How to Import Clothing from India to the USA
With US tariffs on Chinese goods hitting historic highs in 2025, American fashion brands are moving sourcing to India faster than ever. India offers everything China does for fashion manufacturing — diverse product range, full private label, competitive pricing — without the Section 301 tariff exposure. This guide covers everything a US brand needs to know about importing garments from India.
Why US Brands Are Moving to India in 2025
The tariff situation on Chinese goods has made India the most attractive alternative for US fashion brands. Here's the comparison:
| Factor | India | China |
|---|---|---|
| MFN Tariff Rate | 12–32% (standard) | 12–32% (standard) |
| Section 301 Tariffs | ❌ Not applicable | ✅ Additional 25%+ |
| 2025 Executive Order Tariffs | ❌ Not applicable | ✅ Additional 20–145% |
| Total effective tariff (2025) | 12–32% | 50–175%+ |
| Minimum MOQ | 200 pieces | 500–1,000 pieces |
| English communication | ✅ Strong | ⚠️ Variable |
| Private label capability | ✅ Full service | ✅ Full service |
Note: Tariff rates as of April 2025. US trade policy is subject to change. Always verify current rates with your customs broker before importing.
US Import Tariffs on Indian Garments — HTS Codes
US import duties on garments are determined by the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. Key rates for Indian garments:
| Product | HTS Chapter | Rate Range |
|---|---|---|
| T-shirts, cotton knitted | HTS 6109.10 | ~16.5% |
| Hoodies / sweatshirts, cotton | HTS 6110.20 | ~17.5% |
| Women's nightwear, woven | HTS 6208.91 | ~9% |
| Pyjama sets, cotton woven | HTS 6207.21 | ~9% |
| Trousers, cotton woven (women's) | HTS 6204.62 | ~16.6% |
| Dresses, cotton woven | HTS 6104.42 | ~11.4% |
| Babies' garments, cotton knitted | HTS 6111.20 | ~8.1% |
| Kurta / ethnic sets, cotton woven | HTS 6211.42 | ~15.1% |
Rates are indicative. The exact rate depends on fabric composition, construction method, and gender designation. Always verify with a US customs broker using the precise 10-digit HTS code for your product.
Shipping Options: India to USA
✈️ Air Freight
- From: IGI Airport Delhi (DEL)
- To JFK (New York): 3–5 days
- To LAX (Los Angeles): 3–4 days
- To ORD (Chicago): 3–5 days
- Cost: ~$5–$9 per kg
- Best for: Samples, urgent orders, high-value small shipments
🚢 Sea Freight
- From: JNPT Mumbai Port
- To LA/Long Beach: 22–28 days
- To New York/New Jersey: 28–35 days
- To Savannah (Southeast): 28–32 days
- Cost: LCL from ~$100/CBM · FCL 20ft from ~$1,500
- Best for: Bulk seasonal orders, cost-sensitive shipments
US Customs Documentation
For formal entry (shipments over $2,500), your customs broker will need:
- Commercial Invoice: HTS codes, country of origin, declared value in USD, Incoterms
- Packing List: Carton count, gross/net weights, dimensions
- Bill of Lading (sea) / Airway Bill (air)
- Certificate of Origin: Confirms Made in India — critical for tariff classification
- ISF (Importer Security Filing): Filed by broker 24 hours before vessel departure for sea shipments
- Formal Entry (CBP Form 3461 / 7501): Filed by broker on arrival
Your Indian manufacturer provides the commercial invoice, packing list, and Certificate of Origin. Your US customs broker handles the ISF and formal entry. We can recommend freight forwarders with India-US experience if needed.
Full Timeline: India to US Delivery
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the import tariffs on clothing from India to the USA?
Indian garments are subject to standard US MFN tariff rates under HTS Chapter 61 (knitted) and Chapter 62 (woven). Rates typically range from 12%–32% depending on the specific HTS code. Crucially, Indian garments are NOT subject to Section 301 tariffs (which target China) or any additional executive order tariffs as of 2025. This makes India significantly cheaper to import from than China for US brands.
How long does shipping from India to the USA take?
Air freight from IGI Delhi to JFK, LAX, or ORD takes approximately 3–5 days. Sea freight from JNPT Mumbai to Los Angeles (LA/LB port complex) takes approximately 22–28 days. Sea freight to East Coast ports (New York/New Jersey) via Suez Canal takes approximately 28–35 days.
Do I need a customs broker to import from India to the USA?
For commercial shipments over $2,500, you are required to file a formal entry with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Most importers use a licensed customs broker to handle this. Your broker will file the ISF (Importer Security Filing) 24 hours before vessel departure and the formal entry upon arrival.
Is India a safe alternative to China for US fashion brands in 2025?
Yes. India is the most established alternative to China for garment manufacturing. Indian goods are not subject to Section 301 tariffs or the 2025 executive order additional tariffs that have significantly raised the cost of Chinese goods entering the USA. India also has strong English communication, lower MOQs, and full private label capability.
Sourcing for a US Brand?
We ship to the USA regularly. Low MOQ from 200 pieces. No Section 301 tariff exposure. Full export documentation included.
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