Turkey is one of Europe's largest sock suppliers thanks to dense circular-knitting clusters around Istanbul and Corlu. Expect MOQs of 500-2,000 pairs per style, 25-40 day lead times, FOB prices of USD 0.35-2.20 per pair, and stock combed-cotton and bamboo yarns that make custom-logo private label fast.
- Typical MOQ
- 500-2,000 pairs per style / colour
- Lead time
- 25-40 days after sample approval
- FOB price
- USD 0.35-2.20 per pair
- Main hubs
- Istanbul, Corlu (Tekirdag), Bursa
- Certifications
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100, BSCI, GOTS
Why source socks from Turkey
Turkey is one of the largest sock exporters to the European Union, with dense circular-knitting clusters around Istanbul and Corlu (Tekirdag) running Lonati and Sangiacomo machines. That machine density means capacity for everything from fine-gauge dress socks to cushioned athletic and terry styles.
For buyers, the advantages are short EU lead times, competitive freight, and factories that hold combed-cotton and bamboo yarns in stock. Custom-logo and private-label programs move from tech pack to shipment in weeks, not months, and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 yarns are the norm.
MOQ, pricing and lead times
Most sock factories accept 500-2,000 pairs per style and colour. Stock-yarn combed-cotton programs can start around 300 pairs, while custom bamboo, merino or technical athletic yarns sit at the higher end.
FOB prices typically range from USD 0.35 to 2.20 per pair depending on yarn, gauge, cushioning and packaging (single pairs, bands or hangers). Budget 25-40 days from approved sample to ex-works for a first run; combed-cotton and athletic programs are usually stock-yarn, while bamboo and merino may add one to two weeks for yarn sourcing.
Materials and sock types
Common yarns are combed cotton, bamboo viscose, merino wool, modal and athletic Coolmax or poly blends with elastane. Bamboo is popular for eco and wellness ranges thanks to its natural breathability and antibacterial feel.
Turkish factories produce the full type range: crew, ankle, no-show, athletic and compression socks, plus diabetic, thermal, dress, grip and hiking styles, and hosiery such as tights and stockings. Curate a tight assortment for your first order and expand once fit and quality are proven.
Private label and custom-logo socks
Private label is standard: jacquard-knit logos, woven bands, custom hangtags and retail packaging are all available in-house. Plan one sample round for gauge and logo approval before bulk.
Send clear artwork, a size run and your yarn choice. Most factories quote within 24-72 hours, knit a sample, then run linking, boarding and packing under one roof.
Quality, compliance and certifications
For EU and US retail, ask for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certificates on the yarns, and BSCI or SEDEX audits for social compliance. GOTS applies if you need certified-organic cotton.
US importers must apply accurate fibre-content and country-of-origin labels (Made in Turkey). A quick pre-shipment inspection on the first order protects against gauge, size and packing errors.
How to place your first order
Start with a clear brief: styles, yarns, sizes, quantities per style, logo artwork and packaging. Request a quote and a sample, approve the sample, then confirm the bulk PO with agreed Incoterms (FOB Istanbul is common).
Ready to start? Send your tech pack or a reference pair and we'll match you with the right Turkish sock factory and get quotes back quickly.