Read the selected product's thickness-specific density schedule, then compare the actual finished part with its support, hardware and intended use.
CUZI MDF manufactures and supplies thin, standard and thick MDF from our factory in Shuyang, China. We help you connect the board to the part your workshop needs, from full sheets to cut or machined components. Start with the drawing and the operations you want included; a representative sample helps turn the selected thickness into repeatable supply.
Find the thickness in the correct product range
Our Thin MDF Board range is 2–11 mm. Our Thick MDF Board range is 19–35 mm. Raw MDF covers the wider 2–35 mm capability, including 12–18 mm furniture-panel requirements. Select the named product and its grade, surface and dimensions together.
| Nominal thickness band | Product starting point | Current CUZI MDF density, kg/m³ | Main purchasing question |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–4 mm | Thin MDF Board | 800–810 | Supported part, finished fit and handling |
| 5–8 mm | Thin MDF Board | 780–800 | Back, liner, skin or other drawing-defined thin component |
| 9–11 mm | Thin MDF Board | 760–780 | Actual part section, support, holes and finish |
| 12–18 mm | Raw MDF within its general range | 680–750 | Furniture geometry, hardware and completed construction |
| 19–35 mm | Thick MDF Board | 650–680 | Profile depth, remaining section, support and finished mass |
These are the published density schedules for the identified CUZI MDF products. Other grades and faced constructions use their own product specification. Thickness determines board volume; density supplies the mass-per-volume input. For the order, identify the selected thickness and density target or range with the actual product.
Thin and Thick MDF currently state a nominal thickness tolerance of ±0.1 mm, subject to the confirmed measuring and acceptance method. Record the supplied board or completed part being measured, locations, condition and tolerance with the order. Facing, coating and further machining have their own effect on finished dimensions.
The product names help you find a starting point. Your component design establishes the required thickness and performance. If an inch-based drawing is supplied, record its units and exact converted dimensions through the MDF size and inch-thickness guide.
Match thickness to the part's function
Split a furniture set into its actual parts before choosing one board thickness for the whole order. A back, shelf, routed front and display base can share a finish while requiring different support, section and hardware. A short component schedule gives purchasing and production a clear request.
| Part or task | What thickness needs to achieve | Details to put in the drawing | Representative check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinet and wardrobe backs | Fit the supported frame, groove or rebate | Final thickness, perimeter engagement, fixing and visible face | Back fitted into the complete cabinet |
| Drawer bottoms and liners | Suit the designed support and intended contents | Groove, supported dimensions, finish and connection | Completed drawer and its agreed assessment |
| Cabinet sides, dividers and shelves | Work with connectors, span and assembly | Finished section, supports, holes, edges and use | Assembled cabinet or supported shelf |
| Routed doors and decorative fronts | Retain the required material around profiles and hardware | Front/back machining, hinge locations, finish and completed mass | Finished door with actual fittings |
| Tops, counters and display bases | Provide the section and supported surface the design requires | Span, frame, load, openings, edge and fixing | Full supported component |
| Thin decorative skins or machined infill | Fit the backing or frame and survive the planned processing | Adhesive or mounting, openings, remaining webs and finish | Sample with its intended backing or support |
For supported thin furniture parts, compare Thin MDF, HDF and Hardboard using each product's actual surface, density and finished fit. The furniture-back and drawer-bottom application connects those choices to the complete assembly.
For cabinet fronts, use the door application and identify the supplied and remaining finishing work. For tops and bases, the office furniture application or exhibition display application helps organise support, handling and component requirements.
Establish support and use before choosing a shelf or top
Thickness is one input to a supported component. The clear span, applied load, board properties, support and connections together determine its behaviour. The European Panel Federation's property guide treats bending stiffness and strength as measured properties and connects shelf deflection with load, dimensions and modulus of elasticity.
Supply the following information for a shelf, counter or other horizontal part:
- Actual finished length, width and thickness, including the surface and edges.
