What should an overseas sourcing budget include?
Compare the complete project cost, identify exclusions and allocate measurement, import and installation responsibilities early.
The practical answer
Budget for the products, project services, packing, freight, import-related costs, local delivery and installation. Add appropriate allowances for the project’s unresolved risks. Compare quotations only after checking scope, delivery terms and the responsibilities on both sides.
Build a complete cost picture
The quoted product price is one part of the decision. A useful project budget separates product supply from services and logistics. Some lines may be included in a package; others may be paid directly to a third party.
Product and specification choices affect the quote. Freight, import requirements and local charges depend on the destination, shipment and current conditions. Obtain current quotes and destination advice for your project rather than relying on a fixed percentage or a historical freight figure.
| Cost line | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| Products | Quantity, materials, hardware and finishes |
| Project services | Drawings, sourcing, coordination and inspection scope |
| Packing & freight | Protection, shipping basis and included charges |
| Import & local delivery | Destination costs and responsible party |
| Installation | Local labour, tools, interfaces and site preparation |
| Allowances | Unresolved changes, spare parts or other project risks |
Make the commercial model clear
Under NOVARTE Managed Supply, the agreed package is quoted by NOVARTE and margin is included in the supply price. Under Transparent Sourcing, suitable supplier quotations can be shown and a sourcing management fee is agreed. A Hybrid project combines these approaches for different parts of the package.
The correct route depends on the products and work involved. Confirm what the quote includes, what is paid separately and when approval is required.
Allocate responsibilities before production
These roles are agreed for the actual project. A supplier’s location does not determine who handles import, site measurement or local installation.
| Task | Confirm with your project team |
|---|---|
| Final site measurement | Who measures, checks and signs off? |
| Drawing approval | Who approves layouts, interfaces and revisions? |
| Local requirements | Who verifies applicable product and installation requirements? |
| Shipment & import | Who arranges each leg and handles destination processes? |
| Installation & arrival checks | Who receives, inspects and fits the products? |
| Issues & replacement parts | Who reports, assesses and coordinates the response? |
When a project may need a different route
A very small order, urgent replacement or an item with complex local requirements may be better sourced locally. Large, clearly specified cabinetry or interior packages may warrant a cross-border review. Evaluate the complete cost and the team needed to deliver it.
Send your city, scope, project stage and target date with a plan or list. NOVARTE can discuss project fit and identify the next information needed before a detailed quotation.
Common questions
How much will I save by sourcing from China?+
There is no reliable universal percentage. Compare current, like-for-like quotations for the full delivered and installed package, including services, destination costs and project risks.
Can you give a fixed freight or lead time now?+
Freight and timing depend on the current route, product package, approval stage and shipment details. They need confirmation for the actual project.