How to Buy Wholesale T-Shirts

Buying t-shirts in bulk saves money.

Wholesale companies sell items to businesses and, in some cases, individuals, who are looking to buy goods in bulk. Buying from a wholesaler is not just for retailers looking to turn a profit; individuals purchase wholesale products too, including t-shirts. Whether you are buying t-shirts to sell on your store's shelves or you are purchasing the t-shirts for a craft project, event or organization, buying in bulk gets you a discounted price per t-shirt--a cheaper option than buying from a traditional retail store.

Things You'll Need

• Sales tax ID number

Instructions

1. Determine how many t-shirts you need, what color(s) you would like and the style--fitted, long sleeve, cap sleeve and short sleeve are typical styles wholesalers offer.

2. Search for a wholesale company selling bulk t-shirts by doing an Internet search or looking through a phone book and contacting the company by phone.

3. Check whether the company requires a minimum order. Minimum orders vary by wholesaler; some require high minimum orders of 200 t-shirts, while other companies have no such purchase requirements. If the minimum order amount is substantially more than you need, look for another wholesaler.

4. Check whether the wholesaler requires a sales tax ID in order to make a purchase. Some wholesalers will not sell to individuals and require customers to have an actual storefront before ordering. If you are an individual purchasing t-shirts for a craft project, event or personal use, avoid these companies.

5. Verify the price per t-shirt. Wholesalers base pricing per shirt on how many you are ordering. Typically, the larger your order is, the more you save per t-shirt. If you are purchasing for resale, make sure you can make a profit on the shirts.

6. Place your wholesale t-shirt order. The company might ask you to sign up for an account before placing the order.

Tips & Warnings

• Some wholesalers will make exceptions to their minimum order requirements. In this case, they often add on a handling fee to lessen the impact it has on their profit margin.

• Shipping time for wholesale orders typically takes several weeks. Place your order early to make sure you receive your t-shirts by the date that you need them.

References

• "Complete Idiots Guide to Making Money with Your Hobby"; Barbara Arena; 2001

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish