Smarter UK Fashion Brands Import from India
- Shraddha Srivastava
- Dec 8
- 6 min read
Summary
UK retailers are rapidly turning to importing garments from India thanks to zero-duty benefits under the India-UK FTA, ethical manufacturing, and strong supply-chain reliability. This guide explains how to choose a supplier, manage export and import documentation, meet UK compliance standards, and streamline shipments for cost-effective, sustainable fashion sourcing.
Introduction:
For UK fashion retailers, sourcing garments globally has always been about balancing cost, quality, and compliance. Traditionally, China has been the default choice. But in recent years, India has emerged as a better option, thanks to competitive pricing, trade agreements, and rising consumer demand for sustainable fashion. Importing garments from India to the UK is not difficult, but it does require following certain steps and complying with both Indian export rules and UK import regulations.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting a supplier in India to handling documentation, understanding UK customs and tariffs, and ensuring your garments meet safety and labelling standards.
Why UK Retailers Are Shifting from China to India for Garment Imports
China has long dominated garment manufacturing, but UK retailers are increasingly looking to India for several reasons:
Import Duty Benefits: The India-UK FTA (May 2025) removes duties on 99% of Indian goods, including garments, offering a clear cost advantage over China.
Stronger Trade Relations: The FTA aims to double bilateral trade by 2040, ensuring a more stable and predictable trading environment.
Sustainability & Ethics: India’s growing focus on eco-friendly and ethical manufacturing aligns with UK consumer demand for sustainable fashion.
Supply Chain Diversification: Sourcing from India reduces reliance on China, helping retailers manage risks from global disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing Garments from India to the UK
Importing garments from India to the UK can be straightforward if you follow each step carefully. This guide breaks down what UK fashion retailers need before shipment, during shipping, and after arrival in the UK, in simple language.
Step 1: Establish a Relationship with a Reputable Indian Supplier
Before you even place an order, you need to find a reliable supplier in India. Not all manufacturers are equally experienced in exporting to the UK, so it’s essential to partner with a supplier who understands international standards, shipping procedures, and UK regulations.
What you need in India before shipment:
Supplier Verification: Check their reputation, export experience, and certifications. Ask for references from other UK retailers.
Sample Orders: Before committing to bulk orders, request samples to check the quality, fabric, stitching, and compliance with UK labelling rules.
Contract/Agreement: Sign a clear agreement covering product specifications, delivery timelines, pricing, and responsibilities for customs documentation.
Why NoName is ideal: NoName is a leading clothing manufacturer in India and supplier to the UK, with over 20 years of experience. They offer sustainable and private label garments and handle all export processes for UK retailers, ensuring smooth shipments and consistent quality.
Step 2: Verify Supplier Compliance with Indian Export Regulations
Before goods leave India, the supplier must comply with certain rules and documents for legal exports. As a UK retailer, you should confirm that your supplier provides everything you need to clear customs in both India and the UK.
Important Indian export requirements:
Importer Exporter Code (IEC):
Every Indian exporter must have an IEC issued by DGFT.
Without this code, customs will not allow the shipment to leave India.
Goods and Services Tax (GST) Registration:
Indian suppliers must be GST registered.
GST ensures that invoices are legal and allows zero-rating for exports (so you don’t pay Indian domestic GST on exported garments).
Export Documentation:
Commercial Invoice: Shows details of garments, quantity, price, and total value. Essential for customs in both India and the UK.
Packing List: Details how garments are packed in cartons, including weights and dimensions. Customs and shipping companies need this.
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill: Proof that the shipment is on board a ship or airplane. Required for shipping and insurance.
Certificate of Origin: Confirms the garments are “Made in India.” Often required by UK customs for duty exemptions under trade agreements.
Export Declaration / Shipping Bill: Filed electronically with Indian customs. Confirms that goods are leaving India legally.
Tip: Ensure your supplier provides all original documents and digital copies. Missing or incorrect paperwork is a common reason for shipment delays.
