Shipping Handcrafted Furniture Internationally: What to Expect

Shipping handcrafted furniture internationally is more straightforward than most clients expect — if the furniture maker has done it before and knows the process. We have been shipping from Cape Town to the USA, UK, Kenya, Botswana and beyond since 2014. Here is exactly what to expect.

How the process works, step by step

Step 1: Enquiry and quote

Contact us with your brief — the pieces you want, your preferred timber and weave specification, and your delivery address. We will respond within 24–48 hours with a fixed quote in your preferred currency (ZAR or USD) that includes all production costs, custom crating, freight and insurance to your door. No hidden costs, no freight surprises at the other end.

Step 2: Deposit and production

A 50% deposit confirms your order and starts production. We accept international bank transfer (SWIFT). Production typically takes 8–12 weeks from deposit, depending on the pieces ordered and our current workshop schedule.

During production, we send progress photographs at key stages — so you can see your piece being made and stay informed without needing to chase.

Step 3: Quality inspection and crating

Before shipping, every piece undergoes a full quality inspection. Once approved, pieces are custom-crated for international freight — we build timber crates specifically sized for each piece, with internal padding and protection suited to the fragility and value of the item.

Step 4: Balance payment and shipping

The balance of payment is due before shipping. Once received, we arrange door-to-door freight with a reputable international carrier. You receive a tracking number and regular shipping updates.

All shipments are fully insured to replacement value. In the event of transit damage — which is rare but possible — you are covered.

Step 5: Customs and delivery

We prepare all necessary export documentation, including commercial invoices and certificates of origin. For USA-bound shipments, we provide all documentation required for customs clearance. The freight agent we use has extensive experience with US customs and handles all clearance on your behalf.

Delivery is to your door, fully assembled. Transit times vary by destination — typically 2–3 weeks for USA, 1–2 weeks for UK and Europe.

Shipping to the USA specifically

The United States is our largest international market. We have shipped to Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and several other US cities since 2014 — starting with The Line Hotel in LA and growing to serve private collectors, interior designers and hospitality clients across the country.

South African timber furniture is classified under specific HTS codes for US customs. Our freight partner handles all classification and clearance. Import duty rates on wooden furniture from South Africa to the USA are currently 0% under the AGOA trade agreement — making South African handcrafted furniture particularly competitive on the US market.

What does international shipping cost?

International freight costs vary significantly based on the volume and weight of the shipment, the destination, and current carrier rates. As a rough guide, a single Nguni dining chair to the USA typically costs between $150–$250 in freight and insurance. Larger orders are more freight-efficient per piece.

We always provide a fully itemised quote that separates production cost, crating, freight and insurance — so you can see exactly what you are paying for.

Frequently asked questions

Do you ship fully assembled furniture internationally?

Yes — all pieces are shipped fully assembled. We custom-crate each piece to protect it during transit. You unpack and place.

Is there import duty on South African furniture in the USA?

South Africa benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides 0% import duty on qualifying products — including most timber furniture — exported to the USA. This makes South African handcrafted furniture competitively priced even after freight costs.

How long does shipping from Cape Town to the USA take?

Transit time from Cape Town to the US East Coast is typically 18–22 days by sea freight. Air freight options are available for urgent shipments at significantly higher cost — contact us to discuss.

What happens if a piece is damaged in transit?

All international shipments are insured to full replacement value. In the event of transit damage, we manage the insurance claim and arrange repair or replacement. You are never left out of pocket for a transit issue.

Can I order a single chair internationally?

Yes — we ship single pieces internationally. There is no minimum order quantity. For single pieces, air freight may be cost-effective depending on your timeline. We will advise on the best freight option for your specific order.