Insider Tips on Buying Marble Furniture in China
This article provides insider knowledge on purchasing marble furniture in China, potentially giving you a competitive edge with pricing.
Drawing from my experience sourcing marble furniture for the Australian market, the insights shared here are valuable and applicable to buying other products in China as well.
Key Places for buying Marble Furniture in China
China hosts two major markets for marble and other natural stones:
- Xiamen, Fujian Province
- Yunfu, Guangdong Province
Both markets offer an extensive selection of Chinese marble, granite, and imported stones. However, based on my experience, Yunfu in Guangdong stands out. Its proximity to Foshan—a major hub for furniture manufacturing for both export and domestic markets—means there is a higher level of expertise in marble furniture production.
Finding the Right Factories
The most straightforward way to connect with marble furniture manufacturers is by attending the Chinese International Furniture Fair (CIFF), held biannually:
- Spring: Guangzhou
- Autumn: Shanghai
At CIFF, you will encounter a mix of factories and trading companies. Opting for large, established factories is often the safest choice due to their stringent quality control, excellent service, and contemporary designs. However, these factories usually come with higher prices.
Trading companies, distinguishable by their wide range of furniture compared to the specialized focus of factories, are also present at the fair and on platforms like Alibaba. They offer good service and modern designs but may not be the most cost-effective option.
Cost-Effective Sourcing Strategy
For the most economical approach, consider sourcing marble directly from wholesalers. Some wholesalers can cut the marble for you; if not, you will need a stone-cutting specialist, often located within the same markets. For furniture with metal bases, source the metal components from small factories.
This method can reduce costs by nearly half compared to buying from trading companies or established factories. However, it requires a reliable, on-the-ground agent in China to manage the process.
Payment and Shipping
Factories or trading companies will typically charge either an Ex-Works (EXW) or Free on Board (FOB) price:
- Ex-Works (EXW): You bear all local charges and the cost of getting goods to the nearest port.
- Free on Board (FOB): The factory or trading company covers these costs.
Small factories often use EXW pricing, necessitating a shipping agent for Chinese customs clearance and other local logistics. Despite this additional step, the cost savings from purchasing through small factories can be substantial.
Most factories require a 30% deposit, with the balance due upon completion of the furniture. Payment is usually made via telegraphic transfer (TT) or, less commonly, a letter of credit (LC). An LC guarantees payment from the buyer’s bank to the seller, covering the purchase amount if the buyer defaults.
Key Considerations
When buying marble furniture in China, keep these points in mind:
- Quality Control: Each marble slab is unique, with distinct patterns and veins. An agent who understands acceptable quality is essential to avoid unsellable products due to flaws.
- Handling and Transportation: Marble is heavy and prone to cracking if mishandled. Proper loading and unloading, preferably with forklifts and secured in plywood crates, are crucial to prevent damage.
For more detailed logistics and shipping information applicable to marble furniture, refer to my article on shipping goods out of China.
By following these guidelines, you can navigate the complexities of sourcing marble furniture in China effectively, ensuring quality products at competitive prices.
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