Recent Shipment Delays (And What We’re Doing About It)

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If you’re currently waiting for your order, you may notice that delivery times are longer than usual, especially for shipments entering the United States. We want to be transparent about what’s happening behind the scenes and explain why this is affecting your delivery.

What’s Causing the Delays?

Right now, two major global developments are impacting shipping times across the entire logistics industry:

1. Increased U.S. Customs Inspections

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has recently introduced a new enforcement initiative called Operation 5H.

Under this program, shipments (especially electronics and hardware from China) are undergoing much stricter documentation checks than usual. Instead of random inspections, many packages now require a full paperwork audit before they can be cleared.

This has led to congestion at major entry points, adding several extra days to the customs clearance process for both air and sea shipments.

2. Global Air Freight Congestion

At the same time, disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz have impacted a significant portion of global shipping.

With maritime routes affected, many companies have shifted their cargo from sea to air transport. This sudden surge in demand has overwhelmed global air freight capacity, causing: crowded airports, limited cargo space, and rerouted and delayed flights

Even express shipments are being impacted as a result.

What We’re Doing

We’re actively working with our logistics partners every day to minimize delays wherever possible.

  • Ensuring all shipments fully comply with the new Operation 5H requirements
  • Double-checking documentation to avoid unnecessary holdups
  • Monitoring your shipment closely as it moves through the system

Your order is on its way and fully compliant. It’s simply waiting its turn in the current backlog.

Thank You for Your Patience

We understand that waiting longer than expected can be frustrating. Please know that these delays are outside of our control, but we’re doing everything we can to keep things moving smoothly.

As soon as there’s an update to your tracking status, you’ll be notified right away. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to help.

Reference Links

  • US Customs 5H Inspections: https://www.ecomcrew.com/u-s-customs-5h-inspections-hit-chinese-imports-hard/
  • Strait of Hormuz & Global Logistics: https://www.ups.com/us/en/supplychain/resources/news-and-market-updates/market-update-march-18-2026

Expanding the BC1 Open Benchtable Ecosystem with VGPU and SMR Kits

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We expand the BC1 Open Benchtable ecosystem with VGPU and SMR kits, solidifying its status as the industry standard open frame platform.

BC1 Open Benchtable

Over a decade ago, the BC1 Open Benchtable launched with one clear goal: the ultimate portable platform for traveling overclocking enthusiasts. Its minimalist, toolless, flat pack design proved so effective that it quickly evolved into the benchmark for open air builds and RD lab test bench setups providing easy access to hardware components.

Portability demanded compromises: slim profile, simple brackets, no native support for complete vertical builds. Today we close those gaps with two precision engineered accessories that extend the BC1’s legendary versatility without changing its core DNA. We are pleased to announce two new additions to the BC1 Open Benchtable ecosystem, the VGPU and SMR kits, designed to unleash the full potential of the BC1 and reinforce its status as the industry standard open frame platform.

The VGPU Kit

With the release of the BC1 Open Benchtable V2, we introduced a vertical display mode by reorienting the feet, which opened up new possibilities for showpiece builds. Today’s graphics cards are often the centerpiece of an enthusiast’s setup but have become larger and heavier, creating new demands for secure installation and stability.

We designed the VGPU (Vertical GPU) Kit to meet these needs. It provides a dedicated, adjustable base that fully supports the weight of modern GPUs while delivering complete vertical stability for the BC1 Open Benchtable. Using a standard riser cable (not included, ~18 cm with a 90° socket), your graphics card is securely mounted, resulting in a build that is both visually impressive and mechanically sound. The kit also includes mounts for a radiator, allowing it to be fitted neatly behind the benchtable in a streamlined vertical orientation.

The SMR Kit

The SMR (Side Mounted Rail) Kit replaces the standard compact brackets with a significantly more robust rail system. Compatible with the original BC1 (V1), the V2, and the BC1 Mini, the SMR features adjustable, rotating clamps that allow for the precise placement of radiators, fans, and other complementary hardware.Two different bracket designs are included, a longer bracket for radiators and shorter bracket for fans, VU1 and other hardware.

In keeping with the “maker” mindset of the Open Benchtable project, the SMR is optimised for custom bracket solutions. They feature a flat profile intentionally designed for easy replication. With the included templates and dimensions, users can quickly fabricate custom mounting hardware themselves or via third-party services.

VU1 & BENCHLAB

These accessories are designed to integrate seamlessly into a the broader BC1 Open Benchtable ecosystem. The SMR kit fan brackets double as brackets for the VU1, Streacom’s multipurpose dynamic dial, which can be paired with BENCHLAB to provide real time physical representation of PC telemetry.

Whether you are a hardcore enthusiast or professional using BENCHLAB’s advanced telemetry or simply displaying data from 3rd party software, the combination of the BC1, SMR, and VU1 creates a truly unique and visually stunning hardware platform.

