Sri Lanka has carved a unique niche as a nation renowned for its strong foothold in the global garment export market. According to Reuters, apparel is the country’s largest industrial export, with exports totalling US$5.95 billion in 2022. Over the years, it has gained international acclaim for the quality of its garments, its ethical and sustainable production practices, and its ability to cater to a wide variety of markets. However, with the privilege of playing on the global stage comes the responsibility of understanding and navigating the complex minefield of international shipping. And it is here that Sri Lanka's garment exporters need to be mindful of certain do's and don'ts to ensure the seamless continuation of their successful operations.
Do's of exporting garments
1. Understand market regulations
Each international market boasts its unique set of import regulations, standards, and certifications that govern the import of goods, including textiles and garments. These regulations might range from stringent safety standards to meticulous labelling requirements.
For instance, the European Union has strict regulations concerning chemical usage in textile production and manufacturing under the REACH regulation. Alternatively, when shipping to the United States, the Consumer Product Safety Commission mandates specific flammability standards for clothing textiles. Familiarising themselves with such market-specific regulations is non-negotiable for apparel exporters as it ensures compliance, prevents legal complications, and guarantees smooth customs clearance. An in-depth understanding of the requirements of shipping clothing can prevent costly missteps and delays that might compromise the company's reputation.
2. Sustainable and ethical production
One of the hallmarks of Sri Lanka's garment and textile industry is its strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable production practices. This not only resonates with the growing global demand for sustainability but also gives the industry a competitive edge. It's essential for businesses to uphold and continue these practices, as they are a significant part of the country's global reputation.
3. Packaging and quality assurance
When exporting garments, the importance of proper packaging cannot be overstated. The journey from production facility to the customer is fraught with potential risks – movement, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, to name a few. Therefore, it’s critical businesses understand that appropriate packaging plays a critical role in preventing any damage to the garments during transit. This includes not only sturdy outer packaging but also internal packing materials to protect the clothing.
Moreover, the implementation of stringent quality control measures is a must. This involves rigorous checks during production and packaging, ensuring that any defects are identified and fixed before shipping.
4. Leveraging technology and innovation
The world is rapidly evolving, and so are production methods and logistics operations. Integrating technology and innovation into the supply chain when shipping garments can streamline processes, increase efficiency, and strengthen competitiveness on the global stage. For example, DHL Express provides its customers with an advanced shipping management tool, MyDHL+, to simplify their shipping processes. From booking pickups, tracking shipments, to managing returns, DHL's technology-driven solutions are designed to provide seamless and efficient logistics operations.
Don’ts of exporting garments
1. Ignoring cultural differences
Each market has its own set of cultural norms and preferences. Overlooking these aspects could result in garments being unacceptable in certain markets. It's vital for exporters to do their research and understand the cultural nuances of their target markets.
2. Underestimating delivery time
Global business operations hinge on timeliness. Any miscalculation in delivery timeframes could lead to delayed shipment of garments, missed deadlines, and, ultimately, dissatisfied customers. To avoid these issues, it's essential to have accurate and comprehensive forecasting and logistical planning in place. This includes understanding transit times, factoring in potential delays, and setting realistic expectations for delivery. Partnering with a credible international shipper that can competently handle express deliveries puts your garment business in good stead.
