Quick Facts
- Second-hand clothing importers
- Vintage wear entrepreneurs
- Textile wholesalers and sorters
- Belgium acts as a collection hub for second-hand clothes from wealthy neighbors France, Germany, and Netherlands
- 0% export duties and 0% VAT on used clothing exports to non-EU countries as of late 2025
- Exports must be classified as 'reusable products' not waste under EU Directive 2008/98/EC to avoid shipment delays
- Customs brokerage fees range from €50 to €200 per declaration
Belgium is a strategic sourcing hub for high-quality second-hand textiles in 2026, offering duty-free exports and access to premium European stock, but importers must navigate strict EU classification rules to avoid costly delays.
While the world focuses on fast fashion, smart entrepreneurs are looking at Belgium. Why? Because this small country is arguably the most strategic hub for second-hand textile sourcing in Europe right now.
Belgium doesn’t just recycle its own clothes; it acts as a collection funnel for its wealthy neighborsFrance, Germany, and the Netherlands. This means the “Cream” grade (highest quality) stock you find here often originates from the closets of Europe’s biggest fashion consumers. If you are in the business of importing vintage wear or sorting raw bales, this is where you start.
Why Belgium is the Sorter’s Paradise
In the textile trade, geography is quality. Belgium sits precisely in the middle of Western Europe’s most affluent zone. When you buy unsorted “originals” from Belgian wholesalers, you aren’t just getting Belgian stock; you are often getting a mix of Dutch practicality, French style, and German quality.
For those looking to understand the retail side of these neighboring markets, it is worth studying cheap clothes shopping sites in Germany or exploring flea markets in the Netherlands to see exactly what kind of brands end up in these recycling bins.
The 2026 Regulatory Landscape: What Changed?
Before you contact a supplier, you need to understand the rules of the game. The landscape shifted significantly in 2025.
The “Waste” vs. “Product” Trap
Since January 1, 2025, Belgium has strictly implemented EU Directive 2008/98/EC regarding separate textile collection. Here is the practitioner’s reality: Exports of used clothing (HS Code 6309) must now be rigorously classified as “reusable products.” If your shipment is misclassified as waste, you face strict shipment regulations that can hold up your container for weeks.
The Cost of Doing Business
The good news? There are 0% export duties and 0% VAT on used clothing exports to non EU countries as of late 2025. However, do not forget the “hidden” costs. You will incur customs brokerage fees, typically ranging from €50 to €200 per declaration. Always factor this into your margin.
Verified Companies Importing Used Clothes from Belgium
Not all suppliers listed on old directories are still standing. We have curated this list with verified operational details current as of late 2025.
Batrade SPRL
Based in Brussels, Batrade remains a solid wholesale distributor active in 2025. They specialize in collecting pre owned textiles not just from Belgium, but also from the Netherlands and Germany. Their focus is export to Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Shadi Trading
Shadi Trading is fully active and filed updated financial statements in early 2025. Located in Berchem Sainte-Agathe, they handle sorting and exporting of clothes and footwear. Note that older phone numbers floating around the web are often disconnected.
- Verified Contact: +32 (0) 475 37 88 53
- Location: Rue de Grand Bigard 14, 1082 Brussels
Nouratex BVBA
A veteran in the industry, Nouratex operates out of Lokeren. They are a verified exporter of high-quality used clothing and shoes, with a strong presence in Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East markets.
- Contact: +32 935 51 642
- Status: Active (Managed by Director S. Massini)
PEBS GROUP BV
Formerly known as Pebs Group BVBA, this company updated its legal form to PEBS GROUP BV in January 2025. Headquartered in Hamont Achel, they are one of Belgium’s largest buyers and sorters. If you are looking for volume, this is a key contact.
- Contact: +32 894 67 560
Irceb Buggenhout NV
Operating since 1953, Irceb is an institution. They specialize in wholesale used clothes but also produce industrial wiping rags from recycled textilesa great option if you need to diversify your inventory.
- Contact: +32 523 33 077
- Location: Kalkenstraat 106, 9255 Buggenhout
El Saied Company
Located in the Brussels region (Sint Pieters-Leeuw), El Saied is active in textile recycling and export. They are responsive and maintain multiple contact lines.
- Primary Contacts: +32 (0) 488 867 600 / +32 (0) 487 528 991
Other Notable Mentions
While verified data is limited for Class Trading and Nour Export SPRL, they remain part of the historic fabric of the Brussels export scene. We recommend verifying their current export license status before engaging in large transactions.
How to Import Safely (Without Getting Burned)
1. The Site Visit is Non Negotiable
In this industry, “Grade A” is subjective. If you are serious, book a trip to Belgium. Inspect the sorting lines yourself. Watching the workers sort gives you more insight than any sales brochure. It allows you to build a relationship with the warehouse managerthe most important person in your supply chain.
2. Master the Paperwork
To export to non EU countries, you must clear the PLDA (Paperless Customs and Excises) system. If you want preferential tariff rates in your destination country, you will need a Certificate of Origin proving the goods were sorted in Belgium.
3. Online Sourcing Reality Check
If you cannot travel, you need a proxy. Do not rely solely on WhatsApp promises. Use a verified inspection agent in Brussels. If you are looking to understand how logistics work for online sellers in Europe, checking out guides on Amazon FBA in Germany can give you insights into the rigor of European logistics standards.
Consumer Note: Buying for Yourself?
If you aren’t an importer but just a savvy shopper, the landscape has changed for you too. Zalando Pre owned is a dominant player in Belgium for 2025/2026. However, take note: as of February 2025, their generous return window has shrunk from 100 days to 30 days. Plan your purchases accordingly.
