Winter is when many Bhutanese homes get a refresh: a new kettle, warmer bedding, storage boxes or a better frying pan. Shops in India, Thailand and China often have more choice than what you find locally, and with DrukBees you can order from them without leaving Bhutan. Home and kitchen items need a little more care than clothes, though. Here are seven tips to help you choose well and avoid surprises.
1. Check the voltage before you order appliances
Bhutan uses about 230V, similar to India, so most Indian appliances work as they are. Thailand and China mostly use 220V. Always read the product listing for the voltage and wattage. Avoid items marked 110V or “US version” unless you plan to use a converter.
2. Look at the plug type
Plug shapes differ from country to country. Before you order, compare the plug in the product photos with your sockets at home. If they don’t match, plan to buy an adapter, or ask about it when you request your quote.
3. Think about weight and size
Shipping from Thailand costs BTN 650/kg and from China BTN 990/kg, and bulky items can cost more than their weight alone suggests. A large pot set or a big storage rack can cost more to ship than the item itself. Light, compact things like kitchen tools, small containers, curtains or cushion covers are often the best value. Read our guide on how weight and size affect your shipping cost before you order big items.
4. Choose India for heavy or urgent items
Orders from India arrive in about 7 days, from Thailand in about 10 days and from China in about 21 days. For heavier things, or anything you need soon, an Indian store is often the practical choice. Thailand and China work well for unique decor, gadgets and small kitchen tools when you can wait a little longer.
5. Measure your space first
Shelves, racks, rugs and curtains that are too big or too small are a common disappointment. Measure your space and compare it with the product dimensions in the listing. Listings sometimes use centimetres and sometimes inches. When you send the link, add the exact size and colour you want so we order the right variant.
6. Watch out for restricted items
Some household products cannot travel by air cargo. These include aerosol sprays, some cleaning chemicals and items with lithium batteries. Check our air cargo packing guide before you order from Thailand or China, and ask us if you are not sure.
7. Read reviews and look for real photos
For cookware and appliances, reviews tell you more than the product photos do. Look for photos from buyers, comments about build quality, and how the item was packed. Glass and ceramic items are fragile, so choose sellers whose reviews say their packing is good.
Ready to upgrade your home?
Find the item you like, copy the link and request a quote through order.drukbees.com. You can track your orders and manage your account at my.drukbees.com. Questions? Call us at 330299 or email info@drukbees.com.