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US Sportswear Manufacturer: Serving US Brands from Zhejiang
# US Sportswear Manufacturer: Serving US Brands from Zhejiang
## What US brands actually order from us
At Alpinario, we specialize in manufacturing a wide range of sportswear for US brands. Our factory in Zhejiang, China, has been serving brands and startups for over 20 years. Here’s a breakdown of what our US clients typically order:
- **Yoga Wear**: Ranging from leggings and tops to full outfits, our yoga wear is made from high-strength polyester and spandex blends, ensuring durability and comfort. GSM (grams per square meter) for yoga pants typically ranges from 180 to 220 GSM.
- **Running Gear**: From moisture-wicking shorts to breathable running tops, we use advanced fabric technologies to keep athletes cool and dry. GSM for running shorts is usually around 150 to 170.
- **Compression Shirts and Tights**: Ideal for high-intensity workouts, our compression garments are designed to enhance performance and recovery. GSM for compression shirts ranges from 180 to 200.
- **Custom Gym Wear**: Custom logos, prints, and colors are a staple. We can match almost any Pantone color and handle custom printing, embroidery, and heat transfer.
For more detailed product options, check out our [Wholesale Sportswear](/wholesale-sportswear) and [Custom Sportswear](/custom-sportswear) pages.
## Shipping & duties: US lane breakdown
Shipping sportswear from Zhejiang to the US involves several steps and considerations. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
### Shipping Options
1. **Ocean Freight**: The most cost-effective method for bulk orders. It typically takes 30-45 days from Zhejiang to major US ports like Los Angeles or New York.
2. **Air Freight**: Faster but more expensive. Ideal for urgent orders. Delivery can be as quick as 7-10 days.
### Import Duties and Taxes
- **Duty Rates**: Duty rates for sportswear vary but generally range from 2% to 17%. For example, yoga pants have a duty rate of around 10%.
- **Harmonized System (HS) Codes**: Each product category has a specific HS code. For example, HS code 6107.21.0090 applies to men's or boys' knit or crocheted track suits.
- **Value-Added Tax (VAT)**: There is no VAT on imports to the US, but there may be state sales tax depending on the destination.
### Comparison Table: Ocean vs. Air Freight
| Criteria | Ocean Freight | Air Freight |
|-------------------|-----------------|-----------------|
| **Cost** | $0.30-$0.50/kg | $3.00-$5.00/kg |
| **Transit Time** | 30-45 days | 7-10 days |
| **Suitability** | Bulk orders | Urgent orders |
For more information on shipping and logistics, visit our [Sportswear Manufacturer](/sportswear-manufacturer) page.
## MOQ and sampling timeline for US clients
One of the key differentiators at Alpinario is our zero MOQ policy. Whether you’re a small startup or a well-established brand, we can accommodate your needs.
### MOQ
- **Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)**: 1 piece for custom orders. For standard items, MOQ can be as low as 100 pieces.
- **Customization**: We offer full customization, including custom logos, embroidery, and printing, even for single pieces.
### Sampling Timeline
- **Initial Sample**: 3-7 days from order confirmation.
- **Production Sample for Medium Orders (300 pieces)**: 4-6 weeks from sample approval.
For instance, if you place an order for 300 yoga pants with custom logos, we will send you an initial sample within 3-7 days. Once approved, the production batch will be ready within 4-6 weeks.
For detailed information on our low MOQ options, check out our [Low MOQ Sportswear](/low-moq-sportswear) page.
## Payment & currency practices
At Alpinario, we offer flexible payment terms to ensure a smooth transaction process.
### Payment Terms
1. **Deposit**: 30% deposit upon order confirmation.
2. **Balance**: 70% balance before shipment.
3. **Accepted Payment Methods**: We accept wire transfers, PayPal, and credit cards.
### Currency
- **USD**: All transactions are in US dollars to avoid currency fluctuation risks.
- **Exchange Rate**: We use the exchange rate at the time of deposit for billing.
### Case Study: Payment for a 500-Piece Order
1. **Order Value**: $5,000
2. **Deposit**: 30% of $5,000 = $1,500
3. **Balance**: 70% of $5,000 = $3,500
4. **Payment Timeline**:
- Deposit: Within 3 days of order confirmation.
- Balance: Due 3 days before shipment.
## Case patterns from US orders
Over the years, we have handled a variety of orders from US brands. Here are a few common patterns:
### Case 1: Custom Yoga Wear for a New Startup
**Client**: A new health and wellness startup.
**Order**: 100 custom yoga pants with embroidered logos.
**Timeline**:
- Initial sample: 5 days
- Production: 5 weeks
### Case 2: Bulk Running Gear for a Gym Chain
**Client**: A nationwide gym chain.
**Order**: 1,000 running shorts and 1,000 running tops.
**Timeline**:
- Initial sample: 7 days
- Production: 6 weeks
### Case 3: FBA-Ready Gym Wear for an Amazon Seller
**Client**: An Amazon seller.
**Order**: 500 FBA-ready gym wear sets (leggings + sports bras).
**Timeline**:
- Initial sample: 3 days
- Production: 4 weeks
- Additional Step: Pre-labeling for FBA
For more detailed case studies and examples, visit our [Compression Shirts](/pages/compression-shirts) and [Yoga Wear Wholesale Guide](/pages/yoga-wear-wholesale-guide) pages.
## FAQ
**Do you ship DDP to US?**
Yes, we can ship DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to the US. This means we handle all customs clearance and duties, ensuring a hassle-free delivery to your warehouse or FBA center.
**What is the MOQ for US clients?**
The MOQ for US clients is 1 piece for custom orders. For standard items, the MOQ is 100 pieces.
**How long is sampling to US?**
Initial samples are shipped within 3-7 days from order confirmation. Production samples for medium orders (300 pieces) are ready within 4-6 weeks after sample approval.
## Request a Quote
Ready to take the next step? Whether you need custom sportswear for your brand or are looking for wholesale options, we’re here to help. [Request a quote](mailto:support@alpinario.com) today and let us assist you with your sportswear manufacturing needs.