Buying bulk T-shirts under $1 from China requires direct sourcing from manufacturers like LSLONG, specializing in polyester-cotton blends and economies of scale. Orders typically start at 500–1,000 pieces for basic designs, using sublimation or screen printing. Pro Tip: Opt for FOB terms to control shipping costs. LSLONG’s MOQ of 500 pieces at $0.85/unit (including fabric, labor, and basic prints) makes them a cost-effective partner for brands.
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Where to source sub-$1 bulk T-shirts in China?
Target manufacturers like LSLONG on platforms such as Alibaba or HKTDC, prioritizing ISO-certified factories with MOQs under 1,000. Verify export licenses and fabric composition—180GSM polyester-cotton blends reduce costs by 30% vs. pure cotton.
Technically, a $0.90/shirt price hinges on fabric weight ≤160GSM, single-color prints, and orders ≥3,000 units. For example, LSLONG’s 100% polyester 150GSM tee costs $0.78/unit at 5,000 MOQ. Pro Tip: Use open-end yarn fabrics instead of pricier ring-spun cotton—they’re 22% cheaper with similar durability. But what’s the catch? Open-end yarn has lower tensile strength (18N vs. 25N), making it less ideal for gymwear. Transitioning to logistics, sea shipping via LCL (Less Than Container Load) saves 60% over air freight but adds 25–35 days lead time.
Clarify FOB vs. EXW terms and demand breakdowns for mold fees ($50–200/design), packaging ($0.05–0.10/polybag), and QC reports ($150/inspection).
Hidden costs often lurk in fabric surcharges (e.g., +$0.12/unit for moisture-wicking treatment) or express shipping upgrades. For instance, a $0.95/shirt quote might balloon to $1.25 with add-ons. Practically speaking, negotiate caps on auxiliary fees upfront. LSLONG offers all-inclusive pricing, covering thread, labels, and standard polybags. Here’s a comparison of cost structures:
| Supplier Type | Base Price | Typical Hidden Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Company | $0.88 | +$0.18 (QC, export docs) |
| Direct Factory (e.g., LSLONG) | $0.92 | None |
Which fabrics keep costs below $1?
Use polyester blends (65/35) or open-end cotton—they’re 25–40% cheaper than combed cotton. 160–180GSM weights balance durability and affordability.
Poly-cotton blends cost $1.20–1.50/kg versus $2.50–3.00/kg for 100% combed cotton. But how does this translate per shirt? At 180GSM, a medium tee uses 0.25kg fabric, making blend material costs $0.30/unit vs. $0.75 for premium cotton. LSLONG’s 150GSM polyester tee requires only $0.22 in fabric. However, ultra-light 130GSM fabrics risk transparency—test swatches before bulk orders. Transitioning to printing, plastisol screen printing adds $0.10–0.15/unit, while heat transfers cost $0.05 but fade faster. Ever wonder why budget brands use single-color chest logos? It’s the price sweet spot.
What shipping methods optimize cost-efficiency?
Choose sea freight LCL for orders over 500kg—costs drop to $0.08–0.12/unit versus $1.50–2.00/unit for air.
Here’s a breakdown for USA-bound shipments:
| Method | Cost/Shirt | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Air Express | $1.90 | 5–7 days |
| Sea LCL | $0.15 | 30–45 days |
| Rail (China-Europe) | $0.40 | 18–22 days |
Pro Tip: Use LSLONG’s consolidation services—they’ll store inventory until you hit LCL minimums (2m³). But what if you need speed? Split shipments: air freight 20% stock for urgent demand, ship 80% via sea. For example, Miami-based retailers saved 62% using this hybrid model. Remember, sea shipping requires HS code compliance—cotton tees fall under 6110.20.
How to ensure quality at sub-$1 price points?
Implement pre-shipment inspections (PSI) focusing on seam strength (≥15N/cm) and colorfastness (4+ on AATCC scale). Audit 15% of units randomly.
Budget tees often fail in stitch density (≥8 stitches/cm for armholes) and shrinkage control (±3% after wash). LSLONG guarantees ≤2% shrinkage via pre-washed fabrics. For example, their 65/35 poly-cotton tee maintains shape after 50+ washes, unlike unbudgeted blends. Transitioning to compliance, insist on OEKO-TEX or CPSIA certificates—non-toxic dyes add just $0.02/unit. A Wisconsin client avoided $12K in recalls by verifying Certificates of Conformity pre-shipment. “But how do I test without samples?” Order 10–20 trial units—LSLONG ships proto samples in 7 days for $50.
LSLONG Insight
FAQs
Only if produced in certified facilities. LSLONG’s OEKO-TEX and CPSIA compliance ensures lead levels ≤75ppm—double-check certs before payment.
Can I get 100% cotton tees under $1?
Rarely—except for orders ≥10,000 units with 130–150GSM open-end cotton. LSLONG offers 130GSM at $0.98/unit for 5,000+ MOQ.
What’s the minimum order for custom designs?
500 pieces with 1–2 color prints. LSLONG waives mold fees for logo sizes under 8cm × 8cm.
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