Quick answer: Importing lighting from China involves finding a reliable supplier, confirming the specification, paying in advance, arranging shipping, clearing customs and inspecting the goods. A local sourcing partner such as Nabulax handles all of this for you and delivers the order anywhere in Bangladesh.
Many of the lighting designs people see online are made in China and never reach shops in Bangladesh. If you want a specific fitting for a home or a project, importing is often the only way to get it. Here is what the process involves and where it tends to go wrong.
Why import at all?
- The exact design, size or finish is not available locally.
- A project needs a consistent product in larger quantities.
- You need a particular specification, such as a certain wattage, colour temperature or IP rating.
The steps involved
- Finding the right supplier. The same photo is often used by many sellers with very different quality.
- Confirming the specification. Size, material, light source, driver, voltage and finish all need to be agreed in writing.
- Payment. Suppliers normally require payment before production or dispatch.
- Shipping. Fragile fittings need proper packing, and the shipping method affects both cost and delivery time.
- Customs clearance. Import duties, taxes and documentation have to be handled correctly.
- Inspection and delivery. Goods should be checked for damage and correctness before they reach the site.
Common problems when importing yourself
- The product received does not match the photo.
- Glass or crystal parts arrive broken.
- Drivers are not suited to the local power supply.
- Unexpected costs appear at customs.
- There is nobody to speak to locally if something fails.
How custom orders work with Nabulax
You do not have to manage any of this yourself. Send us a photo, a link, a drawing or a BOQ through our Request a Quote page. We identify suitable suppliers, confirm the specification and send you a quotation with an estimated lead time. Custom import orders are confirmed with pre-payment. We then handle purchasing, shipping, clearance and checking, and deliver the products to you anywhere in Bangladesh.
What to send for a faster quote
- A clear photo or product link
- The size and finish you want
- Quantity
- Where the light will be used (indoor or outdoor)
- Your delivery location and target date
Read more about how our sourcing process works.
What makes up the final cost?
The factory price is only part of what you pay. A realistic budget includes:
- Product price from the supplier
- Packing, especially for glass and crystal
- International freight, by sea or air
- Import duties and taxes
- Clearing and handling charges
- Local delivery to your site
Our quotations show the landed price, so you know the full cost before you decide.
Sea freight or air freight?
| Sea freight | Air freight | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Cost | Lower per item, best for bulk | Higher, best for small or urgent orders |
| Suits | Project quantities, large fittings | One-off pieces, samples, tight deadlines |
What can be imported?
- Designer pendants and chandeliers in custom sizes and finishes
- Architectural lighting such as linear profiles, track systems and magnetic track lights
- Outdoor and facade lighting with specific IP ratings
- Hotel, restaurant and showroom lighting packages
- Switches, sockets and electrical accessories in project volumes
Who uses custom import?
Homeowners who want one particular design. Interior designers who need fittings that match a concept. Contractors and developers supplying whole buildings from a lighting BOQ. Restaurants and shops that need the same fitting in quantity.
Frequently asked questions
Can I import a single light from China?
Yes. We import single pieces as well as project quantities. The cost per item is lower when more pieces are shipped together.
Do I have to pay in advance for an import order?
Yes. Custom import orders are confirmed with pre-payment, because the products are purchased specifically for you.
How long does it take to import lights to Bangladesh?
It depends on the product, the supplier and whether it ships by sea or air. Your quotation includes an estimated lead time.
Do imported lights come with warranty?
Products come with warranty. The terms for your specific order are confirmed on your quotation.
