How to Source Custom Building Products Direct From China (Without Costly Mistakes)
Buying custom-made products directly from a manufacturer in China, rather than through a local showroom, can offer real savings and a much wider choice. But a custom product is only as good as the dimensions you give the factory.
Why measurements matter more when the supplier is overseas
A bathroom vanity that is 8 mm too wide, or a glass panel cut to a wall that isn’t square, can’t be fixed with a quick trip back to the supplier. This guide explains where accurate site data fits in, and the main things to check before you order.
- No second chances. Remakes mean new production, new freight and weeks of delay.
- Factories build exactly what the drawing says. If the drawing assumes square corners and plumb walls, the product will assume them too.
- Language and time zones add friction. A clear dimensioned drawing removes ambiguity.
- Returns are rarely practical. Custom items usually can’t be resold or returned.
What can be custom-made and imported
Common examples include vanities and bathroom joinery, kitchen cabinetry components, natural stone and porcelain or sintered slabs cut to template, glass splashbacks, shower screens and mirrors, and custom metalwork.
Know the Australian rules before you order
Importing is the buyer’s responsibility. These are the most common traps. This is general information only; always check current requirements with the relevant authority or a licensed customs broker.
Engineered stone is banned
Engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs have been prohibited imports since 1 January 2025, and their manufacture, supply, processing and installation has been banned in all Australian states and territories since 1 July 2024. Natural stone is not covered by the ban, and other materials such as porcelain and sintered products are treated separately, but the definition is technical, so confirm any material with the relevant work health and safety regulator before ordering. Do not order engineered (quartz-type) stone from overseas for a benchtop.
Plumbing products must meet Australian requirements
Taps, toilets, mixers, hoses and similar items that connect to plumbing generally need to be certified for use in Australia (for example, WaterMark certification). Many overseas products are not.
Electrical items need Australian approvals
Lighting, heated mirrors, exhaust fans and similar items need to meet Australian electrical safety requirements and be installed by a licensed electrician.
Safety glass
Glass used in showers, doors and other critical locations must meet Australian safety glazing standards.
Timber and plant products
These can be subject to biosecurity inspection and illegal-logging due diligence rules.
Building rules
The finished work still has to comply with the National Construction Code and local requirements. A licensed builder, plumber or certifier can advise.
The real cost of buying direct
The factory price is not the final price. Allow for: freight, insurance, customs duty where it applies, GST, customs broker fees, port and biosecurity charges, delivery to site, and installation.
Ask for a landed-cost quote and compare it with local prices, including local warranty and support.
10-point checklist before you place an order
Get accurate site measurements and templates first (this is where we come in).
Confirm the material is legal to import and suitable for your use.
Check that products meet Australian standards and certification requirements.
Ask for the factory’s business registration, references and photos of similar completed work.
Request a sample where practical.
Get detailed shop drawings and check every dimension against your site data before approving production.
Agree tolerances, finishes, packaging and what happens if items arrive damaged or incorrect.
Use a secure, traceable payment method, and avoid paying everything up front. Pay in stages tied to milestones.
Get a landed-cost quote including every fee, and a realistic timeline.
Check the delivered goods against your drawings before installation, and photograph any damage immediately.
We make sure the dimensions are right
We don’t make products and we are not a customs broker. We make sure the dimensions your factory works from are right.
Disclaimer: This page is general information, not legal, financial, customs or building advice. Rules change. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a qualified professional. Customers are responsible for choosing suppliers and products, and for complying with Australian import, safety and building requirements.
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