Step 3: Obtain an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) Number
Once the shipment is ready to leave India, you must prepare for import into the UK.
What it is: An EORI number is a unique ID starting with ‘GB’ required by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to process imported goods.
Why you need it: Without an EORI, UK customs will not accept your shipment for clearance.
How to get it: Apply online via HMRC. Usually, it takes a few days to process.
Tip: Make sure your EORI number is active and correctly linked to your business name.
Step 4: Classify Goods Using the Correct Commodity Code
Every garment type has a commodity code (HS code) that determines the import duties and VAT in the UK.
How to do it: Look up the correct code in the UK Trade Tariff. Codes differ for men’s, women’s, and children’s garments, or fabric types.
Why it matters: Using the wrong code can result in higher duties, fines, or customs delays.
Tip: Confirm with your supplier the exact type of garment and materials so the code matches.
Step 5: Submit a Customs Declaration
Before your shipment arrives in the UK, you (or your customs agent) must submit a customs declaration to HMRC.
What’s included:
EORI number
Description of goods
Quantity and value
Commodity code
Country of origin
How to submit: Through the UK customs system (CHIEF or CDS). You can use a licensed customs broker to simplify this step.
Tip: Accurate declarations help avoid delays, penalties, or extra inspections at the port.
Step 6: Pay Import Duties and Taxes
Even though the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has eliminated most tariffs, some duties or VAT may still apply.
Import Duty: Most Indian garments now have 0% duty under FTA, but verify specific codes.
VAT: 20% VAT is charged on the total value of goods plus shipping and duty.
Other Fees: Handling charges, customs broker fees, or ECAs certificates for some product types.
Tip: Factor these costs into your pricing. Also, maintain proper invoices to claim VAT refunds if applicable.
Step 7: Ensure Compliance with UK Standards
When the shipment arrives, UK retailers must check that garments meet all UK rules for labeling, safety, and quality.
Labelling Requirements:
Safety and Quality Checks:
No harmful chemicals (formaldehyde, banned dyes, heavy metals)
Children’s clothing must meet flammability and choking hazard rules
Optional: Testing certificates from accredited labs for high-end buyers can add credibility and reduce inspection risk.
Tip: Work with suppliers like NoName, who prepare UK-compliant labels and ensure all quality checks are passed before shipment.
The Advantages of Partnering with NoName
NoName offers several benefits to UK retailers:
Diverse Product Range: From casual wear to formal attire, NoName provides a wide array of garments to suit various market segments.
Sustainable Practices: Committed to eco-friendly manufacturing processes, NoName ensures that all products meet international sustainability standards.
Private Label Services: Retailers can leverage NoName's private label offerings to establish their brand identity.
Competitive Pricing: With the elimination of import duties under the FTA, NoName offers cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.
Conclusion: Embrace the Opportunity
Importing garments from India to the UK presents a lucrative opportunity for fashion retailers. By understanding the regulatory requirements, navigating the import process efficiently, and partnering with a reputable supplier like NoName, retailers can enhance their product offerings and cater to the growing demand for diverse, sustainable fashion.
Ready to expand your product line with premium Indian garments? Contact NoName today to explore our extensive range of offerings and start your import journey seamlessly.
FAQs
What is the Importer Exporter Code (IEC)?
The IEC is a unique code issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in India, required for all export activities.
Do I need an EORI number to import into the UK?
Yes, an EORI number starting with 'GB' is mandatory for customs declarations in the UK.
How do I determine the applicable import duty?
The import duty is based on the commodity code assigned to the goods. This code can be found in the UK Trade Tariff.
Are there any restrictions on importing garments into the UK?
Garments must comply with UK safety and labelling standards. Additionally, certain products may require specific certifications.
How can NoName assist in the import process?
NoName offers end-to-end solutions, including product sourcing, manufacturing, and logistics, ensuring a smooth import experience.
WhatsApp: +91-9717 508 508
Email: hello@nonameglobal.com
Website: www.nonameglobal.com
Online meeting: https://calendly.com/nonameglobal/meet