Compliance e Gestão de Risco

The Importance of Adapting the Instructions Manual for the International Market

Understand the importance of adapting the manuals to the USA and how this may impact your international operation.
Published by
AdvizeOne
Published in
July 1, 2025

For Brazilian furniture manufacturers and importers, the adaptation of the installation manual for the United States market goes beyond translation. A clear manual, which respects local regulations and facilitates the assembly process, is essential to reduce returns, complaints, and technical support costs.

1. Furniture Installation Regulations and Safety

In the U.S., furniture assembly must follow safety standards established by bodies such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and shopkeeper liability guidelines. Incomplete or misplaced instructions may result in domestic accidents, recalls, or litigation. The manual should list necessary tools, include standardized visual warnings and guidance on a flat surface, attachment to walls (when applicable), and use of personal protective equipment.

2. Language and Units of Measurement for Furniture

When adapting the manual, use common technical terms in the US (for example, “screwdriver” instead of “screwdriver”) and convert measurements for the imperial system (inches instead of centimeters, feet instead of meters). Explain each step in short, direct sentences using an active voice. References such as “side A” and “side B” must match the illustrated pieces, avoiding ambiguities.


3. Assembly Diagrams and Sequence

The manual design should prioritize “exploded view” style diagrams, clearly indicating the sequence of steps. Use contrasting colors to highlight bolts, nuts and fittings, and large step numbers. Include arrows for mounting direction and alignment notes. QR codes can direct you to quick assembly videos, supplementing the printed manual.


4. Identification and Labeling of Parts

For the user to easily find each component, it is essential that the parts are identified in a clear and standardized way. Each item in the kit must receive an alphanumeric code consistent with the illustrations in the manual, and may have adhesive labels or numbered cardboard molds. This practice speeds up the separation of parts before assembly, reduces mounting errors and makes the process more intuitive, especially for those who are not used to assembling furniture.


5. Practical Assembly Tests Practical Assembly Tests

Before standardizing the material, conduct assembly tests with American users who are inexperienced in assembling furniture. Observe where questions or flaws arise and review the manual to eliminate points of confusion. This step allows you to adjust the order of the steps and improve the clarity of the instructions.


6. Advantages of a Well-Adapted Manual

A well-located and illustrated installation manual offers direct benefits: reduced returns due to incorrect assembly, lower volume of support calls, positive brand reputation, and increased consumer confidence. Customers who assemble furniture without difficulty tend to evaluate the product and the brand better.

AdvizeOne offers comprehensive consulting for the adaptation, translation, and validation of furniture manuals in the USA, including the evaluation of ANSI standards and usability tests. We guarantee the integration of the printed manual with the packaging and fulfillment process, ensuring that each assembly kit reaches the end customer with precise instructions and organized materials. Schedule a meeting with our experts and guarantee installation manuals ready to serve the American market with excellence and safety.

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