Logistics & Trade Support

Streamlined Global Shipping Coordination

Navigate international trade logistics with confidence. Global Stitchers provides coordination support, documentation guidance, and customs assistance to help ensure your shipments move efficiently from origin to destination.

 
 
 

Worldwide Shipping Network

Our logistics coordination ensures your garments move efficiently from manufacturing facilities to your warehouse.

 
 
 
 

Freight Options

Multiple Shipping Modes

We coordinate with carriers across all major freight modes to find the right balance of cost, speed, and reliability for your shipments.

 
 
 
 

Ocean Freight

Cost-effective solution for large volume shipments with flexible container options.

Best for: High-volume orders, cost-sensitive shipments

 

Air Freight

Expedited shipping for time-sensitive orders and urgent restocking needs.

Best for: Urgent orders, sample shipments, lightweight goods

 

Rail Freight

Efficient overland transport connecting major manufacturing hubs to ports.

Best for: Inland manufacturing origins, eco-conscious shipping

 

Ground Transport

Last-mile delivery and domestic distribution across the United States.

Best for: U.S. distribution, warehouse transfers

 

Shipping Lifecycle

From Factory to Warehouse

Understanding the typical journey of your goods from production completion to final delivery.

 
 
 

Order Confirmation

Production complete, goods ready for shipment. Final quality inspection conducted.

Documentation Preparation

All required shipping documents compiled and verified for accuracy.

Freight Booking

Carrier selection, space booking, and pickup scheduling coordinated.

Cargo Loading

Goods loaded, container sealed, and departure documentation issued.

In-Transit Monitoring

Real-time tracking and status updates throughout the shipping journey.

Customs Clearance

Entry filing, duty payment, and regulatory compliance verification.

Final Delivery

Last-mile transport to designated warehouse or distribution center.

Documentation

Trade Documentation Support

Proper documentation is critical for smooth customs clearance and regulatory compliance. We help ensure your paperwork is complete and accurate.

 
 
 
 

Commercial Documentation

Compliance Documents

Customs Documentation

Quality & Inspection

Customs Assistance

U.S. Customs & Import Support

Navigating U.S. customs requirements can be complex. We provide guidance and coordination to help streamline the import process.

 
 
 
 

Tariff Classification

Accurate HTS code identification to ensure proper duty rates and avoid classification disputes.

Duty Optimization

Analysis of applicable trade agreements, preferential programs, and duty reduction opportunities.

Regulatory Compliance

Guidance on CPSC requirements, textile labeling laws, and country-of-origin marking rules.

Broker Coordination

Connection with licensed customs brokers for seamless entry processing and clearance.

Bond & Insurance

Information on customs bonds, cargo insurance options, and risk mitigation strategies.

Trade Program Guidance

Support for programs like C-TPAT, ISA, and other trusted trader initiatives.

Key Considerations

Important Trade Factors

International shipping involves many variables. Understanding these factors helps set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.

 
 
 
 

Incoterms Understanding

We help clarify Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.) to ensure both parties understand responsibilities for costs, risks, and logistics at each stage of shipment.

Origin Country Requirements

Different manufacturing countries have varying export procedures, documentation requirements, and lead times that impact overall shipping schedules.

Seasonal Considerations

Peak shipping seasons, holiday factory closures, and port congestion periods can significantly impact transit times and costs.

Risk Management

Understanding cargo insurance options, liability limitations, and contingency planning for shipping delays or disruptions.

Incoterms Reference

Common Shipping Terms

Understanding Incoterms helps clarify responsibilities between buyers and sellers in international trade.

 
 
 
 
Buyer-Friendly Terms

Delivered Duty Paid

Seller handles all shipping, customs, and duties. Goods delivered to buyer's location with all costs included.

Delivered at Place

Seller delivers goods to named destination. Buyer responsible for import clearance and duties.

Cost, Insurance & Freight

Seller pays for shipping and insurance to destination port. Buyer handles customs and inland transport.

Ex Works

Buyer assumes all costs and risks from seller's premises. Seller's only obligation is to make goods available.

Free on Board

Seller delivers goods onto the shipping vessel. Risk transfers to buyer once goods are on board.

Free Carrier

Seller delivers goods to carrier or named place. Export clearance is seller's responsibility.

International Shipping & Logistics FAQ

Common questions about shipping garments from overseas manufacturers to the U.S.

How long does ocean freight take from Asian manufacturing countries to the U.S.?
Ocean transit times from major Asian manufacturing hubs to U.S. ports typically range from 15-35 days depending on origin and destination. From Bangladesh or India to East Coast ports, expect 30-35 days. From Vietnam or China to West Coast ports, expect 15-25 days. Add 5-10 days for customs clearance and inland transport to your final destination.
FOB (Free On Board) means the manufacturer’s price includes goods loaded onto the vessel at the origin port—you pay freight and insurance separately. CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) includes shipping and insurance to your destination port. Most private label clothing manufacturers quote FOB, giving you more control over carrier selection and shipping costs.
Essential documents include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, and Country of Origin Certificate. Depending on your products, you may also need CPSIA certificates (for children’s items), textile fiber content documentation, and customs bond information. Your customs broker handles the formal entry paperwork.
U.S. import duties on apparel are based on the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) classification of your products. Duty rates for garments typically range from 10-32% depending on fiber content, construction, and gender/age category. Some items may qualify for reduced duties under trade agreements like DR-CAFTA for Central American origins.
FCL (Full Container Load) is cost-effective for orders filling at least half a 20′ container—typically 2,500+ pieces of basic garments. LCL (Less than Container Load) works for smaller orders, consolidating your goods with others. LCL has higher per-unit costs and longer transit times due to consolidation/deconsolidation at both ends.
Common delay factors include: port congestion (especially during peak seasons), incomplete or incorrect documentation, customs holds for inspection, weather or vessel delays, holiday factory closures at origin, and container equipment shortages. Building buffer time into your delivery planning helps manage these variables.
While not legally required, cargo insurance is strongly recommended. Ocean carriers’ liability is extremely limited (approximately $500 per container under the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act). All-risk cargo insurance typically costs 0.3-0.5% of cargo value and covers loss, damage, and general average situations.
Once goods ship, you’ll receive a Bill of Lading with container and vessel information. Major shipping lines offer online tracking. We provide shipment status updates at key milestones: departure confirmation, vessel tracking, arrival notification, and customs clearance status. Most shipments can be tracked in near real-time.
 

Ready to Discuss Your Logistics Needs?

Whether you’re shipping your first container or managing ongoing supply chain operations, we’re here to help coordinate your logistics requirements.