For an international underwear sample shipment, prepare a clear goods description, quantities, material information, accurate customs value and complete recipient details. Make the invoice, shipping label and enclosed sample list consistent. Calling a parcel samples does not explain what is inside or automatically remove customs requirements. Confirm the documents and import treatment for the destination with the carrier or customs adviser before dispatch, particularly when the parcel contains several different styles or materials.
Describe the garments beyond the word samples
FedEx's customs-document guidance recommends descriptions that identify what the goods are, how many there are, what they are made from and their intended use. Use the model number as an additional reference, not as a substitute for a plain description that a carrier or customs officer can understand.
A cotton women's brief such as DYS223 and a men's boxer brief such as M007 should remain distinguishable on the goods list. DYS323 includes a polyamide-spandex body and cotton gusset. Confirm the actual sample's construction and composition before using that information in shipping documents.
| Document detail | Prepare | Check against |
|---|---|---|
| Goods description | Garment type, material, quantity and sample purpose | The actual contents of the parcel |
| Model and version | Supplier model and sample-stage identifier | The buyer's development list |
| Value and currency | Accurate declared value using the applicable basis | Invoice and customs requirements |
| Origin and classification | Confirmed origin and destination-specific classification | Supplier records and customs advice |
| Recipient details | Name, address, contact and required importer information | Carrier booking and consignee confirmation |
Resolve missing material information before booking
The catalogue lists M007's body as polyester and spandex and its lining as modal, without exact percentages. Do not fill the gap with a guessed blend. Request the details needed for the actual shipment and retain them with the sample record.
Tariff classification can depend on construction, garment type, fibre content and destination rules. This guide does not assign one code to every underwear sample. Ask the carrier or customs adviser to confirm the appropriate classification and any additional information required.
Keep free samples and customs valuation separate
A supplier may charge for a sample or provide it without a sales charge, but that commercial arrangement does not by itself establish a zero customs value. Declare the goods accurately using the valuation basis applicable to the shipment. Avoid replacing a required description or value with a vague phrase such as gift.
Confirm who pays freight, duties, taxes and any clearance charges, and whether the consignee needs to act as importer. Do this before the package is collected so a sample needed for a fitting is not held while the parties resolve responsibility.
Make arrival useful for the development review
Attach an identifier to each sample without obscuring the area being evaluated. Include a list of model, size, colour, version and the purpose of the sample, such as fit review or final-material approval. A parcel containing several unlabelled garments creates avoidable uncertainty after delivery.
Share the tracking reference and keep the document set with the order record. On arrival, reconcile the contents with the list and record any damage or missing items before starting the fit review. Carrier transit estimates and customs processing should remain separate from the factory's sample-preparation time.
Sample-shipping questions
Are underwear samples always duty-free? No automatic exemption is assumed here. Treatment depends on the destination, goods and applicable procedure.
Can one parcel contain several models? It can be planned that way, subject to carrier and destination requirements. Describe the different goods accurately and reconcile the quantities.
Does DIYASI's sample timing include transit? Confirm this in the quotation. Preparation, dispatch, transport and customs are separate stages unless explicitly included.
Put your research to work
Confirm sample charges and timing ↗Prepare a component material specification ↗Keep sample versions in a technical pack ↗Discuss your sample request ↗Product sources
Product examples refer to the linked DIYASI source specifications. Confirm the final materials, measurements and availability for your selected sample.
M007 original product specification ↗DYS223 original product specification ↗DYS323 original product specification ↗Further references
FedEx: Customs documents and accurate goods descriptions ↗A starting point for your collection.
Share your selected model numbers, intended market and sample requirements with the DIYASI team.
Discuss your collection ↗
