When you work with an FF&E vendor, one of the decisions they will make along the way is whether to send your items flat packed or fully assembled. This is usually something that is decided during the shop drawing process, or further down the line once production prototypes have been built.

While flat pack furniture offers lower shipping costs, assembled furniture reduces the labor required for on-site installation. This article explores the benefits and trade-offs of each option, shedding light on the factors we consider on this topic when we engineer FF&E.

The Cost Factor: Flat Pack's Shipping Advantage

Flat pack furniture has gained popularity due to its cost-effective shipping. By disassembling items into compact, easily stackable parts, manufacturers can minimize shipping volumes and pass on the savings to customers. This can be especially advantageous for businesses looking to furnish larger spaces or order in bulk.

1. Lower Shipping Costs: The most obvious advantage of flat pack furniture is the reduction in shipping expenses. When shipping costs are a significant concern, flat pack furniture can be a budget-conscious choice.
2. Eco-Friendly Shipping: Smaller shipping volumes mean reduced fuel consumption and a smaller carbon footprint, aligning with sustainability goals.
3. Less Risk of Damage: Compact packaging reduces the risk of damage during transit.

The Time-Saver: Assembled Furniture's Installation Efficiency

On the flip side, assembled furniture offers the advantage of less installation labor, which can be particularly valuable for businesses with tight schedules or limited labor resources.

1. Quick Set-Up: Assembled furniture can be installed more rapidly, saving valuable time and allowing your spaces to become operational sooner.
2. Reduced Labor Costs: While assembled furniture may come with a higher initial price tag, you'll save on labor costs since it typically requires fewer on-site hours.
3. Easier Installation: Many items will be able to be unpacked and set in place by less skilled labor, rather than assembled by carpenters or other more specific trades.

Finding the Right Balance

The choice between flat pack and assembled furniture ultimately depends on your specific project, the FF&E specifications, and your plans for installation. We consider the following factors:

1. Budget: To keep shipping costs in line, flat pack may be the way to go for certain items. However, if labor costs and installation time are more significant considerations, assembled furniture might be worth the investment.
2. Space: Consider the available space for assembly and storage. Flat pack items are more compact but will require a staging area for assembly.
3. Assembly Skill: Assess the expertise of your in-house team or your willingness to hire professionals for assembly. Complex flat pack furniture will require skilled labor for proper installation. L&S offers installation services for anything we manufacture, and can handle this part for you.
4. Timeline: Evaluating your project timeline. If the schedule is tight and installation needs to happen fast, assembled furniture's quicker installation may be essential.

In conclusion, the choice between flat pack and assembled furniture is a balancing act between shipping costs and installation labor. By carefully considering your budget, available space, timeline, specifications, and labor resources, we can make an informed decision that suits your project needs. Whether you prioritize cost savings or efficiency, both options have their unique advantages, and Lang & Schwander is here to advise you on how to strike the balance for your next hotel project.