How to export furniture from Indonesia is a common question for international buyers, as the country is recognized as the world’s leading furniture producers, offering quality craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and competitive pricing.
With growing global demand for Indonesian furniture, particularly teak, rattan, and solid wood products, understanding the export process is essential for manufacturers, exporters, and overseas importers alike.
Republic Furniture want to share guide about Indonesian furniture export for the global market provides clear and practical insights into regulations, documentation, logistics, and best practices to help ensure a smooth and compliant export journey.
How to Export Furniture from Indonesia?
Here is the key stages of Indonesia’s furniture export guide for international buyers.
1. Choose a Reputable and Verified Supplier
Guide to export furniture from Indonesia start by selecting a furniture supplier in Indonesia with a proven track record, valid business licenses, and positive international trade experience.
A reputable supplier ensures product quality, legal compliance, and reliable communication throughout the export process.
2. Find Direct Furniture Manufacturer (For Best Price)
Working directly with Indonesia furniture manufacturer helps eliminate intermediaries.
This allows you to obtain more competitive pricing, better production control, and greater flexibility in customization and order volume.
You can partner with Republic Furniture as trusted Indonesian furniture manufacturer in Jepara since 1999 to get export-ready quality and dedicated support for your global furniture projects.
3. Request Detailed Product Specifications and Samples
Always ask for complete furniture product details, including materials, dimensions, finishes, certifications, and packaging standards.
Requesting samples allows you to verify quality and craftsmanship before committing to a large order.
Also Read: How to Choose Indonesia Furniture Manufacturer for Global Buyers4. Choose Indonesian Furniture for Your Needs
Indonesia furniture offers a wide range of furniture styles and materials, such as teak, rattan, and solid wood.
Carefully select products that match your market preferences, usage requirements, and durability expectations.
5. Ask for Custom Furniture (If Available)
Many Indonesian manufacturers provide custom furniture services.
Discuss design modifications, materials, finishes, and branding options early to ensure feasibility, cost transparency, and accurate production timelines.
6. Clarify Shipping and Export Terms and Costs
Confirm export terms such as Incoterms (FOB, CIF, or EXW), shipping costs, insurance coverage, and delivery timelines.
Clear agreements help prevent misunderstandings and unexpected expenses.
7. Use Secure Payment Methods and Contracts
Protect your transaction by using secure payment methods and formal sales contracts.
Clearly define payment terms, delivery schedules, quality standards, and dispute resolution clauses.
8. Request Furniture Usage Documentation
Ask for documentation such as care instructions, material specifications, and safety guidelines.
These documents add value for end users and support compliance with regulations in your destination country.
9. Finalize and Place Your Order
Once all specifications, prices, and terms are agreed upon, formally confirm the order in writing.
This step typically includes issuing a purchase order and making the initial payment.
10. Prepare All Requirements for Export Shipping
Ensure all export documents are ready, including the commercial invoice, packing list, Bill of Lading, SVLK or FLEGT documentation (if applicable), and insurance certificates.
Also Read: Required Documents for Importing Furniture from Indonesia11. Arrange International Freight (Sea or Air Shipping Options)
Select the most suitable shipping method based on cost, urgency, and cargo volume.
Sea freight is commonly used for bulk furniture orders, while air freight is suitable for smaller or time-sensitive shipments.
12. Handle Customs Clearance in Your Destination Country
Coordinate with a licensed customs broker to manage import declarations, duties, and taxes.
Proper preparation helps avoid delays, penalties, or shipment holds at the destination port.
13. Receive Your Furniture
After customs clearance, arrange local delivery or warehouse pickup.
Confirm delivery schedules and handling procedures to ensure safe transportation to the final location.
14. Don’t Forget to Check All Furniture Conditions
Inspect the furniture upon arrival to ensure it matches agreed specifications and is free from damage.
Prompt inspection allows you to address any issues with the supplier or insurance provider in a timely manner.
Essential Documents Required for Furniture Export
Preparing the essential documents required for furniture export is crucial to ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid costly delays.
Proper documentation demonstrates compliance and protects your shipment throughout the export process.
Let’s find out which documents are mandatory and how to prepare them correctly for a successful furniture export.
1. Commercial Invoice (Sales Invoice)
The commercial invoice is the primary legal document issued by the exporter to the buyer.
It includes essential details such as the seller and buyer information, product description, quantity, unit price, total value, payment terms, and Incoterms.
Customs authorities use this document to assess duties, taxes, and compliance with import regulations.
