When homeowners decide to renovate their kitchen or bathroom, the cost of cabinetry often takes up a significant portion of the budget—sometimes up to 40% of the total renovation expense. That’s why buying from cabinet wholesalers has become a smart option for those who want high-quality cabinets at a fraction of retail prices.
However, before stepping into the wholesale market, it’s essential to understand the terms and concepts used in the industry. This glossary will help you communicate effectively with suppliers, make informed decisions, and get the best value for your investment.
1. Cabinet Wholesalers
Definition: Businesses that sell cabinets in bulk, often directly from the manufacturer or distributor, to contractors, retailers, or even homeowners at lower prices than retail.
Why It Matters: Knowing what cabinet wholesalers do helps you understand why their prices are more competitive—they skip multiple retail markups. Homeowners who buy wholesale can save between 20–50% compared to traditional store prices.
2. RTA Cabinets
Definition: “Ready-to-Assemble” cabinets that are shipped in flat packs and require assembly upon delivery.
Why It Matters: RTA cabinets are a popular choice from wholesalers because they’re easier to ship, more affordable, and can be assembled in a few hours with basic tools. Many homeowners save hundreds on delivery and labor costs by choosing RTA options.
3. Shaker Style
Definition: A timeless cabinet design featuring a flat center panel with simple, clean lines.
Why It Matters: Shaker cabinets are one of the top sellers among cabinet wholesalers due to their versatility—they fit both modern and traditional kitchens. They also have high resale appeal if you plan to sell your home later.
4. Face Frame vs. Frameless
Definition:
- Face Frame Cabinets have a frame around the front edges for added strength and a more traditional appearance.
- Frameless Cabinets (Euro-style) have no frame, offering a sleek, modern look and more storage space.
Why It Matters: Understanding the difference helps you choose the style that matches your kitchen design and functionality goals.
5. Soft-Close Hinges
Definition: Cabinet hinges designed to prevent doors from slamming shut, closing gently and quietly.
Why It Matters: Many wholesale cabinets now come with soft-close features as a standard option, adding value and convenience without significantly increasing the price.
6. Stock, Semi-Custom, and Custom Cabinets
Definition:
- Stock: Pre-made, mass-produced cabinets with limited sizes and styles.
- Semi-Custom: Pre-made but with some customization in size, color, or features.
- Custom: Fully tailored to your exact specifications.
Why It Matters: Cabinet wholesalers typically sell stock and semi-custom options, which offer a balance between cost and personalization.
7. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
Definition: An engineered wood product made from wood fibers and resin.
Why It Matters: MDF is often used in cabinet doors for a smooth, paint-ready surface. It’s cheaper than solid wood but still durable when used in the right applications.
8. Plywood Construction
Definition: Cabinets built with layers of wood veneer glued together for strength and durability.
Why It Matters: Many homeowners prefer plywood over particleboard because it resists warping and moisture damage—especially important in kitchens and bathrooms.
9. Overlay
Definition: The amount of cabinet door that covers the cabinet frame.
Why It Matters: Full-overlay doors offer a modern, seamless look, while partial-overlay doors create a more traditional appearance. Knowing the overlay style will help you match your design preference.
10. Lead Time
Definition: The amount of time from placing your order to receiving your cabinets.
Why It Matters: Wholesale cabinet lead times can vary from 1 week for stock cabinets to 6–8 weeks for semi-custom designs. Planning ahead prevents project delays.
11. Finish
Definition: The final surface treatment applied to cabinets, such as paint, stain, or laminate.
Why It Matters: Cabinet wholesalers often offer a variety of finishes to match your home style. Choosing the right finish affects both the look and longevity of your cabinets.
12. Grain Matching
Definition: Aligning the wood grain pattern across cabinet doors and drawers for a continuous, high-end look.
Why It Matters: This detail is often overlooked, but it adds sophistication to your cabinetry and may be available at wholesale prices that make it more affordable.
Tips for Buying from Cabinet Wholesalers
- Inspect Quality: Look for durable materials like plywood and solid wood.
- Ask for Samples: Many wholesalers offer door samples so you can check finish and quality before committing.
- Check Warranties: Reliable wholesalers back their products with warranties ranging from 1 year to lifetime coverage.
- Compare Prices: Even within wholesale markets, prices can vary by as much as 25%.
Final Thoughts
Buying from cabinet wholesalers can be a game-changer for homeowners who want stylish, high-quality cabinets without breaking the bank. By understanding these key industry terms, you’ll be more confident in your purchase decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and end up with cabinetry that enhances your home’s beauty and value for years to come.
Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or just replacing a few cabinets, knowledge is your best bargaining tool. The more you understand the wholesale process, the better equipped you are to get the perfect cabinets at the perfect price.