Importing furniture from China to Europe is an excellent opportunity for retailers, e-commerce sellers, and wholesalers to source affordable, high-quality products. However, for beginners, the process may seem overwhelming. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step—from sourcing and supplier selection to customs and shipping—ensuring that even first-time importers can confidently complete their shipment.
Why Source Furniture from China?
China is a global leader in furniture manufacturing, offering a broad range of styles, materials, and customization options. Whether you’re purchasing minimalistic Scandinavian pieces or luxury hotel sets, you’ll find options in every budget.
Advantages:
- Competitive pricing and scalable production
- Rich supplier base with various design specialties
- Flexible OEM/ODM capabilities
- Mature logistics and export infrastructure
For beginners, China offers platforms that make supplier discovery easier:
- Alibaba{\:target="_blank"}
- Made-in-China{\:target="_blank"}
- Global Sources{\:target="_blank"}
Whatsmore, You can also search china suppliers from social media platforms like tiktok, facebook, instagram, youtube and xiaohongshu. So far Many Chinese suppliers search clients,so the do marketing on these social platforms.
Best Furniture Markets and Trade Fairs in China
Wholesale Markets:
- Lecong (Shunde): China’s largest furniture wholesale market
- Bazhou (Hebei): Strong in office and panel furniture
- Jiujiang and Dongguan: Known for mid-range to luxury collections
Recommended Trade Shows:
- Canton Fair (Guangzhou)
- CIFF (China International Furniture Fair)
- Furniture China (Shanghai)
Attending these fairs allows you to meet manufacturers, check product quality, and negotiate directly.
Cooperating with China Soucing agent.
There are so many China sourcing agent, which can help you find the orginal manufacture in china and all of them with good quality. So if you find a good sourcing agent, it is another good solution for you to find the top China funiture factories resources.
How to Find Reliable Furniture Suppliers
Finding the right supplier is the cornerstone of a successful furniture import project. A reliable supplier not only provides consistent quality but also ensures on-time production and smooth coordination with your freight forwarder. Here’s how beginners can identify trustworthy furniture suppliers from China:
Step 1: Use Reputable B2B Platforms
Start your search using well-established sourcing platforms:
- Alibaba – The largest B2B marketplace with Trade Assurance and verified badges.
- Made-in-China – Known for industrial products and certified manufacturers.
- Global Sources – Popular with export-ready suppliers focused on quality and innovation.
Use filters such as “Verified Supplier,” “Trade Assurance,” or “Factory Audit Passed” to shortlist potential vendors.
Step 2: Verify Business Credentials
Always check whether the supplier is a factory or a trading company. While trading companies are not inherently bad, factories typically offer better prices and more direct control over production.
Request and review the following:
- Business license (in Chinese with English translation)
- Export license
- ISO9001 quality certification
- FSC certification (for wooden furniture)
- Product test reports (EN12520, REACH, etc.)
Step 3: Communicate Clearly and Professionally
Send a structured inquiry email. Include:
- Product specifications (material, size, finish, packaging)
- Quantity and target price
- Certification and compliance requirements
- Whether you need OEM/ODM customization
- Sample request with shipping terms
Observe response time, language clarity, and willingness to provide documents. This reflects their service reliability.
Step 4: Order Samples Before Placing a Bulk Order
Never skip sample verification, especially for furniture. Check:
- Build quality and structural stability
- Surface finish, upholstery, stitching
- Packaging method
- Barcode labeling or custom logo accuracy
Take pictures, compare samples from multiple suppliers, and give feedback.
Step 5: Consider a Factory Audit or Inspection
For higher-value orders, especially with new suppliers, you can book a third-party factory audit to assess:
- Manufacturing capabilities
- Raw material sourcing
- Labor practices and certifications
- Quality control systems
Trusted audit companies include:
Alternatively, DFH Logistics offers on-the-ground inspection and supplier background checks to save you time and money.
Tip: Keep all communication within the sourcing platform (e.g., Alibaba chat) until you’ve built trust, as this offers added protection under trade assurance.