Also Read: 10+ Reasons Why Indonesian Furniture Is So Popular2. Bill of Lading (Shipping Document)
The Bill of Lading (B/L) is issued by the shipping line or freight forwarder and serves as proof of shipment, a receipt of goods, and a document of title.
It outlines shipment details such as the consignor, consignee, port of loading, port of destination, and cargo description.
This document is required to claim the goods at the destination port.
3. Detailed Packing List
A detailed packing list provides a complete breakdown of the items in the shipment, including package numbers, dimensions, weight, quantity, and packaging type.
It helps customs officers, freight handlers, and buyers verify the contents of the shipment and facilitates efficient cargo inspection and handling.
4. Certificate of Origin (Country of Manufacture)
The Certificate of Origin confirms the country where the furniture was manufactured.
This document is often required to determine applicable import duties, trade agreements, or preferential tariffs.
It also assures buyers and authorities that the goods comply with origin regulations.
5. Valid Import License (If Required)
Depending on your destination country, a valid import license may be required to legally import furniture.
This license is issued by the relevant government authority and confirms that the importer is authorized to bring furniture products into the country in accordance with local regulations.
Why Export Furniture from Indonesia?
Indonesia has established itself as one of the world’s leading furniture export countries, supported by rich natural resources, skilled craftsmanship, and a strong commitment to sustainable production.
Here are some of the reasons that makes Indonesia a preferred sourcing destination for furniture buyers worldwide.
1. Indonesia Is a Top Exporter of Solid Wood (Especially Jepara Teak Wood)
Indonesia is globally recognized as a major exporter of solid wood furniture, particularly premium teak wood from Jepara.
Jepara teak is valued for its strength, natural oils, and resistance to weather and pests, making it ideal for long-lasting indoor and outdoor furniture.
2. Historical and Popular Legacy
Indonesia’s furniture industry is built on a long-standing legacy that spans centuries.
This historical background has shaped strong production standards and global recognition, positioning Indonesian furniture as a trusted choice among international buyers.
Also Read: History of Teak Furniture from Royal Origins to Modern Luxury3. High-Quality Materials & Craftsmanship
Indonesian furniture manufacturers prioritize high-quality raw materials combined with precise craftsmanship.
Each piece is carefully produced to meet international durability, safety, and aesthetic standards required in global markets.
4. Mastery of Artisan Techniques
Skilled artisans in Indonesia possess advanced woodworking and carving techniques passed down through generations.
This mastery allows manufacturers to produce detailed designs, strong structures, and refined finishes that distinguish Indonesian furniture from mass-produced alternatives.
5. Modern, Elegant, and Timeless Appearance
Indonesian furniture successfully blends traditional craftsmanship with modern and elegant design concepts.
This balance creates timeless pieces that appeal to various international markets, from luxury hospitality projects to residential interiors.
6. Competitive Pricing & Cost-Effective Production
Indonesia offers cost-effective furniture production due to efficient manufacturing processes and local access to raw materials.
This enables global buyers to obtain high-quality furniture at competitive prices without sacrificing quality.
7. Sustainability and Legal Compliance
Strict government regulations, including SVLK and FLEGT licensing, ensure that Indonesian furniture is produced using legally sourced and sustainably managed wood.
This compliance enhances buyer confidence and supports environmentally responsible trade.
8. Customization and Flexibility
Indonesian furniture manufacturers are known for their flexibility in meeting buyer requirements.
Custom designs, materials, finishes, and dimensions can be accommodated, making Indonesia an ideal sourcing country for bespoke furniture projects.
9. Diverse Product Range
Indonesia produces a wide variety of furniture, including indoor, outdoor, residential, commercial, and hospitality collections.
This diverse product range allows buyers to source multiple furniture categories from a single country efficiently.
Indonesia’s position as a leading furniture exporter is supported by its premium raw materials, skilled craftsmanship, sustainable production practices, and strong global reputation.
To ensure a smooth and trustworthy sourcing experience, partnering with a reputable exporter is essential.
Republic Furniture stands out as a leading Indonesia furniture manufacturer and exporter in the global market since 1999, offering legally certified products, consistent quality, and professional export services, making it a trusted partner for buyers worldwide.
Source:
- https://www.karyaexindoprima.com/tips-for-buying-export-furniture-from-indonesia
- https://nusantaralifestyle.com/importing-furniture-from-bali/
- https://mobelindo.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-importing-furniture-from-indonesia
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9CtpHn7o68
- https://www.indonesiatradedata.com/blogs/import-furniture-from-indonesia
- https://www.uniaircargo.co.id/blog/export-import/how-to-import-or-buy-teak-wood-furniture-from-indonesia
