I recently purchased some hardware direct from China. Did a test run of about $1,500 in parts and they look great. $0.50 vs. $3.50 from the US distributor who I'm sure has them made there and marks them up 7 fold. I'm definitely going to be sourcing more of my hardware directly.

But I'm also considering sourcing panels as well. Specifically 3/4 black melamine that I'm currently paying about $52/sheet for and looks like I can get for $20 + freight. Thinking of ordering in the neighborhood of 300 sheets. Anybody done this before? I know quality won't be as good as domestic, so that's not an issue. I'm more interested in the logistics of it.

Hi James, what type of machinery have you had success with from China?

We've purchased a 4x8 cold press recently and it seems to be working fine.

James good evening.
Im thinking of buying a beam saw and 6 side cnc machine from China. Im hasitate doing it becouse I here conflicting opinion about it, some for it some against it. How do you deal with payments, delivery, custom, machine install and training. can you shed lights on this subject.
Thank you

Once you set a deal with a supplier, you recieve a proforma (Invoice of sorts) shipping by supplier ot you must be set at this point, the proforma is what you are getting, generally you pay 30-40% by wire transfer, the supplier builds or packages machine. photos it and sends this to you you will pay balance before shipping, the supplier details shipping info and bill of lading (Crucial) if you are selt importing there are services which charge a fee for documentation and bonds. insurance etc. i have used John S James company for a rep and online Ezimport

Lots of good used machinery out there with Techs that know how to work on and trouble shoot them stateside. Problem with imports still is that if it breaks and you can't fix or trouble shoot it you are out of production for a long time.

For me If I am out of production for a week then I will likely be out of business.

You'd think folks would've learned by now the longer your supply chain is the more vulnerable it is. Buy American you cheapskates, or bite your nose to spite your face what do I care.

Some items are much simpler to import than others. Primed mdf moulding is both cheaper and better quality than local. Machinery can be tricky. I personally would be hesitant to import a cnc or a beam saw. Too many European versions available at auctions at lower cost than a new Chinese one. We did purchase an automated picture frame machine from China two years ago for 20% of the cost of the Italian one and have shot at least 400,000 v nails through it. Still going strong. We also purchased a heated vacuum press and cold press. Both are very simple machines that we were able to install and can be serviced by anyone.

Not importing because there's going to be a hiccup in the supply chain every 10 years is going to cost you a lot of money long term.