- Clear spans and positions of the frame, brackets, rails or other supports.
- Intended contents or loads and how they are distributed in use.
- Connections, fixing positions, openings, rebates and any material removed.
- Environment, cleaning and the relevant moisture or other product requirements.
- The responsible design's required assessment and a representative complete component.
A thicker blank may provide a useful section for a particular design, while added support can change the clear span being assessed. Evaluate the chosen arrangement using the actual material and design requirements. Our MDF strength and screw-holding guide explains the different material and joint questions.
For a purchasing comparison, keep the same finished part and support arrangement. Then record the proposed thickness, board properties, complete mass, machining, hardware and cost. This gives your team a useful comparison of the result it needs to make and deliver.
Check the smallest remaining section after machining
A nominal 25 mm blank can have several local thicknesses after routing, pockets or holes. Identify the deepest features from both faces and whether they overlap in the same location. The relevant remaining section is the material left where the drawing requires it.
The three examples below assume plain rectangular sections and the stated nominal machining depths. Opposing cuts in examples B and C overlap in the same local area. The arithmetic describes geometry; actual allowances, tolerances, processing and the required component performance follow the design and trial.
| Assumed section | Nominal starting thickness | Assumed overlapping cuts | Calculated local material remaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| A: one front pocket | 25 mm | 8 mm from the front | 25 − 8 = 17 mm |
| B: front and rear pockets | 25 mm | 8 mm front + 14 mm rear | 25 − 8 − 14 = 3 mm |
| C: front and rear pockets | 30 mm | 8 mm front + 14 mm rear | 30 − 8 − 14 = 8 mm |
The cross-sections use the same scale for thickness and cut depth. An assumed 60 mm section width and 20 mm pocket width make the positions visible. These example widths and depths illustrate the calculation, with actual tool access, minimum local section, fixing and required performance confirmed for your component.
Include opposing-face holes, grooves, rebates, pockets and edge profiles in the same drawing. Show datum faces, feature depths, critical dimensions, tolerances and the current revision. The finished face or a facing layer may change the datum used to measure a machining depth, so identify its reference explicitly.
Our CNC routing guide and CNC MDF Processing page help define the included work. For an acoustic or decorative pattern, remaining webs, borders and fixing zones belong in the same check. A representative part containing the demanding features helps confirm the actual machining and finish.
Separate MDF core thickness from completed thickness
The board core is one part of a faced or finished component. Record the complete face, reverse, bonding and edge construction when dimensions affect assembly. A groove, hinge or neighbouring panel fits the finished part it receives.
| Supplied construction | Thickness information to record | Finished-part check |
|---|---|---|
| Raw or sanded board | Nominal core thickness, actual supplied condition and agreed tolerance | Board dimensions at the agreed locations |
| Painted or coated component | Core, preparation and actual coating construction | Completed faces, profiles, edges and assembly fit |
| Melamine or another decorative face | Selected core, face/reverse system and completed dimensions | Groove, edge band, connectors and adjoining parts |
| Veneered MDF | Core, selected veneer, supplied sanding, reverse and finish | Actual remaining face and completed panel thickness |
| HPL MDF | Core, selected 0.5–1.2 mm HPL face sheet, reverse and bonding construction | Actual finished thickness, edge and hardware interfaces |
For HPL MDF, specify the selected face and reverse with the core and final dimensional requirement. For Veneered MDF, veneer thickness before pressing and the supplied face after sanding are separate records. For Melamine MDF, identify both faces and the actual finished supply.
If a cabinet's external dimensions stay fixed, a change in finished side thickness also changes its internal dimensions. Update the component drawing, connector coordinates and neighbouring parts together. A representative assembly checks the result with the actual construction and tolerances.
For a thickness measurement used in a dispute or repeat-order check, keep the agreed method, panel condition, locations and identified sample with the result. The surface finishing guide connects layer construction and process sequence with the final dimensions.
