If you are new to buying wholesale used clothing, the grade names can be confusing. Since 2010, CalTex Traders has shipped wholesale used clothing and second hand clothing bales in 40ft containers from California. These are the four grades buyers ask about most: credential clothing, mixed rags, sorted used clothing and closeout clothing.
What is credential clothing (original clothing)?
Credential clothing, also called original clothing, is untouched, unsorted used clothing in the same condition as it was donated. It is collected directly from individuals, clothing drop boxes and door-to-door pickup services, and nothing has been picked out. That makes credential clothing the first choice for graders and sorting plants that want raw, unpicked American clothing. It is available as baled credential clothing or loose.
What are mixed rags (institutional clothing)?
Institutional mixed rags are unsorted used clothing collected by charities, thrift stores and non-profit organizations across the USA. Each load is a mix of unsold thrift store clothing and fresh donations, also known as thrift surplus and salvage clothing. We supply mixed rags baled or loose, in full container loads.
What is sorted used clothing?
Sorted used clothing has been graded in our California warehouse. We can pack sorted bales of second hand clothing to match what sells in your market, so you spend less time and labor sorting after the container arrives.
What is closeout and store-return clothing?
Closeout, overstock and discontinued clothing are first-quality new merchandise, free of defects, liquidated at reduced prices. Availability changes, so ask us which closeout lots are available now.
Which used clothing grade should you choose?
If you run your own sorting operation, credential clothing or mixed rags give you the most to work with. If you want product ready to sell, sorted clothing saves labor. Every container can be a single grade or a mix of sorted and unsorted clothing, used shoes and other used goods. Buying for an African market? See used clothing for Africa.
Frequently asked questions
Is credential clothing the same as mixed rags?
No. Credential clothing is collected from individuals, drop boxes and door-to-door pickups with nothing picked out. Institutional mixed rags come from charities, thrift stores and non-profits and include unsold thrift store clothing.
Can I buy used clothing loose instead of baled?
Yes. Credential clothing and mixed rags are available baled or loose.
Can I mix grades in one container?
Yes. A container can be a single grade or a mix of sorted and unsorted clothing, used shoes and other used goods.
Ready to ask about a grade for your country? Read the wholesale used clothing FAQ, send us an inquiry, or message us on WhatsApp.
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