Starting a clothing reselling business — importing from Alliexpress or via IndiaMART and selling in Australia — can be profitable if done right. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored to your goal:
✅ Step 1: Market Research
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Identify your target audience: Women’s fashion? Streetwear? Budget-friendly or premium?
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Research demand: Check Amazon.au, eBay, The Iconic, and Google Trends for trending styles.
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Check competitors: See how other similar sellers are pricing, packaging, and marketing their items.
✅ Step 2: Finalize What to Sell
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T-shirts (printed, oversized, basic?)
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Hoodies (zip-up, pullover, seasonal?)
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Women’s wear (kurti sets, western tops, activewear?)
Choose a niche or signature line to stand out.
✅ Step 3: Find Reliable Suppliers on IndiaMART
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Search for vendors with:
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High ratings and verified badges
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MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) that suit your budget
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Clear shipping timelines
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Ask for:
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Full product catalogue
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Wholesale prices
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Custom branding options (if needed)
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Shipping costs to Australia (Air vs Sea)
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✅ Step 4: Legal Setup in Australia
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Register a business name with ASIC
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Apply for an ABN (Australian Business Number)
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Optional: Register for GST if expected turnover > $75,000/year
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Consider a simple sole trader structure to start
✅ Step 5: Build Your Brand & Storefront
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Create a logo, brand name, and social handles
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Choose a platform:
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Shopify (easy and scalable)
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Etsy (if doing handmade or Indian fusion wear)
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eBay/Amazon.au (for ready customer base)
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Instagram Shop + Facebook Marketplace
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✅ Step 6: Logistics & Pricing
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Choose shipping mode:
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Air shipping (faster, expensive) or sea freight (cheaper for bulk, slower)
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Estimate landed cost per item (product + shipping + customs + handling)
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Set retail price with 40–70% markup
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Use Australia Post or Sendle for local delivery
✅ Step 7: Marketing & Sales
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Run Instagram/Facebook ads targeting Australian shoppers
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Use local influencers to promote your brand
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Create seasonal offers, bundle deals
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Ask for reviews to build social proof
✅ Step 8: Track, Scale & Reinvent
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Use tools like Google Analytics and Shopify dashboard to track sales
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Restock top sellers and drop what doesn’t move
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Expand into custom printing, embroidery, or private label clothing
📦 Bonus Tips:
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Start with a small batch to test product-market fit.
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Create attractive packaging and include thank-you notes — it improves brand loyalty.
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Explore local markets or pop-up stalls to sell directly.
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Stay updated on import rules & duties at ABF.gov.au
