Overview
T-shirts are a staple of casual wear worldwide, characterized by their short sleeves, round neckline, and lightweight fabric. Originating as undergarments in the late 19th century, T-shirts have evolved into a versatile garment worn by all ages and genders. They are known for their comfort, simplicity, and ease of customization, making them a popular choice for everyday wear, sports, and promotional items.
Production in China
China is a major producer of T-shirts, accounting for approximately 40-50% of the global supply. The key provinces involved in T-shirt manufacturing include:
- Guangdong Province: Known for its extensive textile and garment industry.
- Zhejiang Province: Renowned for its large number of apparel factories.
- Jiangsu Province: A major hub for textile production.
- Fujian Province: Another significant player in the garment manufacturing sector.
- Shandong Province: Emerging as a competitive region for textile and garment production.
Types of T-Shirts
1. Basic T-Shirts
Overview
Basic T-shirts are the quintessential casual wear item, featuring a simple design, short sleeves, and a round neckline. They are made from various fabrics, primarily cotton or cotton blends, and are available in a wide range of colors and sizes.
Target Audience
Basic T-shirts are aimed at a broad audience, including men, women, and children of all ages. They are perfect for everyday casual wear, layering, and as a blank canvas for customization.
Major Materials
- 100% cotton
- Cotton-polyester blends
- Organic cotton
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $5 – $15
- Carrefour: €4 – €12
- Amazon: $5 – $20
Wholesale Prices in China
$1 – $5
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
500 units
2. Graphic T-Shirts
Overview
Graphic T-shirts feature printed designs, logos, or artwork. They are popular for expressing individuality, brand promotion, and artistic expression. The prints can be screen-printed, heat-transferred, or digitally printed.
Target Audience
Graphic T-shirts appeal to a wide demographic, including teenagers, young adults, and fans of particular brands, bands, or artists. They are ideal for casual wear, events, and promotional purposes.
Major Materials
- 100% cotton
- Cotton-polyester blends
- Polyester
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $10 – $30
- Carrefour: €8 – €25
- Amazon: $10 – $35
Wholesale Prices in China
$3 – $10
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
300 units
3. Polo T-Shirts
Overview
Polo T-shirts, also known as polo shirts, have a collar, a placket with buttons, and sometimes a pocket. They are considered a step up from basic T-shirts in terms of formality and are often used for uniforms and casual business wear.
Target Audience
Polo T-shirts are targeted at adults and teenagers, particularly those in casual business settings, sports teams, and as school uniforms.
Major Materials
- 100% cotton
- Cotton-polyester blends
- Performance fabrics (e.g., moisture-wicking polyester)
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $15 – $50
- Carrefour: €12 – €45
- Amazon: $15 – $60
Wholesale Prices in China
$5 – $20
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
200 units
4. Long Sleeve T-Shirts
Overview
Long sleeve T-shirts extend to the wrists and are suitable for cooler weather. They can be plain or feature graphic designs and come in various fits, including regular and slim.
Target Audience
Long sleeve T-shirts are aimed at men, women, and children looking for casual wear options during cooler seasons or for layering purposes.
Major Materials
- 100% cotton
- Cotton-polyester blends
- Thermal fabrics
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $10 – $25
- Carrefour: €8 – €22
- Amazon: $10 – $30
Wholesale Prices in China
$3 – $10
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
300 units
5. V-Neck T-Shirts
Overview
V-neck T-shirts have a V-shaped neckline, offering a stylish alternative to the traditional round-neck T-shirt. They are available in various fits and fabrics.
Target Audience
V-neck T-shirts are popular among fashion-conscious individuals, both men and women, who want a versatile and slightly more stylish casual wear option.
Major Materials
- 100% cotton
- Cotton-polyester blends
- Organic cotton
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $8 – $20
- Carrefour: €6 – €18
- Amazon: $8 – $25
Wholesale Prices in China
$2 – $8
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
300 units
6. Henley T-Shirts
Overview
Henley T-shirts feature a buttoned placket without a collar, offering a unique and slightly more formal look than basic T-shirts. They come in short and long sleeve versions.
Target Audience
Henley T-shirts are targeted at adults who want a stylish yet comfortable alternative to basic and polo T-shirts. They are suitable for casual and semi-casual occasions.
Major Materials
- 100% cotton
- Cotton-polyester blends
- Thermal fabrics
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $15 – $40
- Carrefour: €12 – €35
- Amazon: $15 – $45
Wholesale Prices in China
$5 – $15
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
200 units
7. Performance T-Shirts
Overview
Performance T-shirts are designed for athletic and active use. They are made from moisture-wicking, breathable, and often stretchy fabrics to enhance comfort and performance during physical activities.
Target Audience
Performance T-shirts are aimed at athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals who participate in outdoor activities and sports.
Major Materials
- Polyester
- Spandex blends
- Moisture-wicking fabrics
Retail Price Ranges
- Walmart: $10 – $35
- Carrefour: €8 – €30
- Amazon: $10 – $40
Wholesale Prices in China
$3 – $15
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)
300 units
Ready to source T-shirts from China?
