Raksha Bandhan falls in August, but a good rakhi range is decided months earlier. Late orders mean missed sales, and unsold stock means a long wait for the next season. Here is how retailers and importers can plan it.
This guide is for retailers, online gift stores and importers buying rakhi in bulk from India.
1. Plan backwards from the festival
This is a typical planning window. Adjust it for your shipping mode and customs process, and ask each supplier for its own production calendar.
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| January – February | Shortlist suppliers, ask for catalogues and price lists, decide your range and price tiers. |
| March | Request samples. Check stones, stringing, packaging and finish. |
| April | Confirm quantities, designs, branding and terms. Place the order. |
| May – June | Production, quality checks, export packing and shipment. Allow extra time for sea freight and customs. |
| July | Stock on shelves and online, ahead of the August season. |
Our own production time is short. Celebration Kraft rakhi and bracelet orders are ready in 3–5 working days. Most of your window goes on samples, approvals, custom packaging, shipping and customs, so build your plan around those.
2. Decide your product mix
Where each type fits
- Thread and fancy rakhis — low price, high volume, high competition.
- Designer, kundan and pearl rakhis — mid-range and widely stocked.
- Gemstone rakhi bracelets — a premium option that doubles as a bracelet after the festival. See our gemstone rakhi range.
- Kids rakhis and Bhaiya Bhabhi sets — easy add-on sales.
- Gift boxes and hampers — higher basket value. More in our guide to rakhi gift boxes for UK and European stores.
If you are building a first range, these four designs are a good set of samples to request:
3. Questions to ask every rakhi supplier
Ten questions
- What is the minimum order per design, and per order overall?
- What is the lead time for my quantity, and what is the last date to order for August?
- Can I order samples, and what do they cost?
- Can you state the materials in writing (stones, metals, threads)?
- Is each piece individually packed? Is retail-ready packaging included?
- Can you add my branding, cards or barcodes?
- How do you pack for export so stones, beads and boxes arrive intact?
- Which shipping terms do you quote, and who handles export paperwork?
- What are your payment terms?
- What happens if pieces arrive damaged or the quantity is short?
4. Check samples properly
Handle the piece, tie it on, and look at the finish of every component. For stone products, compare the stones against the supplier's stated list. Our natural vs synthetic checklist covers what to ask.
5. Think about customs and compliance early
The customs classification of a rakhi depends on how it is made (thread, metal, stone, plastic), and import rules differ by country. Confirm the classification, duty and any material or skin-contact requirements for your market with your customs broker before you order.
6. Reduce seasonal risk, avoid common mistakes
Checklist
- Start with a smaller range and reorder what sells, if your supplier can support repeat orders.
- Include designs that can sell all year, such as gemstone bracelets.
- Work with a supplier who covers other festivals too, so one relationship serves Rakhi, Karwa Chauth, Diwali and Christmas gifting.
- Do not order after May for an August launch.
- Do not choose from photos alone. Always see samples.
- Do not compare unit prices only. Compare materials, packaging and terms as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I order rakhi wholesale?
Aim to confirm your order by April for an August festival, and start conversations in the new year. Earlier is safer for sea freight.
What is your lead time for rakhi?
Rakhi and bracelet orders are ready in 3–5 working days, before shipping time. Custom branding or packaging can add time, and we confirm it in your quote.
Can I order a small first batch?
The minimum order for rakhis is 50 gift boxes, with 6 pieces in each box. Send your brief and we will confirm other pack formats and custom sets.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We have exported festive thaali sets to Canada and Australia, and we quote international shipping per order.
Planning your next Rakhi season? Every Celebration Kraft piece is handcrafted in our Ambala studio.
Message us on WhatsApp or email celebrationkraft@gmail.com.
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