When I create custom apparel for my customers, I don’t just focus on the design—I focus on the foundation: the blank apparel itself. A vibrant, durable DTF transfer needs an equally high-quality garment to live on. The fabric’s feel, the garment’s fit, and its ability to withstand wash after wash are just as crucial as the artwork it displays. That’s why I’m so selective about the brands I recommend.
After years in the custom apparel industry, I’ve found one brand that consistently delivers: Independent Trading Company. As the owner of Limitless Transfers, I trust their superior quality sweatshirts, hoodies, and fleece as the perfect canvas for my award-winning DTF transfers. Their commitment to quality ensures that my customers’ designs look incredible and that the final product feels premium and lasts. If you’re building an apparel brand, you know that quality is non-negotiable, and Independent Trading Company understands that better than anyone.
independent trading company logo from independent trading company
Who Is Independent Trading Company?
Independent Trading Company is a leading manufacturer and supplier in the blank apparel market, with an established reputation that dates back to 1987. Born from the action sports scene in Southern California, they’ve grown into a global powerhouse by focusing on one thing: creating top-tier blank apparel designed for customization, readily available, with constant new arrivals as they’ve evolved.
They offer an extensive collection of quality products, including their renowned hoodies, crew necks, sweat shorts, fleece bottoms, and jackets (all in different weight variations, neckline types, high-quality thread, and every size you can think of). Their mission is clear: to provide premium, performance-ready fleece and versatile blank styles that serve as the ideal foundation for screen printers, custom apparel brands, and small businesses. They understand that for creators like us, the blank garment is where it all begins. It has to be right, every single time.
Photo by Mediamodifier on Unsplash
Independent Trading Company’s Reputation & Mission
What truly sets Independent Trading Company apart is its unwavering commitment to superior quality and continuous innovation. They don’t just produce blank apparel; they craft it. Each collection is a testament to their dedication to human health, comfort, and durability. They know that a hoodie isn’t just a piece of clothing—it’s something people live in, work in, and love to wear.
Every style they release has been meticulously tested, refined, and produced to meet the high expectations of the custom printing world. Their fabrics are chosen for their smooth face, which allows for crisp, vibrant prints, and for their soft, comfortable feel. This attention to detail is why they’ve become a go-to supplier for screen printers, embroidery shops, and creative entrepreneurs worldwide. When you choose an Independent Trading Co. blank, you’re choosing a product that has been engineered for excellence, ensuring your custom apparel stands out in a crowded market.
Popular Products That Pair Perfectly With DTF Transfers
Independent Trading Company offers a huge range of styles, but a few stand out as perfect partners for DTF transfers. Their versatility, quality construction, and fantastic color options make them a favorite among my customers.
Blank Apparel Essentials: Hoodies and Crewnecks
When it comes to custom apparel, hoodies and crewneck sweatshirts are the undisputed champions. Independent Trading Company offers some of the best blank apparel essentials on the market, ready for your creative vision.
Their hoodies, like the iconic IND4000 Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie, are legendary in the industry. Made from a 10 oz. cotton/polyester blend with a 100% cotton face, this hoodie provides an ideal surface for DTF printing. The transfers adhere beautifully, resulting in sharp, vibrant colors that pop. It has a generous, comfortable fit and is built to last, with split-stitch double-needle sewing on all seams. My customers love the quality, feel, and durability, which reflects well on their brand.
Another fantastic option is the SS4500 Midweight Pullover Hoodie. At 8.5 oz., it’s a slightly lighter alternative that doesn’t sacrifice quality. It offers a classic fit and comes in a massive range of colors, giving designers endless creative freedom. Like the IND4000, it features a 100% cotton face, ensuring my DTF transfers look their best. The consistency across their collections means that whether you choose a heavyweight or midweight style, you’re getting the same superior quality. For those interested in sourcing bulk hoodies, these options offer both quality and style.
Sweat Shorts & Fleece Bottoms for Your Wholesale Account
Matching sets and streetwear-inspired collections are more popular than ever, and Independent Trading Company delivers with its line of sweat shorts and fleece bottoms. These aren’t just afterthoughts; they are thoughtfully designed pieces perfect for creating cohesive apparel lines.
The IND20SRT Midweight Fleece Shorts are a standout product. These shorts have a relaxed fit with a tapered knee opening, giving them a modern, stylish look. They are made from the same 8.5 oz. fleece as the SS4500 hoodie, making them perfect for creating matching sets. The fabric is soft and comfortable, ideal for both lounging indoors and everyday wear. The elastic waistband with a shoestring drawcord and jersey-lined pockets are quality details that customers appreciate. When paired with my DTF transfers, these shorts become premium, high-demand items for any apparel brand.
For cooler weather, the IND20PNT Midweight Jogger Sweatpants are a fantastic choice. They offer the same comfort and quality as the shorts, with a relaxed fit and 1×1 ribbing at the ankle cuffs for a modern jogger style. These are perfect for brands targeting the athleisure or streetwear market.
Jackets & Performance Fleece
For brands looking to offer more premium or specialized items, Independent Trading Company’s jackets and performance fleece are excellent choices. These durable, stylish blanks are ideal for high-value custom projects that require a rugged yet refined look.
