In furniture retail, margin is usually decided not by the purchase price but by how predictable the supply chain is. A supplier who is cheap but delivers late takes back more than the price advantage in lost customers.

1. Get lead times in writing

A verbal "ready in two weeks" commits nobody. Having production and shipping times stated separately on the order confirmation is what lets you give your own customer a date with confidence.

2. Ask about production capacity

How many sets your supplier can build per month in peak season determines how much you can safely sell. Visit the workshop if you can.

3. Fabric continuity

A fabric you show a customer today needs to still be available in six months. Otherwise follow-on orders and replacements become a problem. Ask your supplier how stable the range is.

4. Flexibility for made-to-order

Being able to change size, fabric and colour wins you the sales a standard product would lose. Establish the extra lead time and any minimum quantity up front.

5. Packing and shipping

Damage in transit costs you money and reputation. Agree the packing standard and the process for damaged goods before you order, not after.

6. After-sales

How quickly a supplier responds when a part needs replacing directly affects your relationship with your own customer. Ask for the warranty scope and the spare-parts process in writing.

Sancar Life supplies furniture retailers at wholesale. Our dealers get a dedicated ordering and account panel — get in touch for our terms.