Step-by-step guide for brands and retailers on how to order custom printed t-shirts from Indian manufacturers — covering artwork requirements, print methods (screen, DTG, sublimation, discharge), sampling process, and international shipping documentation.
Ordering custom printed t-shirts from India in 2026 is easier than ever — but only if you know the process. As a leading t-shirt manufacturer in Tirupur, Esplandea Incorporation has helped hundreds of brands, retailers, and entrepreneurs place their first bulk order. Here is the complete step-by-step guide.
Before contacting any manufacturer, you need to define your specifications clearly. This includes: fabric type (100% cotton, poly-cotton, organic cotton), GSM (weight), colour, fit (regular, slim, oversized), print method (screen print, DTG, sublimation, embroidery), and quantity per colour/size.
Screen printing is the most cost-effective method for orders above 500 pieces per design. Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is better for photographic or full-colour designs in smaller quantities. Sublimation printing is used for all-over prints on polyester fabrics. Embroidery is the premium option for logos and branding on polo shirts and corporate t-shirts.
For screen printing and embroidery, you need vector artwork (AI, EPS, or PDF format) with a minimum resolution of 300 DPI. For DTG and sublimation, high-resolution PNG files with transparent backgrounds work best. Provide Pantone colour codes for accurate colour matching.
Always order a pre-production sample before approving bulk production. A sample allows you to verify fabric quality, print accuracy, sizing, and finishing. Sample lead time is typically 7–10 business days.
Specify your packaging requirements: individual polybags, size stickers, custom hang tags, woven labels, and carton markings. For export orders, confirm whether you need EAN barcodes, country of origin labels, and care instruction labels.
For large orders, sea freight from Tirupur to major global ports takes 18–35 days depending on the destination. Air freight takes 5–8 days but costs significantly more. Esplandea Incorporation works with trusted freight forwarders and can handle FOB, CIF, and DDP shipments.
Ordering custom printed t-shirts from India in 2026 is a straightforward process when you work with an experienced manufacturer. Esplandea Incorporation has been exporting custom printed t-shirts to 30+ countries since 2008. Contact us today for a free quote and sample.