In Kenya’s vibrant fashion scene, getting your designs from your workshop to your customer’s hands—whether in Nairobi or Nairobi to New York—is a craft on its own. Just like a well-tailored kitenge, your shipping process demands precision, care, and a touch of expertise.
The journey your apparel takes can span continents, and while timely delivery is essential, it’s equally important your customers receive their orders in perfect condition—ready to wear and impress. To help you achieve this, we’ve put together a straightforward guide covering everything from garment preparation to packaging, customs navigation, and sustainable delivery.
Let’s dive in.
Preparing Your Clothes for Shipment
How you prep your garments before sending them off can make all the difference. A neat, wrinkle-free package not only protects your products but also shows your customers you care.
Fold with Care
Different items call for different folding styles:
T-shirts and casual tops? Use the classic retail fold—lay flat, fold sleeves in, then fold vertically in thirds.
Shirts and blouses? Button them up and fold along the seams, slipping in tissue paper to keep creases at bay.
Pants and jeans? Fold lengthwise, then fold up from hem to waistband, adding tissue paper to keep them sharp.
Dresses and skirts? Fold at natural seams if hanging isn’t an option.
Knitwear? Avoid hanging; fold gently with tissue to keep shape and softness.
- For delicate fabrics and wedding dresses, don’t skimp on tissue paper—it’s your best friend.
Keep Shoes Separate
Shoes belong apart from clothes to avoid dirt and damage. Use dust bags or shoeboxes to keep their shape intact.
Guard Against Moisture
Throw in desiccant packets or waterproof barriers, especially for long-haul shipments or changing climates.
Presentation Matters
Ensure every garment is clean and wrinkle-free before packing. A quick inspection before sealing your package speaks volumes about your brand’s quality standards.
Choosing the Right Packaging
Packaging is more than protection—it’s your brand’s first impression in the hands of your customer.
Poly Mailers: Perfect for soft, non-fragile items like tees and sportswear. Lightweight and flexible, they help cut shipping costs.
Corrugated Cardboard Boxes: Ideal for bulkier or structured pieces like jackets or multiple items.
Garment Boxes: Best for formalwear such as suits or wedding dresses, allowing flat or hanger shipping to reduce wrinkles.
- Garment Bags: Use breathable bags inside boxes for wrinkle-prone or high-end items.
Kenyan customers, just like the rest of the world, increasingly appreciate eco-friendly packaging. Consider sustainable materials to show your commitment to the environment. Once packed, secure the shipping label clearly on the top surface of your package, and tuck in a spare label inside—just in case.
Labeling Your Shipment Right
Proper labeling keeps your shipment on track. Here’s how to get it right:
Attach the shipping label firmly on the top of the box, making sure it’s fully visible.
Avoid placing the label over seams or covering it with tape or other documents.
If other labels are needed, place them on different surfaces.
Include a spare label inside the package to help identify it should the outer label get damaged.
Use a clear, self-adhesive pouch for any external documents.
Navigating Customs for International Shipments
Cross-border shipping can get tricky, but being thorough with paperwork goes a long way to avoiding delays.
At minimum, ensure you have:
A detailed Commercial Invoice describing your goods.
Correct HS (Harmonized System) codes for apparel.
An Air Waybill listing shipment contents.
Take time to review all required documents carefully to keep your goods moving smoothly across borders.
Managing Costs When Shipping Clothes
Shipping costs depend on weight, size, destination, and delivery speed. Here’s how to keep things efficient:
Weights and Size
Minimize package size and weight by using snug, lightweight packaging like poly mailers whenever possible.
Combining Items
Combine multiple items into one shipment to lower per-item shipping fees.
Ship with DHL
Consider DHL Express’ Dynamic Discounting program—perfect for small businesses looking to save more as shipping volume grows. Talk to your local DHL representative for details.
Offer Tiered Options
Offer customers tiered shipping options—express for those in a hurry and economy for those willing to wait, balancing cost and service.
Sustainability
Don’t forget the sustainability factor—Kenyan consumers are leaning towards brands that care about the planet. DHL’s GoGreen Plus service offers an eco-friendly shipping option by using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. This service is flexible and ideal for businesses of all sizes aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.
Bringing It All Together
Shipping clothes isn’t just about moving products—it’s about delivering your promise of quality and care. By prepping your garments properly, choosing smart packaging, labeling accurately, navigating customs smoothly, and embracing green shipping practices, you set your brand apart and build lasting customer trust.
Ready to elevate your fashion business with seamless, sustainable shipping? Join forces with DHL. We offer competitive rates, speedy delivery, customs expertise, and trusted advice tailored for Kenyan businesses. Open your DHL Express Business Account today and start sending your creations to the world with confidence.
Whether you're sending out sweatshirts or silk dresses, there's always a more sustainable way to deliver. Explore carbon-friendly options like GoGreen Plus – and demonstrate your commitment to responsible, forward-thinking shipping.
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