How To Ship Clothes: A Step-By-Step Guide To Apparel Shipping

Clothes are some of the top items that people buy. If you’re running an apparel business, knowing how to ship clothes correctly is essential. It will help you make your brand more presentable. After all, it speaks about how you handle your products.

So, if you want to know the best ways to ship apparel, you got the right post! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your customers receive your products in the best condition. Now, let’s dive in and streamline your apparel shipping process!

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize proper preparation for your clothing products. Ensure they are carefully checked, folded, and packaged according to type to keep them in their best condition.
  
  
• Invest in quality packaging materials. Doing so will protect your products and enhance your brand’s reputation.
  
  
• Shipping with a reliable and affordable e-commerce shipping carrier, like Stallion, ensures that your products reach your customers worldwide promptly and without breaking the bank.
  
  

Steps On How To Ship Clothing

Shipping clothes can be a little tedious because you need to make sure everything is good. However, the tiresome feeling is nothing compared to the smiles on your customers’ faces when they receive their packages in perfect condition.

Here are the steps you need to remember when shipping clothes to your customers:

1. Prepare The Clothes For Packaging

The first step in shipping clothing is preparing the items. This involves checking each item for defects or damage.

It’s also crucial to ensure you’re preparing the right size and colour as indicated in your customer’s order. Sending an incorrect item can only frustrate and disappoint your customers. These are the situations that you want to avoid as much as possible!

Now, remember that packing clothes does not only mean directly putting them into a box. It would help if you also pack them correctly according to their category.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how you should package clothes for shipping:

A Single Shirt

• Fold the shirt neatly to minimize wrinkles.
  
  
• Place the folded shirt inside a clear plastic garment bag or a box, ensuring it lies flat.
  
  
• Include a tag indicating the item description, like size, material, and colour. You may also add extra items like buttons.
  
  
• Seal the plastic bag or the box securely with packing tape.
  
  

Multiple Shirts

• Organize the shirts by size, style, or any other relevant category.
  
  
• Fold each shirt neatly to minimize wrinkles and ensure uniformity in packaging.
  
  
• Place the folded shirts inside a clear plastic bag just right for the clothes. This helps ensure that the items have enough space to avoid damage.
  
  
• If you’re using a box, layer the folded shirts inside alternatively to maximize space and minimize bulk.
  
  
• Include a packing slip or tag detailing the item description.
  
  
• Seal the package securely with packing tape, reinforcing all seams.
  
  

Hoodies and Jackets

• Check each hoodie or jacket for any defects or damage.
  
  
• Place tags or accessories in a separate pack, as they can detach during transit.
  
  
• Fold the hoodie or jacket carefully to keep it in shape and minimize wrinkles.
  
  
• Place the folded hoodie or jacket inside a box, ensuring it is flat and centred.
  
  
• If shipping multiple items, layer them carefully, with heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
  
  
• Include a packing slip or tag detailing the item description.
  
  
• Close the box securely with packing tape, reinforcing all seams to prevent accidental openings.
  
  

A Single Pair of Pants

• Check the pants for any defects or damage.
  
  
• Secure the item’s tag inside its pocket to avoid tearing it.
  
  
• Fold the pants neatly, ensuring that the seams align correctly.
  
  
• Place the folded jeans in a clear plastic bag or pack them in wrapping paper to protect them during shipping.
  
  
• Seal the bag securely with tape to prevent the jeans from coming loose.
  
  
• Place the packaged jeans in a sturdy cardboard box or shipping envelope.
  
  
• Seal the box or envelope securely with tape.
  
  

Multiple Pairs of Pants

• Sort the pants by size or style.
  
  
• Check each pair of pants for defects or damages.
  
  
• Secure the items’ tags inside their pockets to avoid tearing them.
  
  
• Fold each pair of pants neatly, ensuring that the seams align properly.
  
  
• Place each folded pair of pants in a clear plastic bag or pack them in wrapping paper to protect them during shipping.
  
  
• Seal the bags securely with tape to prevent the pants from coming loose.
  
  
• Arrange the packaged pants in a sturdy cardboard box or shipping container, stacking them carefully to maximize space.
  
  
• Seal the box securely with tape.
  
  

Delicate Clothing

• Check the delicate clothing items for any damages or imperfections.
  
  
• Handle the clothing with care to avoid snagging or stretching delicate fabrics.
  
  
• Wrap each delicate clothing item individually in acid-free tissue paper or soft cloth to protect it from wrinkles and damage.
  
  
• Place the wrapped clothing items in a sturdy cardboard box or shipping bag. Then, arrange them carefully to avoid overcrowding.
  