What are the Packaging Requirements?
Beginner importers must confirm packaging is sturdy and compliant with EU logistics standards.
Essentials:
- Double-walled cartons with foam protection
- Wooden crates for glass or fragile items
- Palletized shipments for FCL loading
- ISPM15 heat-treated wood for international shipping
Each box should include:
- Product name
- HS code
- Supplier and consignee details
- Country of origin
DFH Logistics provide customized wooden frame customized services. So if you buy from different china funiture suppliers, and want to have them packed correctly and save shipping space, then can have DFH logistis’ team help you to do this job.
See below before packing, and after packing picture.
Best Shipping Methods from China to Europe
Options and Suitability:
Below are some shipping methods that you should know before place the order, you can read them carefully and then you will know which one is the best for your shipment.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Cost Efficiency | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| FCL Sea Freight | 25–40 days | ★★★★★ | Bulk furniture shipments |
| LCL Sea Freight | 30–35 days | ★★★★☆ | Small volume or mixed orders |
| LCL Sea Freight (DDP) | 45–55 days | ★★★★★ | Small volume or mixed orders |
| Rail Freight (DDP) | 30–35 days | ★★★★☆ | Central & Eastern Europe |
| Truck Transportaion (DDP) | 20–28 days | ★★★★☆ | Central & Eastern Europe |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | ★★☆☆☆ | Urgent deliveries, samples |
| Express (DHL/UPS) | 3–7 days | ★☆☆☆☆ | Small items or single pieces |
For new importers, DDP shipping is highly recommended to simplify tax and customs clearance.
How to Handle Customs Duties and VAT for Furniture Import
To avoid costly mistakes, new importers must understand landed costs.
Key Charges:
- Customs Duties: Typically 0–6% based on HS code
- VAT: Country-specific, e.g., Germany 19%, France 20%
- Anti-dumping taxes: May apply to specific categories
Check using the EU TARIC database.
Example:
| Item | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| FOB Product Value | \$5,000 |
| CIF (Freight + Insurance) | \$800 |
| Customs Duty (5%) | \$290 |
| VAT (19%) | \$1,104 |
| Total Landed Cost | \$7,194 |
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an EORI Number
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for customs clearance in the EU.
How to apply:
- Visit your country’s customs website.
- Register your business and VAT number.
- Submit online or via email, depending on the country.
- Receive your EORI via email in 1–5 business days.
How to Calculate Your Total Landed Cost (With Formula)
Understanding the total landed cost helps you determine your true profit margins.
Formula:
Total Landed Cost = Product Cost + Shipping + Insurance + Customs Duties + VAT + Inland Delivery
Make sure to use the correct HS code and VAT rate per country.
Practical Case: Importing 20 Wooden Chairs from China to Germany
- FOB price per chair: \$10 × 20 = \$200
- CIF (Freight + Insurance): \$100
- HS Code: 9401610000 (5% duty)
- Customs Duty: \$300 × 5% = \$15
- VAT (Germany 19%): (\$300 + \$15) × 19% = \$59.85
- Local Delivery: \$60
Total Landed Cost: \$200 + \$100 + \$15 + \$59.85 + \$60 = \$434.85
Average per chair: \~\$21.74
Compliance and Safety Certifications
To enter the EU market legally, ensure furniture complies with:
- EN Standards (e.g., EN 12520 for chairs)
- FSC Certification for wood products
- CE Marking (for electrical furniture parts)
Ask for certificates and lab test reports from your supplier.
Beginner Checklist: 10 Steps to Import Furniture Like a Pro
- Define your product type and quantity
- Identify HS codes and calculate duties
- Apply for an EORI number
- Research and verify suppliers
- Order samples for quality inspection
- Choose suitable packaging and labeling
- Select the best shipping method (DDP preferred)
- Prepare all required documents
- Use a reliable logistics partner (like DFH)
- Inspect goods upon arrival and calculate final landed cost
Common Problems When Importing Furnniture and How to Avoid Them
Beginner Pain Points:
- Receiving damaged goods
- Unexpected customs bills
- Inconsistent product quality
How to prevent them:
- Use DDP shipping with a reliable forwarder
- Request pre-shipment inspection (DFH offers this)
- Avoid suppliers without clear documentation
Why Choose DFH Logistics Shipping Furniture from China to Europe?
