How to Import Tarpaulin from China: Step-by-Step Guide
Importing tarpaulin from China is one of the most strategic choices for distributors, wholesalers, construction contractors, and industrial users seeking high-quality PVC tarpaulin at competitive prices. China is the world’s largest production base for tarpaulin, especially for PVC coated fabric, laminated tarpaulin, truck cover fabric, billboard flex banner, industrial waterproof tarps and more.
As a leading manufacturer with 20+ years of production experience, DERFLEX provides a full guide on how to import tarpaulin from China safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. This article covers the entire process from sourcing, price negotiation, quality control, documents, logistics, customs clearance, and installation tips—allowing you to import like a professional buyer.
Why Import Tarpaulin from China?
China offers a complete supply chain for tarpaulin fabrics. From PVC resin to knife-coating machines, Chinese factories have built mature systems that reduce manufacturing cost while increasing product quality. Importing tarpaulin from China brings the following benefits:
- Lower factory prices due to large-scale manufacturing
- Wide product range from lightweight to heavy-duty tarp fabric
- Large production capacity ensuring stable supply
- Strict quality control from top manufacturers like DERFLEX
- Customizable colors, width, GSM, and performance
- Full export documentation and shipping support
These advantages make China the preferred sourcing destination for tarpaulin buyers globally.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import Tarpaulin from China
1. Identify Your Tarpaulin Requirements
Before contacting suppliers, define your exact requirements:
- Material: PVC laminated / PVC coated / PE tarp / industrial fabric
- GSM (weight): 300gsm–2000gsm depending on usage
- Width & length: standard or customized
- Color: blue, green, white, black, grey, red, yellow etc.
- Surface finish: matte / gloss / anti-UV / flame retardant / anti-mildew
- Application: trucks, construction, agriculture, billboard, mining, tents
Knowing your product specification in advance helps suppliers quote accurately.
2. Find Reliable Tarpaulin Manufacturers in China
The most critical step is choosing a professional manufacturer. Leading factories like DERFLEX focus on export-grade materials with consistent quality. When evaluating suppliers, consider:
- Years of manufacturing experience
- Factory certification (ISO, SGS, RoHS, REACH)
- Export experience
- Production equipment and capacity
- Customer reviews and global market coverage
A trustworthy manufacturer ensures both quality and long-term cooperation.
3. Request Samples and Confirm Specifications
Always request samples before placing a bulk order. DERFLEX provides:
- Standard product samples
- Customized samples (color, GSM, width)
- Performance test reports
Check the following quality points:
- PVC coating uniformity
- Tensile strength / tear strength
- Waterproof performance
- UV & weather resistance
- Color fastness
- Surface smoothness for printing
4. Request Quotation and Negotiate Prices
A quotation usually includes:
- Unit price (per roll / per sqm)
- MOQ
- Packing details
- Lead time
- Payment terms (T/T, LC)
- Shipping method
DERFLEX offers competitive EXW / FOB / CIF / DDP pricing based on your order quantity.
5. Confirm PI and Make Payment
Once all details are finalized, the supplier will issue a Proforma Invoice (PI). Buyers typically pay:
- 30% deposit before production
- 70% balance before shipment
Electronic production photos and videos can be provided during manufacturing.
6. Production, Quality Inspection & Packing
DERFLEX ensures strict QC at every stage:
- PVC raw material inspection
- Knife coating & laminating quality control
- Finished roll surface inspection
- GSM and thickness testing
- Strength testing
Tarpaulin rolls are packed with protective film and pallets for container loading.
7. Shipping and Logistics
Common shipping methods include:
- Sea freight (most economical)
- Rail freight (for Europe)
- Air freight (urgent orders)
- Courier (samples / small orders)
Required documents:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- CO / Form E / Form F (optional)
- MSDS / Test Reports (if required)
8. Customs Clearance in Your Country
Buyers need to prepare:
- Importer registration
- HS Code for tarpaulin
- Duties and taxes
- Customs broker documents
DERFLEX supports full documentation for smooth customs clearance.
9. Receive Goods and Inspect Quality
After arrival, inspect the rolls for:
- Damage during transport
- Quantity accuracy
- Roll width & length
- Coating uniformity
If any problem occurs, DERFLEX provides after-sales support and compensation policies.
PVC Tarpaulin Product Parameters (Example)
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | PVC coated / laminated polyester fabric |
| Weight | 300–2000gsm |
| Width | 1.02m / 1.27m / 1.52m / 2.5m / 3.2m / 5.1m |
| Color | Customizable |
| Surface | Glossy / Matte |
| Features | Waterproof / UV resistant / Fire retardant / Anti-mildew |
Available Colors
Standard: Blue, White, Green, Black, Grey, Red, Yellow, Orange
Custom: Pantone color matching available
Application Fields
- Truck side curtain & truck cover
- Construction site protection
- Agriculture tarps & greenhouse covers
- Temporary shelters & tents
- Swimming pool covers
- Industrial waterproof tarps
- Billboard printing materials
DERFLEX Company Profile
Shanghai DER New Material Co., Ltd is a professional PVC tarpaulin and industrial fabric manufacturer with 20+ years of experience. We export to more than 100 countries, supplying high-performance materials for trucks, construction, marine, agriculture, advertising, and logistics industries.
- 20,000m² factory area
- Advanced knife-coating and laminating machines
- ISO9001, SGS, RoHS certified
- Full OEM/ODM customization
- Strong R&D and testing capabilities
Certifications
- ISO 9001 Quality Management
- SGS Test Report
- RoHS
- REACH
- Fire Retardant certification (B1, M2, NFPA701)
Why Choose DERFLEX
- 20+ years tarpaulin manufacturing experience
- High-strength, durable, export-grade materials
- Competitive factory price
- Fast delivery with large inventory
- Professional export support
- Customizable specifications
- Strict QC for every roll
- Comprehensive after-sales service
Installation Precautions
- Ensure surface is clean before installation
- Use UV-resistant ropes or hooks
- Tension uniformly to avoid wrinkles
- Avoid sharp edges to prevent punctures
- Do not store tarpaulin while wet
Sold to Countries
DERFLEX exports to:
USA, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Australia, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and more than 100 countries.
FAQs
1. What is the MOQ for tarpaulin?
Standard MOQ is 1,000–3,000sqm depending on product type.
2. Can I get free samples?
Yes, DERFLEX offers free samples; you only pay courier cost.
3. What is the production lead time?
10–25 days depending on order quantity.
4. Can you provide customized colors and printing?
Yes, Pantone color matching and logo printing are available.
5. Do you offer OEM/ODM service?
Yes, DERFLEX supports full customization.
Relevant Keywords
import tarpaulin from China, PVC tarpaulin supplier China, China tarp manufacturer, how to buy tarp from China, China PVC fabric factory, DERFLEX tarpaulin manufacturer, heavy duty PVC tarp import guide