Back to the drawing board
Did my due diligence with this furniture company, as were no product reviews on their website & similarly, checked Trustpilot - however they had no presence. Assumed naturally that they were a newer company, likely trading abroad, so proceeded to engage with customer service about the item of interest; which response was prompt, clear and friendly & equally, corresponded with the details on their website.
Placed an order for a feature sofa I’d been hunting down, with desired specifications. Aware that delivery would take some time as was custom and coming from china - didn’t bother me.
Now, a week following order, I get an email notification (which I appreciate) informing me that due to freight cost & logistics, I’d basically be required to pay an additional amount, comparable to what I purchased the sofa for - so double the cost. For me that’s incredulously ridiculous & unrealistic. As, 25% of the value, perhaps. BUT a 100%?! Absolutely not. Immediately asked for a refund & awaiting to hear back. I don’t know if this experience mirrors previous buyers but thought to leave a review for future shoppers. Hopefully, this is an exception perhaps influenced by geopolitical straits.