How to Import Knitwear from China: A Step-by-Step Buyer's Guide

Short answer: importing knitwear from China means five things in order — verify a manufacturer, agree the specification and Incoterms, place the order with a deposit, book a pre-shipment inspection, and clear customs and pay duties on arrival. Done properly, the process is predictable; done casually, it produces delays and surprise costs.

This guide walks through the import process step by step, from selecting a supplier to receiving goods.

Step 1: Verify the Manufacturer

Before anything else, confirm you are dealing with a real factory:

A supplier who cannot show the factory is a risk you do not need to take on a first order.

Step 2: Agree the Specification and Sample

Import problems usually start with a vague specification. Prepare a tech pack covering fabric, GSM, construction, measurements, colours and branding, then approve a pre-production sample. The sample becomes the reference your bulk order is judged against.

Step 3: Choose Incoterms and Payment Terms

Two commercial decisions define who carries cost and risk:

Link the balance payment to a passed inspection — the single most effective clause you can negotiate.

Step 4: Book a Pre-Shipment Inspection

Never pay the balance without checking the goods:

For a first order, third-party inspection is cheap insurance.

Step 5: Prepare Import Documentation

Your forwarder and customs broker will need:

Step 6: Clear Customs and Pay Duties

On arrival, goods are cleared through customs. Be ready for:

Model duty, freight and compliance costs into your landed cost before you set retail price.

Choosing Sea, Air or Express

Common Import Mistakes

Conclusion

Importing knitwear from China is a repeatable process: verify the factory, agree the spec and commercial terms, inspect before paying, prepare documents and clear customs. The complexity is in the details, not the concept. Handle each step deliberately and you build a supply chain that scales without surprises.

Key Takeaways for Buyers

Work with HONGTEX

HONGTEX is a vertically integrated knit textile manufacturer based in China, offering in-house knitting, dyeing, cutting, and finishing under one roof. From fabric development and sampling to bulk production and third-party quality inspection, we support brands, retailers, and trading companies across every step of the product journey. Contact our team today to discuss your project and receive a tailored quotation within 24 hours.