Foshan, located in Guangdong Province, is globally renowned for its massive furniture markets. The Shunde district, home to numerous furniture malls and factories, attracts international buyers seeking high-quality products at competitive prices. If you’re planning to purchase furniture for your home, business, or wholesale purposes, careful preparation is essential. Here are key tips to help you make the most of your trip to China.
Ⅰ. Prepare Your Project Specifications
Preparation is critical before your trip. Knowing your exact requirements will save time and ensure effective communication with suppliers.
| Details to Prepare | Examples |
|---|---|
| Project Type | Hotel, office, restaurant, home, wholesale, etc. |
| Required Documentation | Drawings, floor plans, room dimensions, and furniture measurements. |
| Material Preferences | Consult contractors about material needs. |
Suppliers often require these specifications to offer accurate recommendations and quotations, especially for custom-made items.
Ⅱ. Create a Shopping List and Prepare Your Visa
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Shopping List | Include item names, descriptions, materials, sizes, and quantities. |
| Visa | Apply in advance and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months. |
| Invitation Letter | Some consulates require an invitation letter from Chinese suppliers. |
Sample Shopping List Template:
| Item Name | Material | Dimensions (cm) | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee Table | Solid Wood | 120x60x40 | 5 |
| Armchairs | Leather | 80x80x100 | 10 |
Ⅲ. Choose the Best Time to Visit
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Avoid Public Holidays | Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb), National Day (Oct 1-7). |
| Consider Trade Shows | Visit during CIFF (March, September) or Canton Fair (April, October) for bulk purchasing. |
| Seasonal Considerations | Airfare and accommodation are cheaper during October-December and March-May. |
Ⅳ. Visit During Exhibition Time or Not?
China hosts several major furniture exhibitions every year, offering excellent opportunities for buyers. Here are the key events to consider:
| Exhibition | Dates | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| China International Furniture Fair (CIFF) | 18th March – 21st March | Home furniture |
| China International Furniture Fair (CIFF) | 28th March – 31st March | Office furniture |
| Canton Fair (1st Phase) | 15th April – 19th April | Building materials |
| Canton Fair (1st Phase) | 15th October – 19th October | Building materials |
Should You Visit During Exhibition Time?
- Pros:
- More options available, especially for wholesale buyers.
- Access to new product launches and trends.
- Cons:
- Higher flight and hotel costs during exhibition periods.
- Retail or small-quantity buyers may find limited options, as most suppliers focus on bulk orders during exhibitions.
Tip: If your goal is to purchase for resale or bulk orders, visiting during these fairs is highly recommended. However, for smaller projects or custom needs, visiting outside of exhibition times may provide a more relaxed and cost-effective experience.
Ⅴ. Where to Stay in Foshan
Selecting accommodations close to the furniture markets can save significant time and energy.
| Hotel Name | Star Rating | Price (per night) | Proximity to Markets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marco Polo Lingnan Tiandi | 5-star | ~$100 | Located in the city center. |
| Crowne Plaza Foshan | 5-star | ~$100 | Traditional 5-star hotel in Foshan’s city center. |
| Swissotel Foshan | 5-star | ~$100 | Foshan’s tallest hotel, offering stunning views. |
| Sofitel Foshan | 5-star | ~$145 | Next to Louvre Furniture Mall. |
| Fortuna Hotel | 4-star | ~$80 | Close to key furniture markets. |
| Vienna Hotel (Temple Station) | 3-star | ~$54 | Near public transport and furniture malls. |
| Spirior Hotel | 3-star | ~$45 | 5 minutes by car to the nearest furniture mall. |
| Park Lane Hotel | 3.5-star | ~$63 | Conveniently located for market access. |
| Golden City Hotel | 3-star | ~$38 | Located in the city center. |
Note: Avoid staying in Guangzhou if purchasing furniture in Foshan to minimize daily travel time.
Ⅵ. Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes
Your purchase trip will involve extensive walking and long hours.
| Season | Clothing Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Lightweight clothing, a hat, and a light jacket. |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Light, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear. |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Layered outfits for varying temperatures. |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Warm clothing, including a jacket, scarf, and gloves. |
Shoe Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and an extra pair to rotate daily. Carry band-aids for blisters.
Ⅶ. Manage Currency and Payments
| Payment Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Cash | Essential for small purchases; exchange at airports or ATMs. |
| Credit Cards | Widely accepted (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx). Inform your bank before traveling. |
| Currency Exchange Tip | Avoid unofficial exchanges; exchange small amounts only for emergencies. |
Ⅷ. Essential Apps and Connectivity
| App | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Messaging, file sharing, and mobile payments. | |
| DiDi | Ride-hailing app similar to Uber, with an English version available. |
| VPN | Access blocked sites like Google, Gmail, and WhatsApp. |
| SIM Card | Purchase a local SIM for internet and calls. |
Ⅸ. Explore Foshan’s Culture and Cuisine
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Zumiao Ancestral Temple | A historic site with traditional architecture. |
| Lingnan Tiandi | A blend of traditional and modern cultural landmarks. |
| Xiqiao Mountain National Park | Scenic hikes and breathtaking views. |
| Bruce Lee Park | Tribute to the Kung Fu legend. |
Foshan is also known for its Cantonese cuisine and diverse dining options, including halal and Indian restaurants.
Ⅹ. Work with a Furniture Manufacturer like Boke Furniture
When planning a furniture purchase trip to China, partnering directly with a trusted manufacturer like Boke Furniture can save time, reduce risks, and ensure high-quality results.
| Service | How Boke Furniture Helps |
|---|---|
| Product Expertise | With years of experience, Boke Furniture specializes in custom and wholesale furniture for hotels, offices, and residential projects. |
| Market Insights | We guide you through the vast furniture markets, helping you focus on products that match your requirements. |
| Direct Manufacturing | As a leading furniture manufacturer, we offer factory-direct prices without middlemen. |
| Customization | We provide tailor-made solutions to fit your project’s unique design and functional needs. |
| Quality Assurance | Every piece undergoes strict quality control to meet international standards. |
| Logistics Support | From packaging to shipping, Boke Furniture ensures smooth delivery to your destination. |
By working directly with Boke Furniture, you eliminate the guesswork of navigating multiple suppliers and gain a reliable partner dedicated to fulfilling your project’s vision.
Final Thoughts
A successful furniture purchase trip depends on strong partnerships. Boke Furniture, a leading manufacturer in China, is committed to providing high-quality products, exceptional service, and seamless logistics support.
Ready to start? Contact us today to discuss your furniture needs!