A practical guide to buying abroad
What is included in the cost of furniture delivery from abroad
To compare two offers, use the same configuration and final delivery point for both. Otherwise, you are comparing different purchases.
In this guide
First define what you are buying
The price depends on dimensions, finish, fabric or leather, hardware and configuration. Check the product code, quantity and included components. Clarify samples, custom dimensions and preparation for dispatch separately.
Define the delivery scope
Where does the seller hand over the furniture, and who is responsible for each subsequent leg? Are factory collection, transfers, storage, international transportation and delivery to the property included? Ask for a list of included and excluded activities.
Identify packaging and inspection separately
Standard factory packaging may differ from agreed transport protection. For fragile and large pieces, clarify packaging components, labelling, pre-handover checks and condition recording in advance.
Clarify documentation and mandatory payments
Required documents and applicable payments depend on the goods and import terms. Before ordering, clarify who determines the requirements, prepares the documents and bears the relevant costs. One universal rate cannot be applied to all furniture in advance.
Separate services and work at the property
The bureau’s fee, insurance, unloading, carrying furniture upstairs and assembly should be visible in the estimate if they are included in the order. Clarify freight vehicle access, lift and passage dimensions, and whether storage is needed until the space is ready.
Compare the currency and estimate date
Check the currency of the obligation, conversion source and date, offer validity and payment stages. If some expenses are still preliminary, ask when and on what basis they will be clarified.
A useful format for the final comparison
For each offer, record: matching specification; furniture; services; packaging; transportation; documentation and applicable payments; work at the property; exclusions; validity period. This shows what accounts for differences in the total.
Next step