  
• Seal the box securely with tape, ensuring all seams are reinforced.
  
  
• Label the box “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” so that shipping carriers are extra careful when handling delicate contents.
  
  

Undergarments

• Ensure that the undergarments are clean and free from any defects or damages.
  
  
• Fold or roll the undergarments neatly to prevent wrinkles and save space during shipping.
  
  
• Place the folded or rolled undergarments into a clear plastic bag or a box.
  
  
• Seal the packaging securely using tape to prevent it from opening during shipping.
  
  

Formal Clothes

• Check each formal clothing item for any stains, damages, or imperfections.
  
  
• Gently steam or iron the garments to remove wrinkles and ensure they look presentable.
  
  
• Fold each garment carefully, following its natural lines and creases to minimize wrinkles.
  
  
• Place the folded formal clothes in a clean garment bag or wrap them individually in acid-free tissue paper to protect them during shipping.
  
  
• Place the wrapped garments in a sturdy cardboard box or shipping container. Make sure they are laid flat to prevent crushing or wrinkling.
  
  
• Seal the box securely with packing tape, reinforcing all seams.
  
  
• Label the box clearly with the contents (e.g., “Formal Clothes”) and any special handling instructions.
  
  

Gowns

• Carefully inspect each gown (i.e., formal gown or wedding dress) for any stains, tears, or damages.
  
  
• Gently steam or press the gown to remove wrinkles and ensure its best condition.
  
  
• Place the gown on a padded hanger to maintain its shape and prevent wrinkling during shipping.
  
  
• Cover the gown with a garment bag or wrap it in acid-free tissue paper to protect it from dust and moisture.
  
  
• Place the gown in a sturdy cardboard box or shipping container, ensuring it fits without cramping.
  
  
• Seal the box securely with packing tape, reinforcing all seams.
  
  
• Label the box clearly with the contents (e.g., “Gown”) and any special handling instructions.
  
  

2. Use The Right Packaging Materials

Choosing the suitable packaging materials when preparing your packages makes all the difference when shipping clothes.

Doing so ensures that your clothing products are in excellent condition. This creates a positive impression on your brand. Well, imagine receiving a wrinkled shirt in a flimsy package. It doesn’t scream professionalism, right?

Also, investing in good quality packing material, like Stallion’s shipping supplies, not only protects your items from damage during transit. It also enhances the unboxing experience for your customers, leaving them impressed and eager to shop at your brand again.

Follow these tips on how to choose the right packaging materials for your clothing products:

• Opt for sturdy yet lightweight options like corrugated cardboard boxes or padded shipping envelopes. These will protect the garments without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
  
  
• Ensure the packaging size is just right to fit the items snugly. This will reduce excess space that leads to items moving during shipping.
  
  
• Use acid-free wrapping paper or garment bags to prevent wrinkles and keep the freshness of the clothes.
  
  
• Also, add branding add-ons like custom tags or stickers to elevate your brand’s image and packaging.
  
  

So, just like your customers carefully select the proper clothing for their style, take the time to choose the best packing materials for your products. This small detail makes a lasting impression on your clothing brand’s reputation.

3. Add Protective Padding

Adding protective padding like bubble wrap or garment paper ensures that your customers receive their purchases in perfect shape.

Think about it: nobody wants to receive a package only to find their favourite shirt squished or torn due to rough handling during shipping.

Just like we’d want our items handled carefully, ensuring clothes are packed with adequate protection is essential to maintain their pristine condition.

4. Attach A Complete and Accurate Shipping Label

Attaching complete and accurate labels when shipping clothes to customers is important for several reasons:

• It ensures that the package reaches the right recipient. This reduces the risk of delivery errors or misplacements.
  
  
• A detailed shipping label with clear information about the clothing item’s contents, size, and colour helps customers quickly identify and double-check their order upon arrival.
  
  
• Accurate labelling facilitates efficient inventory management. This will also help you easily track shipments, monitor stock levels, and fulfill orders promptly.
  
  

Ultimately, a well-labelled package reflects professionalism and reliability. Especially for starting online clothing stores, this helps build customer trust and loyalty, which are essential for long-term success in the competitive business landscape.

5. Choose The Best Shipping Method

Selecting the right shipping method for your clothing deliveries helps you achieve customer satisfaction and maintain a positive reputation.

Your shipping methods will impact delivery time, shipping costs, and overall customer experience.

By choosing reliable and efficient shipping services, you can guarantee that your customers will receive their orders in a timely manner. In return, this minimizes the risk of delays or lost packages.

Here are a few pro tips when selecting the best shipping method for your online clothing store:

• Consider the size and weight of your apparel products to identify the most cost-effective shipping option.
  
