FAQs of North Carolina Furniture Shopping

1. What is North Carolina Discount Furniture?

    Discounting of furniture started in the 60s and spread across the State. In recent years the discounting practice has spread to other states on a limited basis.
    IN GENERAL, FURNITURE DISCOUNTING IS UNIQUE TO NORTH CAROLINA!!

    Most furniture retailers sell at discounts of 40 - 60% off suggested retail prices. Since furniture is typically marked up 100% - 150%, this discounting represents margins of 17 - 30%. Economies of volume, reduced operating costs, and and lower profit expectations contribute to these smaller margins.

2. Can I receive catalogues of the retailer's furniture?

    Not really. Since the typical retailer carries between 100 and 400 lines or collections, the mailing of a comprehensive catalogue is impractical. However, a general information brochure listing lines and ordering and delivery policies is normally mailed in response to each inquiry.

    Retailers are willing to provide specific brochures based on stated requirements.

3. Why aren't lines, products, and prices shown on-line so I can comparison shop and then buy online?

    Numerous obstacles prevent implementation of these service features. First, the huge numbers of manufacturers, models, woods, and upholstery fabrics add up to database that would be unmanageable for convenient access and updating. Second, to purchase most furniture items, particularly upholstery, purchaser want to see the see the specific color, texture, or grain. The bandwidth requirements lead to longer download times than most surfers are willing to accept. Third, many manufacturers contractually require discount dealers to refrain from mentioning either their product names or prices on-line to protect the interests of local dealers around the country.

    A more productive approach is to narrow your search by visiting your stores and understanding the names, styles, and numbers of the furniture that you wish to consider. By conducting your background research, the retailer will likely consider you a serious customer.

4. How can I do business with Carolina retailers?

    You may start by making a general inquiry for information? This might result in a request for more information or the mailing of a generic welcome letter.

    A more productive approach is to narrow your search by visiting your stores and understanding the names, styles, and numbers of the furniture that you wish to consider. By conducting your background research, the retailer will likely consider you a serious customer.

5. How can I receive a quote or proposal from a Carolina retailer?

    Determine the particular item(s) of interest, reference the item by number, picture or sketch, and request price and delivery. Requests can be submitted by e-mail, phone, fax or letter. Usually within a few hours, a quote can be forwarded. If you wish an electronic reply, please provide an address or phone number.

6. What differences exist between the Carolina retailers?

    Primarily, the differences fall into two areas: size and lines carried. The larger retailers typically have more lines, more floor space, more sales staff and designers, and larger overhead. The advantage is one-stop shopping for furniture and accessories. Smaller operations might be more personal and flexible in their customer relations and smaller markups.

    Some lines (ie., Lexington) are carried many retailers. Others such as Sherrill, Century, and Thomasville have more limited distribution. And a few like Stickley and McCleary do not have North Carolina dealers.

    Finally most North Carolina retailers are sincere, principled business people focused on providing value to their customers. Your best interests could be served by requesting references or business credentials. The majority will gladly provide you with bank, Better Business Bureau, or Chamber of Commerce references.

7. Can I receive a phone quote on any furniture lines carried by Carolina retailers?

    For the most part, yes! However a few manufacturers (ie.,Thomasville and Bernhardt) restrict phone sales to previous customers or recent visitors to the particular store.

8. How is an order entered with a Carolina retailer?

    With a bona fide quote, the shopper provide part names and numbers to the retailer. When the order is prepared, a deposit of 30% - 50% is required. This deposit may be provided by check, credit card, or cash. Check with your particular retailer for confirmation.

    The order is processed and entered with the manufacturer who provides a targeted delivery date.

    Limited inventories by most retailers require the furniture be ordered and produced. BE PREPARED TO BE PATIENT AND WAIT!!

    • CASE GOODS typically require 6-10 weeks.
    • UPHOLSTERY might take 10-14 weeks.

    ASK your salesperson how well a particular manufacturer has delivered on time.

9. How will my furniture be delivered?

    Three methods are normally available. First, when the order is ready for shipment, the manufacturer will contact the retailer who in turn notifies the customer. The final payment is due at that time.The customer confirms delivery arrangement including date and place. Shipmentis via home delivery service which consists of specialized trucking companies.This service may include uncrating, touchup and setting up of furniture in the home or office.

    Freight charges are due at time of delivery. On out-of-state shipments, sales taxes are not normally collected. Any use taxes are the responsible of the customer.

    Second, some retailers use their own trucks to deliver in certain states. This might be a safer approach since handling damages are typically reduced.

    Third, the consumer may arrange to pick up the merchandise at the retailer. In this situation as required by law, a sales tax is collected

10. How are problems with shortages or damages handled when they are discovered at time of delivery?

    By some estimates over 97% of all deliveries occur without difficulty. If a problem is discovered, ask your trucker to call the retailer immediately to discuss the situation. Carolina retailers depend on satisfied customers to stay in business. You are an important customer!!

11. Finally, how can I determine the financial soundness of a particular dealer?

    Overall, Carolina discount dealers probably mirror the national statistics for longevity and reliable customer relations. Your pre-purchase investigation should consist of checking references to include Chambers, Better Business Burearus, banks, and previous customers.

SHOP NORTH CAROLINA AND SAVE!!

If you have additional questions, please contact us by email at questions@ncnet.com.

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