For apparel brands and wholesalers in the United States, sourcing t-shirts from India presents a golden opportunity to balance quality, price, and scalability. As demand for organic cotton and private label fashion grows, India has emerged as a leading destination for reliable t-shirt exports.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps and considerations to source t shirts from India for the USA market—whether you’re starting a brand or scaling your product line.

📍 Why India?
India combines manufacturing scale, skilled labor, and access to certified raw materials. These advantages make it a strong choice for buyers seeking:
- Competitive pricing
- GOTS-certified and OEKO-TEX fabrics
- Custom printing and branding options
- Low minimum order quantities
- Compliance with US regulations (ASTM, CPSIA)
📦 Step-by-Step Sourcing Process
Here’s how to source t shirts from India for the USA market effectively:
1. Identify Your Requirements
Decide on fabric (organic cotton, blends, bio-washed), fit (slim, regular, oversized), print types (DTG, screen print, sublimation), and quantities.
2. Choose a Verified Manufacturer
Select an experienced exporter with product certifications, export documents (COO, GSP, MSDS), and a dedicated sampling process.
3. Request Samples
Order physical or virtual samples to check sizing, stitching, and print quality before bulk production.
4. Negotiate Terms
Discuss MOQ (typically 300–500 units), pricing tiers, shipping terms (CIF, FOB, CFR), lead time (30–45 days), and payment terms.
5. Place Order & Monitor
Once approved, place your PO and receive regular updates on production and shipping.
🌎 US Buyer Benefits When Sourcing from India
- Wide Fabric Selection
- Private Label & Branding Options
- Factory-Direct Pricing
- USA-Compliant Packaging
- Global Logistic Support