When it comes to importing furniture from China to Europe, choosing the right freight forwarder is just as important as selecting the right product or supplier. DFH Logistics stands out as one of the most experienced and trusted logistics partners for European furniture importers—whether you are a first-time buyer or a high-volume distributor.
With over 12 years of hands-on experience and thousands of successful EU-bound shipments, DFH Logistics offers a comprehensive, worry-free logistics solution from factory floor to your customer’s door.
✅ What Makes DFH the Preferred Logistics Partner?
1. True DDP Expertise (Delivered Duty Paid)
We specialize in DDP shipping services—handling everything from export paperwork in China to customs clearance and duty payment in Europe. That means you never have to worry about hidden fees, tax issues, or customs delays.
2. End-to-End One-Stop Solution
From supplier pickup to final delivery, we manage all legs of the journey:
- Local pickup from factories, warehouses, or multiple suppliers
- Cargo consolidation in our Chinese warehouse
- Custom packaging, labeling, and palletizing
- Export declaration and customs filing
- Last-mile delivery to Amazon FBA, 3PL warehouse, or business address
3. Flexible Transport Options
We help you choose the most cost-effective and time-sensitive shipping route: - Sea Freight (FCL & LCL): For large or bulky furniture orders
- Railway Freight (DDP): Fast and economical for Central and Eastern Europe
- Truck transporation (DDP): Fast and economical for Central and Eastern Europe
- Air Freight & Express: For urgent deliveries or high-value samples
4. Professional Documentation & Compliance Support
We handle complex export paperwork, HS codes, and certificates (e.g., EN12520, FSC, REACH) to ensure your goods clear EU customs smoothly. We proactively guide you on packaging compliance and labeling requirements for each country.
5. Quality Inspection & Pre-Shipment Services
Need to verify quality or packaging before shipping? Our team can perform:
- Visual inspection of goods and packaging
- Quantity checks and SKU labeling
- Customized documentation with photos/videos
6. Transparent Communication & Real-Time Updates
You’ll receive timely updates and full visibility from pick-up to delivery, including:
- Booking confirmation
- Tracking number or container status
- Arrival notice and proof of delivery
7. Trusted by Thousands of Clients
We’ve served over 20,000 businesses across Europe—retailers, wholesalers, Amazon sellers, designers, and project contractors. Our 5-star rated service continues to deliver value, consistency, and peace of mind.
Click here for a free tailored quote – Let our team design a shipping plan based on your furniture type, volume, budget, and delivery timeline.
FAQs for First-Time Importers
1. Do I need an import license?
No special license is needed, but you must apply for an EORI number before customs clearance.
2. What is DDP and why is it important for new buyers?
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) includes freight, customs, duties, and VAT. It reduces risk and is beginner-friendly.
3. Can I consolidate from different suppliers?
Yes. DFH can collect from multiple vendors, repack, and ship together to save cost.
4. What’s the cheapest option for heavy furniture?
FCL (Full Container Load) sea freight is the most cost-effective method for large volumes.
5. Do I need to buy Insurance?
Yes, it can let you reduce lost for if lost or damage happend during international shipping.While if you choose our DFH Logistics as your shipping agent,you can get free charge insurance for your shipments if your shipment more then 2000KG each time.
Final Thoughts
Importing furniture from China to Europe doesn’t need to be complicated—even for first-time buyers. With the right preparation, compliance checks, and a reliable logistics partner like DFH Logistics, your first shipment can be smooth and profitable.
✅ Ready to ship like a pro? Contact DFH Logistics for a beginner-friendly plan