Calculate weight with the selected density band
Nominal bare-board mass equals length × width × thickness in metres × density in kg/m³. Use the density for the selected product and thickness band. The table below calculates bare 1220 × 2440 mm sheets from the published CUZI MDF ranges; it is a planning calculation using nominal dimensions.
| Nominal thickness | Catalogue density, kg/m³ | Nominal bare volume, m³ | Calculated bare mass, kg |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mm | 800–810 | 0.0089304 | 7.14–7.23 |
| 6 mm | 780–800 | 0.0178608 | 13.93–14.29 |
| 9 mm | 760–780 | 0.0267912 | 20.36–20.90 |
| 12 mm | 680–750 | 0.0357216 | 24.29–26.79 |
| 18 mm | 680–750 | 0.0535824 | 36.44–40.19 |
| 25 mm | 650–680 | 0.0744200 | 48.37–50.61 |
| 35 mm | 650–680 | 0.1041880 | 67.72–70.85 |
For equal sheet sizes at the same assumed density of 720 kg/m³, 12 mm gives 25.72 kg and 18 mm gives 38.58 kg. The nominal volume and calculated mass increase by a factor of 1.5. That factor describes this mass calculation; the complete component assessment establishes the load and connection requirements.
For faced, coated or machined goods, use the actual completed mass or a calculation covering all layers and removed material. Add fittings when checking a finished door. Distinguish product net mass, packaging mass and gross cargo mass when planning shipment or unloading.
Our MDF density guide explains nominal and measured inputs. The MDF versus HDF comparison shows why density and thickness need the actual product identity. If lower mass is part of the design goal, compare Lightweight MDF with its specific properties, support and complete-part trial.
The European Panel Federation's handling guide describes protected handling and flat supported storage. Plan the equipment and handling method around actual panel and bundle dimensions and masses. Thin sheets need support through transfer; thick boards need their completed weight included in the plan.
Check hardware fit and the complete assembly
Hardware drawings and instructions apply to the actual fitting and finished part. A thickness change can alter cup or connector clearance, insertion depth, remaining material, completed door weight and the positions of adjoining components. Agree these details before repeating a trial part.
| Interface | Information to keep with thickness | Check on the finished component |
|---|---|---|
| Hinges | Cup and fixing geometry, positions, finished door dimensions and mass | Fit, movement, alignment and applicable hardware limits |
| Connectors and inserts | Hole diameter/depth, datum, edge distances and actual connector | Joint fit, assembly sequence and required connection assessment |
| Back or drawer-bottom grooves | Actual finished panel thickness, groove dimensions and engagement | Full supported perimeter, fixing and movement allowances |
| Shelf supports | Contact detail, span, positions, expected contents and board properties | Complete supported shelf and the design's required assessment |
| Opposing holes or pockets | Depths from each datum and minimum local remaining section | Actual section, hardware access and critical dimensions |
The European Panel Federation's screw guide relates screw preparation and position to board thickness and the actual screw. Use current hardware guidance and representative joint checks for your component. Our drilling and hardware guide keeps the drawing, part code and hole coordinates together.
For a thin supported back or drawer bottom, the assembly determines support and fixing. For a thick routed door, the completed part determines the hardware weight requirement. Keep the actual test or first-assembly result with its material, drawing and fittings so the purchasing record describes the component being repeated.
Treat bending, moisture and special surfaces as product requirements
A thin board and a flexible product have different purchasing descriptions. Our Flexible MDF is whole-sheet 3–6 mm MDF for longitudinal bending. Its plain sheet bends directly, with the suitable radius confirmed using the selected thickness, direction, former or frame, fastening and finish on a representative sample.
Use the Flexible MDF design guide when the order includes curved parts. Supply the finished radius, curve direction, dimensions, support and surface construction. Thin MDF's nominal thickness is one input; the actual bending product and sample establish the suitable construction.