  
• Assess the shipping carrier’s reliability and track record for timely deliveries.
  
  
• Factor in the destination location and choose a shipping method that offers reasonable delivery times to that area.
  
  
• Compare shipping rates and services different carriers offer to find the best value for your shipping needs.
  
  
• Take into account any special requirements or preferences of your customers, like expedited shipping or signature upon delivery options.
  
  

To do this, look at previous customer reviews and feedback. Beyond the shipping carrier’s branding, these testimonials will also give you a glimpse into what you may experience when shipping with a particular carrier.

6. Track The Shipment

Tracking shipments ensures a smooth and transparent delivery process. By monitoring the shipment’s progress in real time, you can proactively address any potential delays or issues that may arise during transit.

Additionally, this feature provides the specifics of delivery, which helps customers anticipate the arrival of their orders or plan accordingly.

This level of transparency builds trust and confidence in the business, enhancing the overall customer experience. Lastly, tracking shipments allows you to intervene promptly in case of lost or damaged packages.

For example, imagine you shipped a batch of clothing orders to customers using a specific shipping provider. After a few days, you noticed through the tracking details that one of the packages had been stuck at a sorting facility for an extended period.

You can contact the shipping carrier’s customer support using the tracking information to inquire about the shipment status.

Knowing the situation lets you provide clear details when your customer asks about their package. Doing this helps you address potential problems, maintain customer satisfaction, and keep your brand reputation.

7. Confirm Delivery

By confirming delivery, you prepare yourself in case of disputes or claims of non-delivery from customers. It provides a sense of closure to the transaction, assuring both sides that the order has reached its destination safely and on time.

Additionally, this feature helps you track shipment progress accurately and promptly address any issues that may arise during transit, such as lost or damaged packages.

A few ways to confirm delivery with your customers include:

• Provide customers with a unique tracking number for their orders. This will allow them to verify delivery status online independently.
  
  
• Follow up with them via email or phone to confirm receipt of their orders. You can also ask about their satisfaction with the products and delivery experience.
  
  
• Offer incentives or discounts for customers who confirm receipt of their orders within a specified timeframe. This will encourage prompt confirmation and feedback.
  
  

Overall, confirming delivery is a simple yet essential step in ensuring a smooth and reliable shipping process for clothing orders.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship Clothes?

The cost of shipping clothes can vary depending on several factors, like:

• Size
  
  
• Package Weight
  
  
• Shipping Destination
  
  
• Additional Services (i.e., package protection)
  
  

Packaging materials and handling fees may also contribute to the shipping cost. To determine the precise cost of shipping clothes, it’s best to compare rates among Canada’s major shipping carriers and consider the specific requirements of each shipment.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship Clothes Internationally?

If you’re shipping clothes internationally, here’s a table you can use to compare Canada’s top shipping providers and their international shipping options, speed, and costs.

Note that the shipping cost estimates below are based on the following details:

Item Category: Women’s Apparel

Item Description: Leather Jacket

Item Value: 75 CAD

Package Weight: 1.8 kg / 4 lbs

Package Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 8 inches

Place of Origin: Ontario, Canada

Package Destination: Marseille, France

(Note: Refer to the shipping carrier’s website for the latest and more accurate shipping cost estimates.)

What’s The Cheapest Way To Ship Clothes?

As seen in the table above, Stallion offers the cheapest rates when shipping clothes internationally. This Canadian e-commerce shipping service provider provides a reasonable delivery time frame from Canada to other countries.

Make Stallion Your Shipping Partner

Stallion keeps stepping up the game when it comes to providing international shipping services. We aim to help more Canadian online sellers grow their market by reaching more countries than ever.

By working with reliable shipping couriers like APC Logistics and PostNL, we ensure you get an industry-leading international shipping service for the lowest rates! With us, you can save up to 80% in shipping worldwide with full tracking options and unbeatable delivery time.

Let Stallion help you reach your customers anywhere in the world and style them up with your fashionable apparel! So, create your Stallion account today and kickstart your online store’s journey to the global stage.

To Wrap It Up..

Mastering the art of shipping shirts and other fashion pieces is more than just getting products from point A to point B. It also delivers an experience reflecting your clothing brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. So, remember to put this blog’s insights into action.

To make it even better, ship clothing with Stallion and watch your apparel business thrive internationally.

Aman Chopra

Aman looks after the content marketing department at Stallion Express. He is passionate about helping businesses grow by providing informative and up-to-date trends in the eCommerce industry. Outside the office, you can find him on the soccer field cheering on Real Madrid.