How to Import Printed Fabrics from India (Step-by-Step Guide)
Importing fabrics from India sounds complicated, but once you understand the flow, it’s actually very simple. If you’re a fashion brand, boutique, and manufacturer, this step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to source, vet, and import printed fabrics from India without the hassle.
Why Source Printed Fabrics from India in 2025?
Before diving into the how, it is crucial to understand the why. India offers a unique value proposition that is hard to replicate elsewhere:
Versatility: From $2/meter synthetic digital prints to $15/meter luxury hand-block printed silk.
Sustainability Leadership: India is the largest producer of organic cotton and a leader in GOTS-certified manufacturing.
Low Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Unlike other markets requiring 1000+ meters, many Indian suppliers now support "small batch" manufacturing (as low as 50-100 meters) for direct-to-consumer brands.
Step 1 — Find the Right Supplier
A good supplier makes the whole process smooth. A bad one makes every next step painful. India ranks as the sixth largest exporter of textiles and apparel globally, and has tons of great fabric suppliers for your various needs. If looking for printed fabrics, we know the best one ;)
A good supplier should have:
Ready stock or fast production
Low MOQ (100m per design) if you're a boutique brand
Clear pricing (no hidden charges)
Fast dispatch (24–48 hours for stock items)
Good communication (Replies within 24 hours)
Experience exporting to UK/EU/UAE and other major markets
Quick test: Ask them: “Send me 5–10 real photos of your current stock rolls.”
If they hesitate → move on.
Ask for their IEC Code (Importer Exporter Code). Every genuine Indian exporter must have this 10-digit code. If they don't, they are a middleman, not an exporter.
Step 2 — Choose Your Designs & Fabric Bases
Once you trust the supplier, pick:
Ready-stock suppliers make this easy — no waiting, no colour issues.
Tip: Always confirm width + fold length. Ask for a video of the fabric.
Step 3 — Understand the Real Cost (Not just fabric price)
Fabric is cheap. Shipping decides profitability.
Your final landed cost = Fabric price + Shipping + Duty/VAT
Typical shipping options:
Courier → fastest, for small orders
Air cargo → best for 50–200 kg
Sea freight → cheapest for bulk orders
Ask your supplier for a shipping rate card or approximate shipping cost to your country before placing your order.
Step 4 — Payment Terms
Most international exporters follow:
100% advance for small orders
50/50 split for larger shipments
Accepted payment methods in India for exports:
Swift Bank transfer (most reliable)
Wise (used in some cases)
LC (big orders)
Always clear the payment terms with the supplier beforehand.
Step 5 — Shipping & Dispatch
Clear the shipping terms with your supplier. 2 most common options are :
FOB (Free On Board): You take control (and risk) as soon as the goods are loaded onto the ship in India. You pay for the shipping.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): The seller manages everything until the goods arrive at your local port. They pay for the shipping and insurance (and bill you for it).
Your supplier will share the following documents:
Invoice
Packing list
Certificate of origin (optional)
Tracking number (courier)/ Airway bill ( air cargo)/ Bill of Lading (sea cargo)
Courier is fully door-to-door.
Cargo may require local clearance support.
Step 6 — Customs Clearance
Present the documents that your supplier provided you. Based on your countries policies, you will need to pay:
Import duty
VAT
Clearance fee
Brands in Europe can reclaim VAT refund.
That’s it. You will get your shipment and can start your production.
Importing fabrics from India doesn’t have to be stressful.
Once you find the right supplier and follow a simple process, everything becomes predictable — designs, pricing, shipping, and timelines.
Looking for trendy, high-quality printed fabrics for your next collection?
We work with 800+ clothing businesses globally. Explore our curated wholesale fabric range designed for clothing brands like yours. Contact us on WhatsApp to view our catalogue.
Continue reading — 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Fabrics in Bulk
