By Martina Kao    Photo：CANVA

As the global outdoor lifestyle trend continues to grow, products like balcony chairs, folding tables, and patio umbrellas—once seen as seasonal items—are now becoming regular export staples with steady growth. According to Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, the country’s total furniture exports (HS Code 94) reached approximately USD 1.747 billion in 2024. Outdoor furniture is taking up a larger share each year, with the U.S. and Japan consistently ranking as Taiwan’s top two export destinations.

But having a good product is just the beginning. To successfully export furniture overseas, you also need to navigate the logistics details—material classification, customs documentation, packaging design, and quarantine requirements — the real key to a successful shipment.

It’s Not Just About the Product—It’s About Knowing the Rules

In the world of outdoor furniture, the material you use affects not only the applicable customs duties but also how strict the quarantine checks will be.
“One of the most common issues we see is getting returned at the port because they’re missing the IPPC stamp, or the material was mis declared and the duty costs skyrocket,”

For example, wooden outdoor furniture typically requires fumigation or an internationally recognized IPPC stamp. Without it, your shipment could be held up or even turned away at customs in countries like the U.S., Australia, or Japan.
Metal furniture doesn’t require fumigation, but its heavier weight and rigidity mean it’s more prone to scratches or dents if not properly packed.
“The biggest mistake? Thinking you can just toss everything in a container and ship it. Overlook the small details in classification or packaging, and you could end up paying in tariffs—or worse, in lost reputation.”

U.S. and Japan Still Lead, but ASEAN Markets Are Emerging

In 2023, the U.S. accounted for over 57% of Taiwan’s furniture exports, with Japan following at about 12.7%. These two markets are not only design-conscious, but also strict when it comes to import standards and material compliance.
For instance, if your furniture includes electrical parts—like solar-powered lamps or USB charging chairs—you’ll need to meet Japan’s PSE safety certification requirements.

At the same time, Taiwan exporters are eyeing emerging markets in Southeast Asia, where urbanization in countries like Vietnam and Thailand is opening new doors. However, these newer markets also bring more complex logistics needs and often require more tailored planning around customs, trade agreements, and delivery flexibility.

People often think packaging is just about “wrapping it up,” but in the export business, it’s also a form of risk management.
Outdoor furniture is bulky, often comes in multiple parts, and is easily damaged in transit. Basic cardboard boxes often aren’t enough—they can collapse, shift during stacking, or allow surfaces to get scratched.

Here are a few practical packaging tips:

• Wooden furniture: Add moisture-proof wrapping and honeycomb board for compression protection
• Metal parts: Use desiccants and anti-rust layers
• Glass tabletops: Include foam cushioning and clearly mark “FRAGILE” on the outer box
• All packaging: Clearly label material type, HS Code, and country of origin

Buyers may first see the box, but what they really notice is your professionalism and attention to detail.

Export veterans may have well-oiled processes, but in a world where market regulations evolve quickly and origin labeling or customs documentation gets more complex, precision and efficiency are key to staying competitive.

Key areas even experienced exporters should keep reviewing:

• Product classification and material declaration: Have design updates or mixed materials changed your HS Code or duty rate?
• Invoices, packing lists, and customs data: Are they detailed enough with model numbers, materials, and origin to avoid delays?
• Shipping methods (LCL vs. FCL): Are you adjusting based on seasonality and order volumes?
• IPPC compliance and fumigation documents: Are your processes updated to reflect the latest rules in key markets like the U.S. and Japan?
• Supporting documents: Are certificates of origin and product specs aligned with your buyer’s import requirements?

Taiwanese furniture is no longer just OEM—it’s designed, high-quality, and ready for global markets.
Whether you're shipping from a Taiwan factory or launching cross-border e-commerce from a brand office, smart planning and avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your products arrive safely, on time, and ready to impress customers around the world.

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