Major Manufacturers in China
1. Shenzhou International Group Holdings Limited
Shenzhou International Group, headquartered in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, is one of the largest vertically integrated knitwear manufacturers in China. The company produces a wide range of T-shirts for global brands like Nike, Adidas, and Uniqlo. Shenzhou International is known for its advanced manufacturing processes, high-quality products, and commitment to sustainability. The company operates several large-scale production facilities across China, ensuring efficient and high-capacity manufacturing.
2. Esquel Group
Esquel Group, based in Guangdong Province, is a leading global textile and apparel manufacturer. The company is renowned for its high-quality T-shirts, catering to premium brands like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger. Esquel emphasizes sustainable practices, including eco-friendly manufacturing processes and renewable energy use. The company’s vertically integrated operations, from cotton farming to finished garments, ensure full control over product quality and environmental impact.
3. Jiangsu Sunshine Group
Jiangsu Sunshine Group, located in Jiangsu Province, is a major player in the textile and garment industry. The company produces a variety of apparel, including T-shirts, for domestic and international markets. Jiangsu Sunshine is known for its innovation in textile manufacturing, incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices. The company’s extensive production capabilities and focus on quality make it a reliable supplier for many global brands.
4. Youngor Group Co., Ltd.
Youngor Group, based in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, is a prominent textile and garment manufacturer. The company produces a wide range of apparel, including high-quality T-shirts. Youngor is known for its strong emphasis on quality control and innovation, integrating advanced manufacturing technologies into its production processes. The company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned it a strong reputation in the industry.
5. Huafu Top Dyed Melange Yarn Co., Ltd.
Huafu, headquartered in Zhejiang Province, specializes in producing high-quality, dyed yarns used in T-shirt manufacturing. The company supplies yarn to various garment manufacturers, ensuring consistent quality and vibrant colors in the finished products. Huafu is known for its advanced dyeing techniques and sustainable practices, reducing environmental impact while maintaining high product standards.
6. Texhong Textile Group Limited
Texhong Textile Group, based in Shanghai, is a leading manufacturer of textile products, including fabrics for T-shirts. The company operates several large-scale production facilities across China, focusing on innovative textile solutions and sustainable practices. Texhong’s commitment to quality and efficiency makes it a key supplier for many apparel brands worldwide.
7. Luthai Textile Co., Ltd.
Luthai Textile, located in Shandong Province, is a renowned textile manufacturer specializing in high-quality fabrics for T-shirts and other apparel. The company emphasizes innovation and sustainability, integrating advanced technologies into its production processes. Luthai’s extensive experience and focus on quality make it a trusted supplier for many global brands.
Major Points for Quality Control
1. Material Inspection
Ensuring the quality of materials used in T-shirt manufacturing is critical. This involves checking the specifications of fabrics, including fiber content, weight, and color consistency. High-quality materials contribute to the durability and comfort of the T-shirts, enhancing their appeal to consumers.
2. Fabric Testing
Fabric testing includes evaluating the fabric’s shrinkage, colorfastness, and pilling resistance. These tests ensure that the T-shirts maintain their shape, color, and appearance after washing and wearing. Fabric testing helps prevent defects and ensures the longevity of the product.
3. Seam Strength Testing
Seam strength testing involves evaluating the durability of the seams to ensure they can withstand regular wear and washing. This includes checking the stitching quality, seam allowances, and reinforcement in high-stress areas. Strong seams enhance the overall quality and durability of the T-shirts.
4. Visual Inspection
Visual inspection is conducted at various stages of production to identify any visible defects, such as holes, stains, or misalignments. This helps ensure that only high-quality T-shirts reach the final stages of production and are shipped to customers.
5. Fit and Size Verification
Ensuring that T-shirts conform to the specified sizes and fit is crucial for customer satisfaction. This involves checking the measurements of each size and comparing them to the standard size charts. Consistent sizing helps build customer trust and reduces the likelihood of returns.
6. Final Quality Inspection
Before shipping, a final quality inspection is conducted to ensure that each T-shirt meets the company’s standards and customer expectations. This includes checking the T-shirt’s appearance, functionality (e.g., zippers and buttons if applicable), and packaging. The final quality inspection helps ensure that only high-quality products reach the customers.
Recommended Shipping Options
For shipping T-shirts from China to international markets, several options are recommended:
- Air Freight: Ideal for small to medium-sized shipments that need to be delivered quickly. Air freight is faster but more expensive compared to other methods. It is suitable for high-value or time-sensitive products.
- Sea Freight: Suitable for large shipments that are not time-sensitive. Sea freight is more cost-effective for bulk orders but takes longer to reach the destination. It is ideal for cost-sensitive shipments with longer lead times.
- Express Couriers: Companies like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer express shipping services for urgent deliveries. They provide reliable and fast delivery options, but at a higher cost. Express couriers are best for small, high-value shipments requiring quick delivery.
Choosing the appropriate shipping method depends on the shipment size, budget, and delivery timeframe. It is essential to consider these factors to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of T-shirts.
