How RIBA Furniture Took the Leap into Importing with Cargoplot

Introducing RIBA Furniture

Driven by a deep passion for wood, RIBA Furniture creates robust and unique pieces that add character to any interior. Led by co-owner Bas van Houten, the company imports carefully selected materials, such as solid Suar and teak wood slabs, directly from Indonesia. These materials and unique furniture pieces are then supplied to furniture makers and other interior design experts.

Although the importing is done under the RIBA Furniture name, the company is located in Cruquius, on the premises of their other business: Rikoka Meubelen. From this base, natural treasures are transformed into custom-made live-edge tables, TV units, and more. The philosophy is clear: no mass production, but authentic craftsmanship and furniture with a unique, natural form.

The Challenge: Ambition Hindered by Complexity

Bas and his partner had long wanted to import their unique furniture directly from Indonesia themselves. This would give them complete control over their collection and quality, but the world of international logistics felt like an impenetrable wall.

"We've wanted to do this for a very long time," Bas explains, "but it just never happened. Logistics was the big unknown. We simply didn't have the knowledge of how it all worked, from the supplier all the way to customs."

The core challenge wasn't optimizing an existing process, but overcoming the barrier to even getting started. The fear of unexpected costs, complex paperwork, and communication issues with foreign suppliers meant the plans were put on the back burner for a while. The very thought was overwhelming.

If I had to arrange everything myself, I wouldn't even want to start. I just know it. I don't have the expertise down to the last detail.
– Bas van Houten, Co-owner of Riba Furniture

The Solution: A Partner Who Unburdens and Thinks Ahead

While searching for a solution, Bas found Cargoplot online. The feeling was right from the very first contact. It was immediately clear that Cargoplot wasn't just a service platform, but a partner with deep industry knowledge.

"The expertise was there right away," says Bas. "That gave us confidence. We went to Indonesia, found our supplier, and told Cargoplot: 'This is the one.' They took care of pretty much everything else. And suddenly, the container is at your doorstep."

Cargoplot's solution was built on three pillars:

1. Personalized Guidance: Instead of being just another number, Bas experienced a proactive partnership. "If they had questions, they called me. It wasn't like everything had to come from my end. They were actively on top of it, and we really appreciated that."
2. Accessible Expertise: All questions, big or small, were answered quickly and clearly. "They always picked up the phone. They always took the time for us."
3. A Clear and Simple Platform: The Cargoplot platform offered a clear overview of all steps, documents, and the shipment's status. This eliminated uncertainty and provided a sense of control, without the operational burden.

The Result: From Idea to LCL, to Three Containers, and Peace of Mind

The partnership with Cargoplot has not only made RIBA Furniture's import ambition possible but also successful. The company has now received its third container, and the path to further growth is wide open.

The most important results:

• A time saving of ~5 hours per week: Bas estimates that without Cargoplot, he would spend at least five hours a week making calls, submitting paperwork, and filling out forms. "I can now spend that time much better on other things."
• Complete peace of mind: The process runs so smoothly that there has never been any doubt. "I've had seriously zero frustrations. We also never once felt the need to look for another freight forwarder."
• Focus on core activities: By completely outsourcing their logistics, RIBA Furniture can concentrate on what they do best: selecting, finishing, and selling unique furniture to their business clients.
• A true ambassador: The positive experience is so convincing that Bas actively recommends Cargoplot. "I think by now, four or five other people who have their own businesses are also importing through you guys, thanks to our recommendation. And they are all really satisfied too."

For RIBA Furniture, Cargoplot is more than a supplier; it's an essential partnership that enables their growth.

It’s just easy. It’s genuinely safe. And that’s the ultimate goal. It’s a real collaboration, a true partnership. That’s how it should be.
– Bas van Houten, Co-owner of Riba Furniture