Can anyone import furniture manufactured in China? Definitely yes. However, there are certain things to consider before you come up with a final decision such as the advantages and disadvantages in furniture import as well as risk factors. Here are the things that you have to investigate and fully understand:
* Products
What particular furniture do you intend to import to your country from China? Have you personally inspected each item? Do they pass your quality control testing? Are they of high quality standard but still reasonably priced? Will they create a demand in your domestic market?
* Supplier
Who will be your supplier of furniture made in China? Is he trustworthy, true to his words, and dependable? Can he meet your delivery dates? Since your supplier is Chinese, it is recommended to build a relationship (guanxi) with him or her.
That’s why it is generally advised that you go to China personally and meet your prospective supplier. That way, you won’t only have the chance to talk and discuss business with your supplier. You will also have the opportunity to actually inspect your potential furniture items.
* Shipping
More often than not, furniture items are shipped by sea. That is because they tend to be bulky, quite cumbersome and require utmost care in handling and shipping. Although ocean freight is safer, it is five times costlier and takes much longer than other forms of shipment such as by air or land.
* Cargo Insurance
If you choose ocean freight to ship your furniture from China, be reminded that each container has a limited liability of only $500 for cargo damage. To ensure the safety of your shipment, your best option is to obtain cargo insurance from a reputable insurance company in your area. Also, don’t make the same mistakes as other importers do. You have to realize the difference between international and domestic cargo liability.
* Customs
You are not that familiar with the customs regulations and duties. In this regard, it is best to hire a customs broker BEFORE you place your order. He will be the one to handle the entry of your shipment from China. In addition, you must also supply your supplier of this relevant information for him to prepare and send the pertinent documentation to your customs broker.
Employing the service of a customs broker also gives you a number of advantages. For one, he can help you weigh and find out any import duties and other import details on your shipment. He’s the one that specifies to your supplier the requirements he must prepare prior to shipment. Likewise, a customs broker can inspect your shipment before it is even delivered to your doorstep.
These are just a few of the things that you have to take into consideration in the China import business. This trade might sound quite difficult and very challenging the first time, but as you go along, you’ll learn the ins and outs.
