If you want to import kurtas to the USA or import sarees to the USA, three things need settling before you order: how the goods will be classified for duty, how they will be labelled, and how the sizes will work for your customers. Canada follows a similar pattern with its own labelling rules.
Ethnic wear is sold to a diaspora customer who knows the product, so correct sizing and fabric quality matter as much as the paperwork.
Duty classification
Customs authorities classify garments by fibre, construction and type. A kurta that is knitted falls in a different group from one that is woven, and a saree is treated according to its fabric. The duty depends on that classification, on the fibre mix and on whether any trade preference or extra tariff applies to Indian goods at the time.
We do not state rates, because they change. Ask your customs broker to classify your product and, if the amount at stake is large, to request a binding ruling from the customs authority. The same garment described loosely on an invoice can be classified differently, so give the factory exact descriptions. See the document pack your broker will ask for.
Labels for the US
Garments sold in the US need a label showing fibre content, country of origin and the business identity, which can be an RN number. Apparel also needs care instructions under the Care Labeling Rule. Read care labelling rules for garments in the US, UK and EU and country of origin marking for textiles from India.
Silk, cotton and blends must be described accurately. Do not label a fabric as silk unless it is, and have the fibre tested if the seller is a trader.
Labels for Canada
Canada has its own textile labelling law. Fibre content must be shown in both English and French, and the label must identify the dealer. Care labelling is voluntary under Canadian law but customary, using the standard symbols. Rules for country of origin differ from the US, so confirm the wording with your broker or the relevant Canadian authority.
Sizing and product details
Kurtas are often sold in US S to XL or in numeric sizes, so agree a size chart and measure the finished garment. Define length, since kurtas run from tunic to knee length, and sleeve and slit details. Sarees are normally one size, about five to six metres long, usually with a blouse piece, so state the length, blouse piece and border width in the specification.
Kurtas and Indian ethnic wear explains who buys what. For wholesale buying, see how to buy wholesale kurtas from India.
Colour and print also need care, because customers compare against photographs. Approve a sample of each print and keep a sealed copy, and check that bulk matches it, especially for hand-dyed or block-printed lots where some variation is natural. Tell your customers what variation to expect rather than hiding it.
Next step
We find and audit manufacturers, check samples and documents, and supervise production and loading, while your broker confirms classification and duty. Book a free sourcing review and send us your styles and size chart.