How much FF&E contingency is reasonable?

Often 10–15% depending on custom work and shipping complexity. Ask your designer for a project-specific range.

What blows FF&E budgets?

Freight, crating, discontinued items, rush fees, and sales tax forgotten in concept pricing.

Usually the client holds it and approves draws. Transparency beats opaque markups.

July 27, 2026 · Hiring Guides · 1 min read

Concept boards ignore freight. A real plan holds an FF&E contingency for the boring costs that still show up on invoices.

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How much FF&E contingency is reasonable?: Often 10–15% depending on custom work and shipping complexity. Ask your designer for a project-specific range.
What blows FF&E budgets?: Freight, crating, discontinued items, rush fees, and sales tax forgotten in concept pricing.
Should contingency sit with the designer?: Usually the client holds it and approves draws. Transparency beats opaque markups.