Dye chemistry determines what fibres can be dyed, colour fastness, sustainability claims, and cost. Buyers who understand the basics avoid common pitfalls when specifying colour or verifying certifications.
Reactive Dyes (Cotton, Rayon, Cellulosics)
- Best colour fastness for cotton
- GOTS-compliant (positive list dyes available)
- Requires salt during application
- Water-intensive (major sustainability concern)
Acid Dyes (Wool, Silk, Nylon)
- Standard for protein fibres and nylon
- Good colour fastness
- Lower environmental impact than reactive
Disperse Dyes (Polyester, Synthetic)
- Only viable option for polyester
- High temperature required
- Some restricted chemistries (AZO, heavy metals) โ must verify OEKO-TEX class
Natural Dyes
- Indigo (blue), madder (red), turmeric (yellow), pomegranate (yellow-brown)
- Premium eco-positioning
- Lower colour fastness than synthetics
- Higher cost, artisan-paced production
Colour Fastness Ratings (AATCC/ISO)
Grade 1 (poor) to Grade 5 (excellent):
- Wash fastness: 4+ acceptable for retail
- Rub fastness: 4+ acceptable
- Light fastness: 4+ for outdoor/window-facing
- Perspiration fastness: 4+ for skin-contact items
Certifications & Compliance
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (chemistry restrictions)
- GOTS (restricts to positive-list dyes)
- bluesign (broader environmental)
- ZDHC MRSL (manufacturing restricted substances)
Frequently Asked Questions
What payment terms are standard for Indian textile imports?
Standard payment structure is 30% advance via TT (telegraphic transfer) plus 70% against copy of bill of lading. Letters of credit (LC) are recommended for first-time relationships or large orders ($50,000+). Established repeat buyers can negotiate DA/DP terms or open account. Avoid 100% advance payment except for very small sample orders.
How do I verify an Indian supplier before placing a large order?
Verify: IEC code (Indian Import-Export Code from DGFT), GST registration, physical factory address (via video call or third-party visit), references from 2+ existing international customers, SEDEX or BSCI social audit, relevant OEKO-TEX/GOTS scope certificates. Pre-shipment inspection is essential โ budget $250โ500 per shipment via SGS, Intertek or Bureau Veritas.
What HS code applies to my product for import duty?
HS code depends on fibre composition and construction. Silk items are Chapter 50; wool Chapter 51; cotton Chapter 52; knitted apparel Chapter 61; woven apparel Chapter 62; home textiles Chapter 63. Get a formal HS code determination from your destination customs broker before first import โ mis-classification causes customs delays and unexpected duty charges.
Can Indian suppliers ship directly to my end customer (dropshipping)?
Yes, dropshipping from India is technically possible. But it comes with challenges: 14โ35 day sea transit customer expectation management, unexpected destination duty charges, complex returns handling, quality control gaps per shipment. For most brands, a wholesale-import-then-fulfil model produces better customer experience than pure dropshipping.
Related Reading
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About Blueridge Trade LLP
Blueridge Trade LLP operates a dual business model. Our textile division is a direct manufacturer โ we own and operate the production of our cashmere, Merino wool, silk, organic cotton, and blended fabric programmes, controlling quality from fibre sourcing through finishing. This vertical integration is what allows us to guarantee Grade A specifications and offer competitive private-label terms to international brands.
Beyond textiles, we operate as a trading and sourcing partner for industrial commodities (copper, aluminium, zinc, tin, tungsten scrap, activated carbon), botanicals and spices, export-grade packaging, and consumables. In these categories we leverage a vetted network of Indian producers rather than manufacturing in-house โ giving international buyers a single consolidated point of contact for both textile manufacturing and broader Indian sourcing requirements.