For protected interiors with a humidity or incidental-moisture concern, compare Moisture Resistant MDF or High Moisture Resistant MDF at the required thickness. Faces, edges, holes, joints, ventilation and cleaning complete the component specification. The moisture grade uses its own product properties and applicable documents.
For fire-specified, structural or acoustic applications, identify the complete construction, use and relevant requirements with the responsible design. Thickness, density and a decorative surface each describe their own feature. Applicable product or assembly files establish the stated performance. Our Fire Rated MDF checklist, US MDF documents and EU purchasing guide help organise the actual request.
Match sheet quantity, pricing and the work included
Choose full sheets when your workshop handles the layout and processing. Choose Cut-to-Size MDF or CNC parts when agreed operations belong in the factory supply. Your quote identifies the dimensions, quantity units and work included for each specification.
FOB China price: US$190–350/m³ for Thin MDF Board and US$158–219/m³ for Thick MDF Board. The selected thickness, format, density, grade, surface, quantity, processing, packing and delivery terms establish the actual quotation. A price per m³ needs the board volume to become a nominal sheet amount.
The table below converts these FOB China prices into amounts per sheet. These figures show the pricing-unit conversion for bare board geometry; they are separate from an order quotation and the additional work or charges in a complete component supply.
| Nominal bare sheet | Nominal volume, m³ | FOB China price, US$/m³ | Calculated amount per sheet, US$ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thin MDF: 1220 × 2440 × 3 mm | 0.0089304 | 190–350 | 1.70–3.13 |
| Thick MDF: 1220 × 2440 × 25 mm | 0.0744200 | 158–219 | 11.76–16.30 |
For a complete comparison, include:
- The named board, core grade, thickness, density, dimensions and supplied surface.
- Quantity in sheets, m³ or finished pieces, with the pricing basis clearly recorded.
- Cutting layout, grain or face direction, trim, kerf and the required accepted part count.
- Machining, facing, coating, edges and operations included before delivery.
- Remaining workshop work, part or bundle protection and receiving equipment.
- FOB or CIF named place, included transport charges and any destination costs added once.
For an assumed 100 bare sheets, nominal product volume is 0.89304 m³ at 3 mm or 7.442 m³ at 25 mm. Actual packing dimensions and shipment weights receive their own records. A given bundle height or container also depends on actual thickness, density, product, packing and transport limits.
The board size and production guide develops sheet layout and cutting yield. The quotation comparison guide and shipment planning guide help align the final cost and delivery scope.
Check the first component before repeating the order
A board sample helps confirm the supplied material and surface. A representative finished component checks the operations, remaining section, interfaces and assembly the order will repeat. Include the demanding feature and the intended finish in the trial.
- Identify the product, core grade, thickness, density specification and sample or batch.
- Retain the current part drawing, units, datum, depths, tolerances and revision.
- Measure the supplied board and completed component at the agreed locations and condition.
- Check the deepest profiles, opposing cuts, small holes, edges and remaining material.
- Apply the actual finish and assemble the selected fittings with their supports.
- Record dimensions, appearance, fit and the design's required performance checks.
- Keep the selected sample, first component and order details for receiving and repeat supply.
Our sample approval guide connects raw samples, finish references and first assemblies. We support third-party inspection against the agreed order and inspection plan. For a repeat order, confirm changes in material, thickness, drawings, finish, quantity and destination together.
When parts arrive, check their identification, count, visible condition and agreed dimensions against the order. Store panels with flat support and appropriate protection for their faces, edges and mass. The moisture and conditioning guide helps prepare the material for the actual workshop environment.
Send the thickness requirement with the component
Tell our factory what you want to make and the stage you want delivered. If the thickness is still being selected, supply the actual part drawing, support and intended use. We can help prepare a sample and a quotation around the proposed product and operations.
- Named product or thickness alternatives, application and intended environment.
- Nominal core thickness, required density or properties, and actual core grade.
- Sheet format or finished part dimensions, quantities and units.
