Permalsteel· Permalsteel · Buying Guides · 4 min read
How to Import Custom Steel Doors & Windows from China — A Step-by-Step Guide
From drawings and deposits to inspection and sea freight, here's exactly how a made-to-order steel door or window order works when importing from a Chinese manufacturer.
Buying custom steel doors and windows from an overseas manufacturer can feel intimidating if you’ve never done it. In reality, the process is predictable — once you understand the steps. This guide walks you through what to expect, what to prepare, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
1. Start with clear requirements
The more precise your brief, the more accurate your first quote will be. For each opening, try to have:
- Dimensions (width × height, in mm if possible)
- Product type — hinged, sliding, folding, pivot, fixed, etc.
- Glass — clear, low-E, tempered, laminated, or a combination
- Finish — color and whether you want powder coat or fluorocarbon
- Hardware — locks, handles, hinges, and any brand preferences
- Quantity and your rough timeline
Reference images and architectural drawings are extremely helpful. Even a sketch on a napkin gives us something to work from.
2. Confirm the solution and quote
A good manufacturer will review your brief and return a fixed, itemized quotation — not a vague ballpark. Expect to see:
- Unit price per product, and any quantity-based discounts
- Glass and hardware specifications
- Lead time (typically 8–12 weeks for made-to-order steel)
- Payment terms (commonly a 50% deposit to start production)
- Shipping terms (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.)
Make sure every line is clear before you commit. A transparent quote at this stage prevents disputes later.
3. Pay the deposit and approve shop drawings
Once the deposit is received, production doesn’t start immediately. First you receive shop drawings — detailed technical drawings showing every dimension, profile, and detail of your exact order.
This is the single most important step. Review the drawings carefully. Once you sign off, you own those dimensions. Changes after approval cause delays and extra cost.
4. Production and quality control
Steel fabrication is a multi-step process: cutting, welding, straightening, grinding, surface treatment, glazing, and assembly. A reputable manufacturer inspects at multiple checkpoints — for example, after welding, after coating, and before packing.
Ask whether your supplier provides photo or video records of your finished products. A manufacturer that documents inspection gives you confidence before anything ships.
5. Pre-shipment inspection and balance payment
Before your order is packed, you should receive photos and videos for final approval. At this point the balance payment is typically due. Only then is the order released for shipping.
If you want independent verification, a third-party inspection can be arranged at most factories.
6. Shipping and delivery
Your manufacturer should coordinate freight and prepare the export documents — commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any certificates of origin. Doors and windows are heavy and fragile, so proper crating and sea-freight packing are essential.
Decide early who handles customs and final delivery in your country, and make sure it’s reflected in your incoterms.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Approving drawings without checking them — the most frequent cause of disputes.
- Vague briefs — “standard size” means nothing across borders; give real measurements.
- Comparing quotes on price alone — a cheaper quote often hides thinner steel, simpler coatings, or weaker glass.
- Ignoring lead time — 8–12 weeks is normal for quality made-to-order steel; plan your project around it.
Ready to start?
Permalsteel exports custom steel doors and windows to Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Europe. Send us your drawings or specifications and our team will respond within 48 hours with a detailed, no-obligation quotation.
See our full ordering process or contact us directly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum order quantity? It varies by product and specification. Contact us with your quantities — we’re flexible, and small and mixed orders are often possible.
How long does production take? Typically 8–12 weeks for made-to-order steel, depending on complexity and quantity. Allow additional time for sea freight.
What payment terms do you accept? A 50% deposit to begin production and the balance before shipment is our standard. We can discuss terms for established relationships.
