A Trusted Name in Quality Wholesale Apparel Introduction In the dynamic world of fashion and custom branding, where quality and consistency are paramount, one company has emerged as a beacon of reliability — Independent Trading Company (ITC). Founded in 1987 in California, Independent Trading Co. has grown into one of the most trusted names in the wholesale apparel industry. From screen printers and embroidery shops to established clothing brands, ITC garments are a go-to choice for those looking to blend premium feel, modern cuts, and long-lasting durability.
This article explores the journey, product offerings, values, innovations, and industry impact of Independent Trading Company, while shedding light on why it remains a preferred choice among custom clothing creators and businesses alike.
The Foundation of Independent Trading Co.
The origins of Independent Trading Company can be traced back to its roots in the surf, skate, and action sports community of Southern California. The brand was launched with the vision of creating high-quality fleece sweatshirts for athletes, surfers, and creatives looking for a blank canvas to showcase their personal or brand identity.
What started as a small-scale operation quickly evolved into a full-service wholesale manufacturer with global distribution. The company’s success came from its deep understanding of market needs — especially the demand for reliable, well-fitting blank apparel that could stand up to both heavy use and detailed customization.
Wide Product Range
1.Premium Sweatshirts & Hoodies
Independent Trading Company is best known for its heavyweight fleece hoodies, especially the popular IND4000 — a 10 oz. sweatshirt that’s a favorite for screen printing and embroidery. Made with ring-spun cotton, these garments are soft, warm, and built to last.
They also offer lightweight hoodies, zip-up styles, raglans, and pigment-dyed options, catering to a wide variety of tastes and climates.
2.Outerwear and Jackets
From water-resistant windbreakers to quilted canvas workwear jackets, Independent Trading Co. has expanded its lineup to include functional outerwear that performs outdoors while keeping style intact. Many jackets come with features like drawstring hoods, zippered pockets, and adjustable cuffs — making them ideal for both city streets and rugged settings.
3.T-Shirts and Tees
Although known for fleece, Independent Trading Co. also offers high-quality cotton and blended t-shirts. Their tees are made with combed ring-spun cotton and feature tailored cuts that are both flattering and comfortable — ideal for custom branding.
4.Women’s Apparel
The company doesn’t ignore fit-specific needs either. Their women’s line includes cropped hoodies, slim-cut sweatshirts, and fitted zip-ups, offering style with substance. These designs maintain the same level of quality while providing modern silhouettes women appreciate.
5.Accessories and Youth Wear
Independent Trading Co. has also introduced youth-sized products, headwear, and other accessories to meet the needs of family-focused or broad-market brands.
Customization Capabilities
One of the major reasons for ITC’s popularity is its apparel’s compatibility with screen printing, embroidery, DTG (direct-to-garment) printing, and heat transfer methods. Whether it’s a small local brand or a national chain, decorators choose Independent products because:
The fabric resists shrinkage and holds prints well
The colors are consistent across large batches
The garments offer tear-away tags for easy rebranding
Some products also include private label options, giving companies the ability to create fully custom merchandise under their own brand identity.
Distribution and Global Reach
Independent Trading Company has a vast distribution network. Their products are available through multiple wholesale platforms including:
S&S Activewear
TSC Apparel
Alpha Broder
Shirt Space
Bulk Apparel
With warehouses in California, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Georgia, they ensure quick delivery and large inventory availability, even during peak seasons.
The company partners with distributors in Europe, Australia, and Asia, establishing itself as a global player in wholesale apparel.
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Commitment to Quality
From the selection of raw materials to final stitching, quality control is central to the Independent Trading Co. approach. Their fleece garments are known for:
Brushed interiors for softness
Durable stitching and ribbed cuffs
Consistent sizing and specs
Colorfast dyes that resist fading
Each batch is inspected for flaws before leaving the warehouse, ensuring that customers receive only the best — every time.
Sustainability and Ethical Manufacturing
In an age where environmental and ethical concerns are top-of-mind, Independent Trading Co. is taking active steps to improve sustainability:
Partnering with factories that follow WRAP-certified ethical labor practices
Reducing waste in the production process
Offering eco-friendly fleece options made from recycled polyester
While the fashion industry is often criticized for its carbon footprint, ITC is working to lead by example by focusing on sustainable sourcing and long-term product durability.
Brand Collaborations and Industry Influence
Over the years, Independent Trading Company has become the blank canvas of choice for thousands of brands — from streetwear startups to multi-million-dollar labels. Their products have appeared in:
Music tour merchandise
Influencer drops
Campus apparel
Coffee shop uniforms
Limited edition artist col labs
Their versatile cuts and superior comfort make their blanks ideal for anyone building a clothing brand.
Why Choose Independent Trading Co.?
✔️ Premium feel at competitive prices
✔️ Reliable stock and fast delivery
✔️ Durable, printer-friendly fabrics
✔️ Sustainable and ethical practices
✔️ Wide range of styles for all genders and age groups
Whether you’re starting a new apparel line or looking to upgrade your current merch, Independent Trading Company offers professional-grade apparel with flexibility and flair.
Conclusion
Independent Trading Company has earned its reputation not by following trends, but by consistently delivering quality, reliability, and versatility in every product. With over three decades of experience, they remain the silent backbone behind countless successful clothing lines and promotional campaigns around the world.
In a market flooded with short-lived, low-quality apparel, Independent Trading Co. stands firm — offering timeless value, one hoodie at a time.