- Datum faces, profile and pocket depths, opposing machining and minimum local section.
- Hardware, grooves, connections, support positions and complete-part requirements.
- Face, reverse, coating or decorative reference, edges and finished thickness.
- Operations included in the supply and the remaining workshop work.
- Sample or first-part request, inspection and destination documents.
- Packaging, unloading equipment, destination, requested timing and FOB Qingdao or FOB Lianyungang.
Our input formats include 1220 × 2440, 2100 × 2800, 1830 × 3660, 1830 × 2440, 2440 × 3660 and 1830 × 4200 mm. Confirm the selected product and format with the order. Finished part dimensions follow the agreed cutting or machining files. Normal MOQ is 1 × 20'GP per specification, with normal production of 3–10 days after technical and commercial confirmation; the actual schedule includes the ordered processing.
All product samples can be requested free of charge and are generally in stock. You pay the courier cost, which can be credited against the formal order amount. We confirm the selected sample, any custom preparation, dispatch and estimated transit time before sending. We reply to inquiries within 12 hours.
Your written quote includes specification, quantity, price and currency, packaging, FOB Qingdao or FOB Lianyungang, production lead time, T/T or L/C payment conditions and validity. Our usual export ports are Lianyungang and Qingdao. Furniture manufacturers can include dimensions and finish references; distributors can include bulk quantities, repeat specifications and stock requirements.
Request a thin or thick MDF quotation, request free thickness samples or request product documents. For a drawing-based choice, discuss your component with us.
Thin and thick MDF buying questions
What counts as thin or thick MDF at CUZI MDF?
Our Thin MDF Board range is 2–11 mm and our Thick MDF Board range is 19–35 mm. Raw MDF covers 2–35 mm, including 12–18 mm furniture panels. Choose the actual product, grade, density, surface and completed component requirements with the thickness.
Which thickness should I choose for a furniture back or drawer bottom?
Use the designed groove or frame, support, final panel thickness, intended use and fixing. Thin MDF, HDF and Hardboard are product options to compare for supported parts. A representative complete back or drawer checks the finished fit and required performance.
Is thicker MDF always the right choice for a shelf or top?
Choose the section together with clear span, supports, expected load, material properties, openings and connections. The actual design and complete component assessment establish the suitable arrangement. Include finished mass, handling and cost when comparing thickness alternatives.
How do I choose thickness for deep routing?
Show the deepest cuts from each datum, including opposing-face holes or pockets and their overlap. Calculate the local material remaining, then agree machining, tolerances and the required minimum section with the design. Check the demanding features on a representative finished part.
Can I use any thin MDF for a curved panel?
Specify the actual bending product and construction. Our Flexible MDF uses whole 3–6 mm sheets for longitudinal bending. The suitable radius follows the selected thickness, direction, support, fastening and finish, confirmed on the representative sample.
Does an 18 mm core mean an 18 mm finished panel?
Record the core and the complete face/reverse construction separately. Facing, bonding, coating, sanding and machining can affect the final dimensions. Confirm the supplied finished thickness and tolerances for the actual groove, hardware and assembly interfaces.
How can I compare sheet weight or a price per m³?
Calculate nominal bare volume from dimensions in metres. Multiply by the selected density for nominal mass or by the quoted price per m³ for its nominal sheet amount. Keep completed layers, machining, packing and the included commercial scope in their own calculation or actual record.
What thickness tolerance and documents should I request?
Thin and Thick MDF state nominal ±0.1 mm, subject to the confirmed measuring and acceptance method. Identify the exact board or completed construction, condition and measuring locations. Provide the destination, emission or other performance requirement so the applicable product files can be matched to the order.
How do I arrange samples and a factory quotation?
Send thickness alternatives, board or part sizes, drawings, quantity and destination. We reply within 12 hours. Samples are free, with buyer-paid courier costs creditable against the formal order amount, and we confirm preparation and timing with your request. The quotation records the agreed product, processing and commercial details.