What types of spec home projects make window import from Europe worth it?
The higher the project value, the greater the ROI – that’s why luxury homes and subdivisions are the most profitable for importing.
For luxury homes, it makes more sense because:
With larger orders, logistics make up a smaller percentage of the total budget.
Luxury homes with premium European aluminum increase property value, so you can sell at a higher price.
Importing can be worth it even for a single spec home project (with an order value of $30k).
Affordable or mid-range spec homes can also be profitable, though margins may be lower. It’s especially attractive for production builders, since you can achieve solid, repeatable margins without rising logistics costs.
The higher the project value, the greater the ROI
What project budget makes importing windows from Europe for spec homes financially viable?
To make import financially worth it, your window order should be at least around $30,000.
If your project’s budget is lower, there’s a higher risk that shipping and duty costs will eat up the margin you’d gain from importing.
When it comes to import, your budget needs to cover not just the products, but logistics as well.
It’s worth filling a full container to avoid paying for empty space. You can do this by combining shipments for multiple projects or partnering with someone else on one delivery.
During a video call with debesto, our business consultant will calculate a live total estimate (products + shipping + duty).
If your project’s budget is lower than $30K, shipping and duty costs may eat up your margin
Based on our clients’ experience, European windows can make your property more attractive and help you save up to 50% compared to American premium products.
You sell faster and with higher margins.
However, import isn’t the right option for everyone or every situation.
That’s why, during a free consultation, debesto helps you check whether importing makes sense for your project.
Patrick Łakucewicz, Key Account Manager at debesto.com
Plan your European window import ahead of time
How far in advance should you plan your window import from Europe? The earlier you start, the smoother the process.
We recommend planning at least 12 weeks ahead of installation, starting from the moment your window specs are finalized.
That timeline includes:
Production – typically takes 3 to 7 weeks, depending on material and window type
Shipping – delivery to the East Coast takes around 5 weeks; longer for the West
Please note: once the order is shipped, we can’t fully control ocean transport. Things like port congestion or weather may cause delays, even with a solid shipping plan in place.
Before production starts, your window schedule must be reviewed and translated into a technical specification. How long that takes depends on how complete your schedule is and how complex the project is.
The earlier you start, the smoother the process. Order 12 weeks before installation
Is a crew specialized in European window installation a must-have?
If you already have a crew experienced with European windows, importing won’t require extra effort from you.
If you don’t, but you’re willing to get involved, there are a few options:
Look for an experienced crew in your area.
If you can’t find one, debesto can share contacts from our network of clients in New York and nearby. They can either train your crew or handle the installation themselves.
Your local crew installs the windows the European way
We’ll support them with manuals, videos, and guidance from our technician. You can also order a test window like one of our clients from Carolina, or visit one of our partner job sites with your crew lead.
Order European windows with a nailing fin
We don’t recommend it: it’s less cost-effective and the profile options are very limited.
If none of the above works for you, then importing might not be the right choice.
Window import needs more than a supplier: You need a process
Importing from Europe means working remotely and your partner needs to manage the full process, not just deliver windows.
Why “just a supplier” isn’t enough
There are over 2,000 window manufacturers in Poland alone. Verifying them from a distance is a tough job, and the time zone difference adds complexity.
At debesto we work only with vetted, proven suppliers, so you don’t waste time chasing quotes or dealing with unknowns.
The process is remote, so the system matters
From refining your window schedule to final delivery, every step happens remotely. Without a structured system, you’ll spend days chasing answers and reworking specs.
At debesto, we’ve built that system over 10+ years of working with U.S. builders.
We handle the whole thing online, on your time:
spec review
quotes and approvals
live consultation via video (we handle your questions in real time).
You’ll still need to invest some time, but much less, because everything’s coordinated in one place.
When the initial conversations with debesto began, the level of comfort grew immensely and led me to make my decision and go with them.
I was able to have my questions and concerns resolved in a timely manner and share them with my team. That made the process easier and more streamlined.
What type of projects benefit most from European window import?
High-end spec homes and subdivisions see the best ROI.
What’s the minimum budget for importing to make sense?
Around $30,000 per order. Below that, shipping and duty may eat your margin.
How far in advance should I place my order?
At least 12 weeks before installation. That includes: 3–7 weeks for production and ~5 weeks for ocean shipping (East Coast). Delays can happen – port congestion, weather, etc. The earlier you plan, the better.
Do I need a specialized crew to install European windows?
Yes – or at least one that’s trained.
Why is choosing the right partner critical?
Because import is a remote process, and not every supplier can manage it well. You need: A vetted supplier network. Clear system for specs, logistics, and communication. One point of contact who owns the full process, not just delivery.
Co-owner of debesto.com. For over 10 years I’ve been helping builders from the U.S. and Europe find clear answers to their key questions about importing windows from Poland. I focus on solving the real problems American builders face – based on what I’ve seen myself on U.S. job sites, not just from behind a desk.
Everything you need to know about custom windows from Europe: prices, designs, and options. Read our guide and stay ahead of the competition with modern U.S. home projects.
At debesto.com, we are experts in providing customized window solutions, including patio doors, blinds, entry, and garage doors, tailored to building professionals: developers, general contractors, architects, and construction project managers.
With over a decade of expertise in European windows, we specialize in assisting construction companies to import windows efficiently and profitably.
With debesto, you gain comprehensive, consultative partnerships designed to enhance your project’s success and minimize your business risk. Our customers appreciate most:
The total time from manufacture to delivery of the windows to the US port is on average 7-10 weeks depending on the destination port and delivery method that you can choose from debesto delivery price list.
Add to this the production time of the windows (from 2 to 8 weeks).
The maximum expected production time can be found on the pro forma invoice. We deliver 97% of all orders shipped worldwide according to the deadline we declare on the pro forma invoice. If we are late, we give you a 2% discount.
Do the products come with an international warranty?
Yes, products are covered by the debesto worldwide warranty, provided they are installed according to the professional standards and applicable regulations in the country of installation.
Are the windows insured during shipment?
Yes, all products are fully insured during transportation, covering the entire value of the products.
