Wholesale Furniture Vendor For Businesses

An Overview of Wholesale Furniture Suppliers and Manufacturers in the USA

The wholesale furniture industry in the United States is large and diverse, comprising domestic manufacturers, importers, distributors, and specialty craftsmen. Major hubs for furniture manufacturing exist in North Carolina, California, and the Midwest, but quality suppliers can be found across the country.

Recent trends show demand for customized and unique handcrafted pieces made from reclaimed and sustainable materials. Consumers also want faster fulfillment times, lower costs, and excellent customer service. Furniture retailers must partner with reputable suppliers to source an appealing mix of products at wholesale prices.

A Brief History of the American Furniture Industry

Furniture-making has historically thrived in America. Early colonists brought skills from Europe. Prominent clusters emerged in urban centers on the East Coast. With the expansion West and new inventions like machine-cut parts, large furniture companies were founded in the late 1800s.

Demand grew rapidly in the 20th century as households purchased beds, tables, and other domestic furniture. Today modern manufacturing techniques combine with traditional hand-craftsmanship for quality pieces. Customization and green materials are now popular.

Major Wholesale Furniture Hubs and Clusters

North Carolina has long been a furniture manufacturing hub, with clusters like High Point and Hickory producing wood furniture and upholstery. The Midwest also has major clusters of Amish furniture craftsmen.

California is home to contemporary and modern furniture manufacturers feeding the West Coast market. Beyond these hubs, quality suppliers can be found across the country.

Top Wholesale Furniture Suppliers in the United States

Reputable American furniture brands and distributors to consider include:

Domestic Manufacturers

• Thomasville – A heritage North Carolina brand making classic customizable upholstery and wood furniture.

• Lexington – Known for upscale traditional and contemporary designs for every room.

• Bernhardt – High-end furnishings from this 130 year old North Carolina company.

• Hooker Furniture – Virginia-based maker of eclectic furniture spanning traditional to modern.

• Stanley Furniture – This nearly 100 year old Virginia giant offers classic American style designs.

• Vaughan-Bassett – Bedroom, dining, and living room furniture crafted in Virginia.

• Copeland Furniture – Vermont-based leader in eco-friendly solid hardwood furniture.

Importers & Distributors

• Ashley Furniture – Top furniture importer with over 700 stores and wholesale distribution.

• Raymour & Flanigan – Major Northeast US furniture retailer with wholesale furniture offerings.

• Rooms To Go – Florida-based importer and retailer with wholesale furniture distribution.

• Amazon Commercial Furniture – The ecommerce giant offers B2B furniture sales and fulfillment.

• Overstock Commercial – Wholesale furniture division of discount etailer Overstock.com.

Specialty & Custom Manufacturers

• Amish furniture makers – Handcrafted solid wood furniture made to order by Amish craftsmen.

• Custom upholstery shops – Local businesses crafting sofas, chairs, headboards and other customized upholstered pieces.

• Local woodworkers and artisans – Craftsmen making one-of-a-kind furniture with reclaimed woods and sustainable materials.

Key Factors When Working With Furniture Suppliers

Establishing successful partnerships with wholesale furniture suppliers involves careful consideration of several factors:

Minimum Order Quantities

Domestic manufacturers typically have higher MOQs than importers and distributors. Special deals can lower MOQs for bulk orders. Small order fees may apply under a certain threshold.

Quality Control & Compliance

Reputable suppliers adhere to safety standards and conduct quality inspections. Look for certifications like FSC, Greenguard, and CARB compliance.

Lead Times

Custom pieces involve longer lead times. Imported containers also take months. Plan inventory needs accordingly. Ask about quick-ship in-stock items.

Pricing

Wholesale cost directly from a manufacturer is lower than buying through an importer or distributor. Negotiate better pricing at high volumes.

Logistics & Delivery

Arrange freight shipment and final mile delivery. Have a plan for claims if damage occurs. Some suppliers offer warehousing and fulfillment services.

Finding Unique and Specialty Furniture

Beyond mainstay wholesale brands, consider these specialty suppliers:

Amish Furniture

Handcrafted by Amish woodworkers, this furniture has excellent quality and customizable options. Lead times are long but the craftsmanship is unparalleled.

Reclaimed & Upcycled Furniture

Sourcing reclaimed barn woods or sustainably harvested materials gives uniqueness. Upcycling vintage pieces also provides one-of-a-kind designs.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Pieces

Choose suppliers using FSC certified lumber from responsible sources. Eco-friendly furniture made with recycled and organic materials is also available.

Key Recommendations for Furniture Wholesalers & Retailers

• Develop long-term relationships with core suppliers for better pricing and terms.

• Balance affordability and quality to appeal to wide customer segments.

• Curate a thoughtful product mix of unique designs and staple bread-and-butter pieces.

• Where possible, offer customization and made-to-order options on frames, finishes, and fabrics.

• Provide excellent customer support and service when issues like damage arise.

In Summary

There is a vast selection of wholesale furniture suppliers across the United States. Domestic manufacturers, importers, distributors and specialty makers each bring something unique. Pay close attention to factors like minimums, lead times, and logistics when sourcing furnishings. With the right partners, furniture retailers can acquire quality pieces at wholesale prices to drive sales and revenue.