Is starting a business in the designer apparel industry that difficult? In the past, it may have been one of the most challenging tasks. Nowadays? You have options that make the process simpler and more doable regardless of your capital.
You can start a business by selling designer clothes or name-brand apparel when relying on liquidation pallets. They are a smart move as they bring a large amount of inventory and for a fraction of what you would usually pay.
Liquidation pallets are large lots of clothing sold at a discount. This is due to stores having too much stock, items are out of season, or they are customer returns.
But how do you find these pallets?
While the idea is there and you can consider the expenses and capital needed, how can you start spending without an idea of where?
Here, we want to share the step-by-step process to source designer apparel liquidation pallets in 2025. Coastal Surplus Solutions has been working in the industry for a long time. hence, we understand what needs to be done and how for your business to start and thrive.
Number 1: Understand What’s in a Designer Apparel Pallet
You know what you want, but do you know if you will get it?
Designer apparel liquidation pallets can include a mix of many items. Men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing. All of them ranging in sizes, materials, and style.
The same happens with accessories, shoes, and bags. You will find a wide variety that establishes how your business can jump from the moment you acquire the pallet.
The essential aspect you need to know is that most of these items often come from well-known brands or luxury designers.
Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Levi’s, or even high-end department stores can be on the pallet. Many pallets are also shelf pulls, meaning those items have been taken off store shelves and are often in good condition.
Number 2: Research Reliable Suppliers
Take your time researching and working through the process.
You want to find trusted suppliers to avoid scams and low-quality goods. While you may pay more for certain pallets, it will be worth it when considering the quality and the way the entire pallet is mixed with valuable items.
You can identify suppliers by reading customer reviews, checking the company’s track record, and discussing with other clients.
In this case, networking will be a best friend, as other clients and sellers can share their experiences.
Number 3: Compare Costs and Set a Budget
Designer apparel pallets are often more expensive than the standard. It all depends on the size and the investment you want to make here.
According to FasterCapital, there are many options when it comes to liquidators and pallets. There is nothing wrong with taking your time and establishing an estimate along with an overall value.
You want to go for the estimated resale value of the items inside as well. This makes it more valuable to take your time through the process.
Number 4: Know What to Look For
Condition, brand mix, seasonality, and accessories all matter.
You want to know the exact condition and status of the items, be it because they are old or not. Are they overstock or shelf pulls?
All the information regarding your items will be crucial to determine the resale price. You want to stick to mostly new or shelf-pull items, while going for a nice mix of well-known designer labels and in-house brands.
During this step, you want to focus on inspecting and negotiating the pallets.
don’t be afraid to negotiate price or shipping terms, especially if you’re buying in bulk or planning repeat purchases.
Number 5: Plan for Resale
At this stage, you can inspect all items for quality, categorize them, and sort everything for sale.
Take the time to check prices, see the average cost of each piece, and establish your store.
At Coastal Surplus Solutions, we can make this process much easier as we source goods, streamline logistics, and handle all shipping.
Feel free to contact us to have professionals and guaranteeing your investment.
