How to Choose a Used Clothing Exporter: Questions to Ask Before You Pay

The best used clothing suppliers answer your questions clearly, show you the actual goods, and put their terms in writing. Use the twelve questions below with any exporter you are considering. We have written our own answers beside each one so you can see what clear looks like.

1. Where do the goods come from?

Good exporters can tell you how they source. At Toro Textile Recycling we buy at source in the United States rather than from other exporters, so we control what goes into each bale and can keep the composition steady from one container to the next.

2. How do you grade?

Ask to see the written standards. Every item at Toro Textile Recycling passes a usability check before it is assigned a grade, and sorted products are separated by category, gender and quality against written standards our graders follow daily.

3. Can I see the actual goods before I pay?

The answer should be yes. You receive photographs and video of the actual goods, and you can inspect in person at our Houston warehouse. See our inspection guide for a checklist.

4. Can I get samples?

We invite you to inspect instead of sending samples, because a few garments cannot show you how a whole bale looks.

5. What load sizes do you offer?

We load 20 ft and 40 ft containers and 53 ft domestic trailers. For first orders we can arrange warehouse inspections.

6. What are your payment terms?

We ask for 50% in advance to start processing and the balance at the time of loading. Prices are in US dollars, and we accept ACH and wire transfers on all orders.

7. How long does loading take?

Allow 5 to 7 business days from cleared payment to loading.

8. What documents will I receive?

You receive a commercial invoice, a packing list and a bill of lading for each shipment, and we photograph the loaded and sealed container.

9. Who handles freight?

You can use your own forwarder, or we can handle freight. Where we handle it, we require full freight payment before the container is released in your name.

10. Can I combine products?

Yes. Combined loads of clothing, shoes and other products are available.

11. Do you know my market?

Ask for your country by name. We ship to 48 country pages across Central America, South America, Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe, and we tell you honestly whether a grade is right for your market.

12. Where are you based?

A real address is a good sign. We are at 6110 Griggs Rd, Houston, Texas 77023, a short drive from the Port of Houston. You can reach us on WhatsApp at +1 713 330 3888 or at info@torotextilerecycling.com.

A quick comparison sheet

• Sources goods at source and can describe how
• Shares written grading standards
• Provides photos and video of the actual goods
• Welcomes in-person inspection
• Gives clear payment terms in US dollars
• Provides invoice, packing list and bill of lading
• Has a real address and answers messages quickly

Frequently asked questions

What should I ask a used clothing supplier?

Ask where the goods come from, how they are graded, whether you can inspect them, and what the payment terms and documents are.

How do I know a supplier is reliable?

Look for clear written terms, photographs and video of the actual goods, an open invitation to inspect, and a real address.

What payment terms are normal?

Terms vary. Ours are 50% to start processing and the balance at loading, in US dollars by ACH or wire.

How quickly will I get a quote?

You receive a written quotation within one business day.

Want to ask us these questions? Message us on WhatsApp or request a quote.