The EXP54LWZ Windbreaker Lightweight Jacket, for example, is a versatile piece that takes DTF transfers beautifully. It’s perfect for creating branded team gear, promotional items, or stylish outerwear for your collection. The quality construction ensures that the jacket not only looks great but also performs well, protecting against wind and light rain. Their range of performance fleece also offers options for athletic brands or those looking to provide functional, comfortable layers.
Photo by Nikolai Ulltang on Pexels
Why I Choose Independent Trading Company for My Customers
As a supplier of award-winning DTF transfers, my reputation is on the line with every order. I need to know that the garments my customers are pressing my transfers onto are going to showcase them perfectly. Here’s why I consistently recommend Independent Trading Company:
- Superior Quality Blanks: Their commitment to quality is unmatched. The 100% cotton face on many of their fleece products creates a smooth, stable surface that ensures my DTF transfers look vibrant, feel soft, and last through countless washes.
- Consistency Across Collections: When a customer orders a hoodie and then comes back for sweat shorts, they want the same great feel and fit. Independent Trading Co. delivers that consistency, so my customers can build their collections with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect.
- A Wide Range of Styles: From the classic pullover hoodie to trendy oversized fits, fleece bottoms, and jackets, they have everything my diverse customer base asks for. This allows small businesses and established brands alike to find the perfect blanks for their niche.
- Reliability and Trust: With fast access through a wholesale account and a trusted reputation in the apparel market, they are a partner I can count on. This reliability allows me to serve my customers better, knowing that the foundation of their products is solid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Independent Trading Company
I get a lot of questions about the best blanks to use, and Independent Trading Co. often comes up. Here are some of the most common questions I answer for my customers.
What is Independent Trading Company?
Independent Trading Company is a leading manufacturer of high-quality blank apparel, specializing in sweatshirts, hoodies, fleece, and jackets. They have been serving the custom printing industry since 1987, providing premium blanks for screen printers, apparel brands, and small businesses worldwide.
Who owns Independent Trading Company?
Independent Trading Company is a privately owned and operated business. It was built by leaders in the apparel industry who remain deeply focused on producing quality products and driving innovation in blank apparel. Their hands-on approach is a key component of their success.
Is Independent Trading Company ethical?
Yes. They are committed to ethical manufacturing and follow strict sourcing and production standards. Independent Trading Co. is WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) Gold Certified, which ensures its facilities meet internationally recognized standards for social compliance. They are also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Certified, meaning their products have been tested for harmful substances and are safe for human health.
What is the revenue of Independent Trading Company?
While Independent Trading Company is privately held and doesn’t make its revenue public, its position as a world supplier and its growth in the blank apparel market speak to its stability and success. Data from RocketReach estimates their annual revenue to be around $18.1 million, highlighting their significant presence in the industry.
How Limitless Transfers Complements Independent Trading Company
A premium blank garment deserves a premium print. That’s where Limitless Transfers comes in. My award-winning, true hot-peel DTF transfers are designed to bring the superior quality blanks from Independent Trading Company to life. The soft-hand feel of my transfers preserves the comfortable texture of their fleece, while the vibrant CMYK+W colors ensure every design detail pops.
By pairing their high-quality hoodies, sweat shorts, and jackets with my transfers, I can guarantee my customers the best of both worlds: a top-tier print on a top-tier garment. With our same-day shipping and no minimum order requirements, I make it easy for small businesses and established print shops to combine the best blanks with the best transfers, creating custom apparel that truly stands out.
Related Resources
Looking for inspiration or ideas for your sweatshirt designs? Check out these helpful resources:
- Printing Techniques – Learn about different printing techniques like hot peel DTF transfers and direct-to-garment printing, and discover which method suits your design needs.
- Fabric Care Guide– Ensure your custom clothing stays vibrant and comfortable by following this fabric care guide, which provides tips on washing, drying, and storing your garments for longevity.
- Design Tips and Inspiration – Take your custom clothing designs to the next level with some design tips and inspiration. Discover techniques, color combinations, and design elements that will make your creations stand out and capture attention.
- Sizing Guide – Ensure a perfect fit for your custom clothing by referring to a comprehensive sizing guide. Find measurements for different garment types and styles to help you select the right size for yourself or your customers.
- FAQs – Get answers to common questions about custom clothing and service options that are out there.
Build Your Next Collection on a Foundation of Quality
For any apparel brand, success starts with a quality product. Independent Trading Company has proven time and again that they are the go-to brand for blank sweatshirts, hoodies, and fleece that meet the highest standards. Their dedication to comfort, durability, and printability makes them the perfect partner for any custom apparel project.
When you combine their exceptional blanks with the award-winning DTF printing technology from Limitless Transfers, the result is custom apparel that not only looks professional but also feels amazing to wear. You’re giving your customers a product they will love, which is the key to building a loyal following and a successful brand.
If you’re ready to create your next collection, choose Independent Trading Company blanks and let me supply the DTF transfers that bring your vision to life.
Ready to press? Order our award-winning hot peel DTF transfers and get them shipped today!
