Buying guides
China import vs EU delivery for gym equipment
Direct China import can look cheaper on paper but adds freight, import risk and slow spare parts. An EU manufacturer (Fitland in Seville) plus a local reseller shortens logistics and service. Decide on total cost and downtime risk.
Why is the Alibaba price incomplete?
EXW/FOB omits ocean freight, insurance, import, last-mile, install and parts. Those lines often erase the headline “saving” when something breaks.
Downtime is a cost: weeks without a spare part empty the floor.
Ergonomics may not match European members — trial reduces risk.
What does EU delivery usually add?
Shorter European logistics, clearer paperwork, manufacturer support and a local partner for planning, install and service. Fitland Baltic also offers a live showroom under real load.
Our advice comes from gym owners who already paid twice for a “cheap” import.
Always compare the same package: freight, warranty, service and lead time.
How to compare quotes fairly?
Table equipment + delivery + install + warranty + spare-part lead time + expected service. Only then is “cheaper” meaningful. Ask us for the same package as a baseline.
Try machines in the showroom when you can — feel does not fit in a PDF.