Importing second-hand shoes is one of the fastest-growing business opportunities in Africa, Asia, South America, and the Middle East. Buyers are constantly looking for reliable suppliers who offer consistent quality, competitive pricing, and stable monthly supply.
Canada has become one of the top sourcing countries for used shoes because Canadian footwear tends to be durable, clean, and long-lasting—making it ideal for resale markets worldwide.
If you’re planning to import used shoes from Canada, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing a supplier to clearing your shipment at the port.
1. Choose a Reliable Exporter
The most important step is selecting a trusted supplier with proven experience in grading and bulk shipping.
What to Look For:
- Consistent monthly supply
- Transparent grading standards
- Strong packaging to prevent damage
- Export documentation readiness
- Positive buyer feedback
- Fast response time and clear communication
Retex Textiles processes over 350,000 lbs of shoes monthly and ships worldwide, offering grades such as:
- Rarely worn (Grade A)
- Gently used (Grade B)
- Mixed lots
- Canvas shoes
- Boots, sneakers, sandals, and more
2. Understand the Shoe Grades Before You Buy
Canadian second-hand shoes are usually sorted into different grades based on condition.
Common Grades Include:
- Grade A: Almost new, lightly worn, clean, high resale value
- Grade B: Gently used, durable, good for mass-market reselling
- Mixed Lots: Economical option for markets that accept a blend of conditions
Before placing an order, confirm with your supplier:
- The exact grade you’re buying
- Expected quality level
- Typical brands included
- Market suitability for your region
This ensures you receive the right products for your customers.
3. Know the Packaging Standards
For international export, packaging matters—especially for long-distance shipments.
At Retex Textiles, packaging includes:
- Strong woven polyester bags
- Heavy stitching to prevent tearing
- Consistent weight per bag
- Moisture-free, clean environment
- Easy stacking for container loading
Proper packaging protects the shoes and keeps your shipment in excellent condition during transit.
4. Arrange Your Shipping Method
There are two common shipping options:
✔ Full Container Load (FCL)
Ideal for large buyers who want:
- Lower cost per kg
- Maximum control
- Highest volume per shipment
✔ Less Than Container Load (LCL)
Best for smaller or first-time buyers:
- Lower initial investment
- Shared container space
- Easy to test quality before scaling
Your exporter can help arrange:
- Booking the container
- Loading the bags
- Securing the shipment
- Preparing export documentation
5. Prepare the Required Import Documents
Different countries require different paperwork, but common documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin (if needed)
- Bill of Lading
- Weight confirmation
- Supplier’s company details
Your supplier should provide these documents before the shipment arrives at your port.
6. Clear the Shipment at Your Local Port
Once the container arrives, you will need to work with your clearing agent.
The clearing process usually includes:
- Customs inspection
- Payment of import duties or taxes
- Container release
- Transport to your warehouse or shop
A good agent speeds up the process and ensures the shipment arrives safely and legally.
7. Sell or Distribute the Shoes in Your Market
After receiving the goods, you can:
- Sell in retail shops
- Supply local markets
- Create wholesale bundles
- Sell online or through social media
- Distribute to resellers
Used shoes are fast-moving products, especially sneakers, canvas shoes, boots, and children’s footwear.
Final Tips for a Smooth Import Experience
To ensure successful long-term business:
- Start with a test order
- Choose a supplier with consistent grading
- Understand your local market’s preferred styles
- Calculate your resale margins
- Order enough quantity to meet demand
- Maintain good communication with your exporter
Conclusion
Importing used shoes from Canada is a profitable and scalable business—especially when working with a supplier who prioritizes quality and reliability. From careful sourcing to durable packaging and accurate documentation, Retex Textiles ensures a smooth export process for buyers around the world.
Whether you need canvas shoes, dress shoes, boots, or mixed lots, our team is ready to support your shipment from Canada to your destination port.