide walks you through the entire import process.
1. Supplier Qualification
Key Insight: Importing underwear from China involves five sequential steps: supplier qualification (verify BSCI report and OEKO-TEX certificate directly on issuer databases — not just PDF copies), product compliance (confirm your target market's flammability, chemical, and labeling regulations), payment (30% deposit + 70% against shipping documents is standard; letter of credit adds bank guarantee but costs $200-500), logistics (sea freight 25-35 days to Europe, 15-20 days to US West Coast), and customs clearance (prepare commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and OEKO-TEX certificate). Import guide →
Request and verify certifications: BSCI, OEKO-TEX, business license. Check factory audit history and client references. Visit Unitex About page for our complete credentials. Video call factory tours are an acceptable alternative to in-person visits.
2. Product Compliance
Determine your target market’s requirements. US: CPSIA (kids), flammability (16 CFR 1610). EU: REACH, General Product Safety Regulation. Australia: AS/NZS 1249 (kids sleepwear). Your supplier should provide compliance documentation.
3. Payment Terms
Standard terms: 30% deposit with purchase order, 70% before shipment (or against BL copy). Letter of Credit for larger orders. Alibaba Trade Assurance for small first orders. Wire transfer is most common.
4. Customs and Duties
Underwear HS codes: 6107 (men's), 6108 (women's). US duties: 7-16% plus Section 301 tariffs (7.5% for most underwear). EU duties: 12%. Australia: 5% (0% under ChAFTA). Always confirm with your customs broker. Contact Unitex for complete import guidance.
Related: Explore our Sleepwear OEM manufacturing capabilities →
· Xiamen Unitex Trade Co., Ltd. — OEM & ODM underwear sourcing partner
Unitex Underwear (Xiamen Unitex Trade Co., Ltd.) — OEM/ODM underwear sourcing and supply-chain partner in Xiamen, China; in the trade since 2009, incorporated in 2013.