Every time I ship garments overseas, especially to U.S. and European buyers, I know one small detail can make a big difference: the hanger. Many buyers underestimate this part of apparel shipping, but the wrong hanger can cause clothes to wrinkle, stretch, or arrive damaged. I have seen buyers lose sales simply because garments were not presented well upon arrival.
The top hangers for garment shipping balance durability, garment protection, and cost efficiency, ensuring clothes reach retailers in perfect condition.
Let me share the five best hanger types I recommend for international shipping and why each works well in different apparel categories.
1. Plastic Hangers
Plastic hangers are the most widely used option for shipping large garment volumes. They are lightweight, affordable, and strong enough for most casual wear.
Plastic hangers are cost-effective and versatile, making them ideal for bulk garment exports.
Why Are Plastic Hangers Popular?
They are durable, reusable, and resistant to moisture during long sea shipments. Many factories and retailers rely on them for T-shirts, polos, and blouses. Learn more about hanger types at Apparel Search.
Are They Eco-Friendly?
Not always. However, some suppliers now offer recyclable and biodegradable plastic hangers. For insights on sustainable hangers, check Sustainable Packaging Coalition.
2. Metal Hangers
Metal hangers are thin, strong, and great for saving space in bulk shipments. They are usually used for lightweight garments and dry-cleaned apparel.
Metal hangers offer strength with minimal space usage, making them practical for high-volume shipping.
What Garments Suit Metal Hangers?
They are best for shirts, blouses, and lightweight jackets. However, they may not be suitable for heavy garments. For more details, see Cleaners Supply hanger guide.
Are They Cost-Effective?
Yes. They are very inexpensive, especially in wire form. However, they can bend under heavy loads. More insights available from National Hanger Company.
3. Wooden Hangers
For luxury apparel shipments, wooden hangers are the gold standard. They protect shape and structure, especially for heavy garments like suits, coats, and outerwear.
Wooden hangers provide premium garment care and brand value, ideal for luxury fashion exports.
Why Choose Wooden Hangers?
They prevent sagging and wrinkling. Many luxury brands demand wooden hangers to ensure garments arrive retail-ready. Read more at Kirby Allison hanger guide.
Do They Increase Shipping Costs?
Yes, because of weight. But the added brand value often justifies the cost. Retailers of premium apparel prefer this option. See Butler Luxury Hangers.
4. Padded Hangers
Padded hangers are used for delicate fabrics like silk dresses, lingerie, and evening wear. They protect garments from stretching or tearing during transit.
Padded hangers offer gentle support and prevent delicate garments from losing shape.
Why Are Padded Hangers Essential?
Because luxury fabrics need extra care. The padding ensures garments stay wrinkle-free and undamaged. A good example is Container Store’s padded hangers.
Do They Work For All Shipping?
They are not suitable for bulk shipping due to higher cost and space requirements, but they are perfect for special collections. More examples at Wayfair padded hangers.
5. Clip Hangers
Clip hangers are best for bottoms like trousers, skirts, and shorts. The clips hold the garment securely, preventing creasing and slipping.
Clip hangers ensure bottoms arrive wrinkle-free and neatly aligned, ideal for retail-ready shipping.
How Do They Help In Shipping?
They eliminate the need for folding, which saves ironing time at retail. This is a major advantage for fast-moving apparel. See Only Hangers clip collection.
Are They Adjustable?
Yes. Clips can move to fit different garment widths, making them flexible. For details, visit Displays2Go hanger solutions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hanger is a small decision with a big impact. The right hanger ensures garments arrive in excellent condition, ready for display, and aligned with your brand’s value. Plastic and metal hangers are cost-efficient for bulk shipping, wooden hangers elevate luxury shipments, padded hangers protect delicate fabrics, and clip hangers secure bottoms effectively.
At Shanghai Fumao, we help U.S. buyers not only manufacture apparel but also source the right accessories like hangers for shipping. If you are planning your next collection, contact our Business Director, Elaine, at elaine@fumaoclothing.com and let us ensure your garments ship safely and stylishly.
