How to Become a Wholesale Apparel Supplier

A wholesale apparel supplier is a distributor who sells apparel in bulk to retail stores and warehouses. A wholesale supplier can work out of a large warehouse, or can even work out of home and do business over the Internet. 

1. Write up a business plan about how you want to run your business. Include all the little details, such as how much stock you want, where you will operate from, where you will get your startup capital and if you will need other workers are all good places to start.

2. Obtain a business license. You will need to apply with your local business office. You will most likely need to fill out paperwork, and pay a fee for your license.

3. Get your startup money. You can either apply for a small loan from a financial institution, fund the business yourself if you have the money saved or borrow from friends and family. Whichever way you decide to go, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each.

4. Decide what types of clothes you want to sell. Are you focusing on one age group such as supplying baby clothes, children clothes or teen clothes? Or maybe you want to focus on a certain type of clothing, such as exercise and sporting apparel? Or are you going to be
supplying a wide range of clothes for super stores?

5. Contact manufacturers of apparel. Depending on what types of clothes you want to sell, you may have to contact more than one manufacturer. Get price quotes for the bulk apparel and compare rates. Factor in any shipping and other fees to help you determine which
manufacturer will help you utilize your money the best.

6. Start small. Purchase just a small stash of clothing. As your business grows, you can always expand and build your stock.

7. Advertise your business. As a new supplier, you will want to differentiate yourself from the rest. You may want to offer specials or discounted prices in the beginning. Your goal is to get stores to buy from you, and to keep them coming back as a customer.