DiFFreight Blog How to Import Sofas from China Directly from Manufacturers

How to Import Sofas from China Directly from Manufacturers

How to Import Sofas from China Directly from Manufacturers

More than 60% of furniture produced by global brands comes from Guangdong Province. Chinese factories manufacture high-quality sofas at relatively low purchasing prices. If you want to scale your business, order furniture directly from manufacturers or large wholesalers. Below we explain what you need to know before launching imports from the Middle Kingdom.

Where to Order Sofas Wholesale from China

Factories in the Middle Kingdom offer a huge selection of furniture for any interior in various price categories. In catalogs, you will find:

  • classic sofas from China for living rooms;
  • fold-out models with frames;
  • leather sofas from China for residential and office premises;
  • modular products for non-standard rooms;
  • corner sofas from China — practical models for zoning.

In addition to “ready-made” solutions, factories manufacture products based on your drawings or provide customization options: different materials, upholstery, and fittings. Manufacturers’ assortments include both inexpensive sofas from China and premium models.

Furniture must combine comfort, quality, and ergonomics, which is why it is extremely important to find a reliable manufacturer or intermediary. Supplier searches in China can be carried out:

  1. On marketplaces: Alibaba, 1688, Made-in-China. This is a standard approach for wholesale purchases with various types of sellers — from wholesalers to factories.
  2. At offline markets. Foshan, Longjiang, and Dongguan host markets, showrooms, and factories. Foshan is considered the “furniture capital.”
  3. Online, by contacting manufacturers directly, such as Kuka Home, ZuoYou, and others.

We offer negotiation support and purchasing services in China on marketplaces. Delegate business communication with Chinese partners to professionals to secure the most favorable offers.

Sofa Delivery from China: Important Nuances for Entrepreneurs

The general logistics scheme remains the same as for other goods. However, this niche is specific because the cargo is bulky and heavy. In addition, textiles are very sensitive to moisture and damage. When purchasing a sofa from China, consider the following:

  • Packaging quality. Vacuum packing and durable film are often used to protect materials. Furniture is transported disassembled to save space, and boxes are placed on pallets.
  • Transportation method. The most cost-effective way to deliver a sofa from China is by sea in a container. The rate is calculated per 1 m³ based on volumetric weight. This is significantly cheaper than air freight, where charges are calculated per kilogram.
  • Careful handling. It is important that logistics intermediaries use proper equipment and perform loading and unloading carefully.

Since furniture is a bulky product with high freight costs, returning defective goods from Ukraine is impractical. We recommend conducting inspections upon receipt at a warehouse in the Middle Kingdom. DiFFreight provides warehouse services in China, including additional packaging, labeling, and quality control.


Problems and Solutions When Ordering Wholesale

Although furniture procurement is a high-margin business, there are many risks associated with delivery and inspection.

Problem Consequences DiFFreight Solution
Mismatch in quality and materials Instead of luxurious furniture shown in photos, you receive a product with poor upholstery, an unreliable frame, and cheap filling Do not rely on photos alone: request a full product specification before placing an order
During production: replacement of materials with cheaper ones or deviations from the approved design Loss of investment, as you paid for one product but received a different one Control at all stages. Approve fabric and hardware samples, arrange a factory audit, or delegate this to us
Wrong color Instead of pleasant shades — outdated or unattractive colors We recommend sending color references using the Pantone system and requesting fabric and leather samples
Customs difficulties Shipment delays or fines Only children’s furniture is subject to mandatory certification. However, we recommend using a customs broker to ensure smooth customs clearance

When importing, many factors must be considered — we take over all foreign economic activity (FEA) on an outsourcing basis and establish a reliable supply chain from trusted manufacturers.

Which Sofas and Armchairs from China Cannot Be Imported

Several restrictions and prohibitions apply in this segment:

  1. Furniture without certificates of conformity if it includes built-in recliners, massage units, or heating elements.
  2. Counterfeit goods and replicas are prohibited. This applies to third-party logos and exact copies of well-known brands.
  3. Furniture made of untreated wood. There is a high risk of pest spread in the Middle Kingdom, so wood must undergo fumigation.
  4. Import of furniture made from exotic wood or upholstered with the leather of rare reptiles is prohibited.

Violation of customs regulations may result in fines and confiscation. Always consult with a customs broker.

Sofa Prices: Comparison of the Ukrainian and Chinese Markets

We compared the cost of furniture (the same or similar models) to clearly demonstrate why wholesale purchasing in China is advantageous.

Type Price in Ukraine*, $ Price in China, $
Two-seat non-folding sofa with legs 322 80.29
Modular frameless model with high-elastic foam filling 670 270
Straight sofa with shell-shaped backrest, with legs, two-seat 358 250

*Prices depend on the model, configuration, exchange rates, and manufacturer. Conversion is based on the exchange rate as of December 2025.

Shipping bulky goods such as sofas and armchairs from China to Ukraine is more expensive than shipping small-sized items. Therefore, the percentage margin on furniture is lower, but the absolute profit in currency terms is higher.

Order Sofas with DiFFreight

Do you want to manufacture custom sofas in China based on your own design? Or purchase ready-made models at competitive prices for resale? Contact us! We are not only international logistics experts but also a full-cycle procurement company for entrepreneurs:

  • factory and wholesaler sourcing;
  • wholesale purchasing and payment;
  • warehouse services (inspection, consolidation);
  • customs brokerage services.

We guarantee cargo safety, arrange insurance, and provide 24/7 tracking. Contact us for a consultation and launch a high-margin furniture business with DiFFreight

FAQ

1. What documents are required to import sofas from China?

To import furniture, you typically need: a commercial invoice, packing list, transport documents, export declaration, and customs declaration. Some models (e.g., electrically powered furniture) may require additional certification.

2. How do I choose the best shipping method?

Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for large and heavy sofas. Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive, suitable for urgent or high-value shipments. The choice depends on your budget and delivery timelines.

3. Is additional packaging necessary for furniture?

Yes — furniture, especially sofas with fabric or leather upholstery, is sensitive to moisture and damage. Vacuum packing, corner protection, and wooden crating for sea freight are recommended.

4. How can I avoid customs issues?

Confirm the correct product classification in advance, prepare a complete set of documents, and consider working with an experienced customs broker — this can help avoid delays, fines, and incorrect duty calculations.

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