How to package and ship clothes internationally from Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s apparel and textile industry stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, celebrated for its unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative production techniques. In 2022, the sector achieved an impressive export value of US$5.92 billion and is ambitiously targeting US$8 billion by 2025¹. This remarkable growth underscores the global demand for Sri Lankan garments, renowned for their export quality clothes, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

For businesses aiming to thrive in the competitive cloth export business, seamless and efficient shipping is essential. From managing delicate fabrics like wedding dresses and ladies' dresses to navigating complex export regulations, every step plays a pivotal role in ensuring success. This guide will provide practical insights to help exporters handle apparel exports effectively, with the unmatched support of DHL Express.

How to package clothes for overseas shipping

Proper packaging is essential to protect garments during overseas shipping. Without adequate preparation, shipments risk damage, delays, or even customs rejection. Below, we detail how to package clothes for shipping effectively:

Shipping fragile garments

Delicate garments like silk dresses, lace wedding gowns, and embroidered pieces require meticulous care to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

• Protective materials: Use materials such as bubble wrap, padded garment bags, or acid-free tissue paper. These help cushion the garments and prevent potential damage, such as snags or creases, during transit.
• Layering and securing: Wrap individual items separately and secure them within sturdy boxes. Fill any empty spaces with cushioning materials like air pillows or biodegradable packing peanuts to prevent movement.
• Special handling services: DHL Express ensures your clothes and fashion items are handled with the utmost care throughout the shipping process. Mark packages as “Fragile” and inform our logistics team about any specific handling instructions. 

Shipping non-fragile garments

Durable fabrics, including cotton and polyester, require less protective layering but still demand thoughtful preparation.

• Folding or rolling: Neatly fold or roll garments to save space and minimize wrinkles. Rolling is particularly efficient for bulk shipments or tightly packed boxes.
• Use of vacuum-seal bags: Vacuum-sealed bags help reduce the volume of bulkier items, ensuring they remain compact and free of dust or moisture.
• Labeling and sorting: Organize garments by type or size, and use dividers within boxes to maintain order. Label the exterior with clear details about the contents and destination address.

How to ship clothes to another state

Additionally, navigating the complexities of international garment shipping requires attention to several critical aspects, from understanding regulations to choosing the right shipping modes. Here’s how to ship clothes internationally seamlessly:

Garment import and export regulations

• International Market Regulations:

Each country has its own set of rules that can include safety standards, certifications, and labeling requirements for textiles and garments.

European Union

For example, the European Union enforces strict regulations under the REACH directive, which governs chemical usage in textiles to protect consumer health and the environment. Garments must also include detailed care labels with clear instructions on how to wash, dry, and iron the items to ensure their longevity. Accurate country-of-origin information is also required to inform consumers about where the garment was manufactured.

United States

Similarly, the United States imposes flammability standards for clothing under the Consumer Product Safety Commission, ensuring that garments meet safety requirements before entering the market. They also impose fiber content labeling standards. Garments must specify the exact fiber composition by percentage, ensuring transparency for consumers and meeting legal requirements for textile products.

• Sri Lankan Export Compliance:

In addition to these international regulations, exporters in Sri Lanka must also comply with domestic requirements. This includes securing registration with the Export Development Board (EDB) and meeting local export standards.

• Adherence to custom procedures

Proper documentation, such as permits and declarations, is essential to avoid delays and ensure timely customs clearance, facilitating smooth international shipping and business operations.

Modes of shipping garments and clothes internationally

• Air Freight:

Air cargo shipping is ideal for time-sensitive shipments, offering faster delivery times. This method is particularly beneficial for fashion or e-commerce businesses that need to maintain a quick delivery cycle, ensuring that their products reach customers on time. While air freight may be more expensive, it guarantees speed and efficiency, making it perfect for seasonal collections or high-demand items.

For fashion businesses seeking dependable express shipping solutions, DHL Express offers unmatched speed and reliability. Our Time Definite International (TDI) services are tailored to meet the needs of time-critical shipments, ensuring your products reach their destinations quickly and efficiently.

For even greater urgency, DHL Express offers premium time-definite services with guaranteed delivery by specific times:

• DHL Express 9:00 – Delivery by 9:00 a.m. on the next or second business day.
• DHL Express 10:30 – Delivery by 10:30 a.m. on the next possible business day to the United States.
• DHL Express 12:00 – Delivery by noon on the next possible business day.

These services are available to major business centers across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, making them ideal for critical shipments that require precision and timeliness.

• Sea Freight:

Sea freight offers a cost-effective solution for bulk shipments, especially for larger volumes of garments. Although this option takes longer, it is much more economical, making it a great choice for less time-sensitive deliveries. Sea freight is typically used by businesses looking to reduce costs without compromising the quality of their goods.

So, can I send clothes through DHL Express? The simple answer is yes. DHL Express is a trusted partner for time-sensitive shipments. With reliable tracking, end-to-end solutions, and expedited delivery, DHL Express ensures your garments reach international markets quickly, helping Sri Lankan businesses maintain customer satisfaction while reducing shipping complexities.

Required documents for cross-border deliveries

Inaccurate documentation can result in customs delays or fines, so it’s crucial to double-check all details before shipment. Working with a trusted logistics partner, like DHL Express, can also help ensure that all paperwork is accurate and submitted on time. Essential documents for garment exports include:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Import/Export Permits and Customs Declarations

Environmentally friendly shipping solutions

With sustainability becoming a growing concern in the shipping industry, Sri Lankan exporters can play a key role in reducing the environmental impact of their operations.

• Businesses can make a significant impact by using eco-friendly packaging for their garment shipments. Using reusable garment bags or environmentally-friendly packing peanuts can reduce waste, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
• Sri Lanka business owners should also consider eco-friendly shipping solutions such as DHL’s GoGreen initiative; this program helps offset the carbon emissions generated during the shipment process, allowing businesses to reduce their environmental footprint.

Unlock the global market with smooth overseas shipping

Expanding your export business in Sri Lanka globally requires effective shipping strategies that balance cost, speed, and sustainability. DHL Express stands out as a trusted partner, offering unparalleled support to exporters in Sri Lanka. From eco-friendly practices to end-to-end shipping solutions, we help businesses meet international standards while ensuring customer satisfaction.

Open a DHL Express business account today to elevate your cloth export business and seize opportunities in the Sri Lankan textile market.