Pricing and Availability

  • VGPU Kit:
    • Black: US$89 (incl. shipping) | BUY NOW
    • Silver: US$89 (incl. shipping) | BUY NOW
    • Titanium: US$89 (incl. shipping) | BUY NOW
  • SMR Kit: US$65 (incl. shipping) | BUY NOW

Shipping Pause from Feb 11 till Feb 25 Due to Chinese New Year 2026

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As the Year of the Fire Horse approaches with the festivities of the Chinese New Year, we at Open Benchtable are joining in the celebration by temporarily halting shipments from February 11th to February 25th, 2026.

This brief pause is our way of honoring this culturally significant time and allowing our team to partake in the joyous traditions and reunions that mark this auspicious occasion.

During this period, our customer support remains unwavering. Our dedicated team will be available to assist you with any inquiries, ensuring that you receive the same high-quality service you’ve come to expect from Open Benchtable.

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to resuming normal shipping operations on February 26th. Wishing you a joyous and prosperous Chinese New Year!

The Open Benchtable Team

Latest update on U.S. Shipping Policy

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We want to provide a latest update regarding our U.S. shipping policy in light of ongoing trade tariffs between the United States and China.

Three months ago, we announced temporary slower shipping to the U.S. due to a sharp increase in trade tariffs, reaching up to 145%. A month later, we updated our policy by introducing a price increase and switching exclusively to DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping. This ensured all import costs and customs handling fees were included in the purchase price, relieving U.S. based customers from dealing with customs.

Over the past two months, we have closely monitored actual shipping and tariff costs. Unfortunately, these expenses have exceeded our initial estimates due to rising shipping rates and higher tariff fees. The good news is that we’re simplifying our pricing to improve transparency and make it easier for you to understand.

Updated US Shipping Policy

Effective June 23, 2025: We have removed the 40% price increase for U.S. customers. Instead, we now apply flat-rate shipping fees based on order volume. We continue to ship under DDP terms, so all import-related duties and fees remain included.

Effective July 4, 2025:  We’re introducing a lower-cost shipping option using DAP (Delivered At Place) terms. This option excludes tariff-related fees, so customers choosing DAP may need to handle import customs and duties directly.

We will keep monitoring costs closely and may update our shipping policies as necessary to ensure fairness and clarity.

Thank You for Your Patience and Support

We’re grateful for your understanding and ongoing support as we navigate this evolving challenge. Our top priority is maintaining transparency and minimizing disruption for you, our valued customers.

If you have any questions or concerns about an existing or new order, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly at contact@openbenchtable.com.

We’ll continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated on any major changes.

The Open Benchtable Team

Update on U.S. Shipping Policy

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We would like to provide an update regarding our U.S. shipping policy in light of the recent, albeit temporary, easing of trade tariffs between the United States and China.

While the situation remains fluid and may evolve in the coming weeks and months, we have developed a short-term fulfillment strategy to support our U.S.-based customers. After carefully evaluating the impact of various shipment types, we have adjusted our approach to ensure continued service with greater clarity and efficiency.

Fulfillment Plan for U.S.-Based Customers

Despite a general reduction in tariffs, our products continue to be subject to a 35% tariff, in addition to customs processing and handling fees. To streamline the purchasing experience and provide pricing transparency, we have implemented a 40% price increase for U.S. customers. This revised pricing fully incorporates all associated logistics and tariff-related costs.

This change enables us to expedite order processing and eliminate unexpected fees at checkout, offering a smoother and more predictable experience for our customers.

For orders placed prior to May 20, 2025, our team will contact each customer individually to confirm how they would like to proceed under the updated terms.

Thank You for Your Patience and Support

We’re grateful for your understanding and ongoing support as we navigate this evolving challenge. Our top priority is maintaining transparency and minimizing disruption for you, our valued customers.

If you have any questions or concerns about an existing or new order, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly at contact@openbenchtable.com.

We’ll continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated on any major changes.

The Open Benchtable Team

Computex 2025 Open Benchtable Pickup

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Attention all Computex 2025 attendees!

If you’re planning on attending this year’s Computex 2025 and are considering buying a Open Benchtable, we have some exciting news for you! While we don’t have local stock of the Open Benchtable in Taiwan, we’re happy to offer a special promotion where you can have your order picked up during your Computex visit!

To be eligible for this offer, simply place an order on our web shop before May 3rd (3/5)and let us know that you’ll be picking up the order during Computex 2025 in Taiwan. We’ll arrange a time and place for you to receive your order in person. We can’t wait to see you there and hand over the Open Benchtable to you!

Travel safely and enjoy the show!

computex 2025

Important Update: Temporary Slower Fulfillment of U.S. Shipments

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Due to the recent rapid increase in tariffs on imported goods from China to the United States — now raised to 145% — we are temporarily fulfilling all shipments to the U.S at a slower rate. In addition to the steep increase, there remains significant uncertainty around how these tariffs will be implemented and how long they will remain in effect.

We’ll be reaching out to each of our U.S.-based customers individually to discuss your order and find the best solution — whether that means temporarily holding onto the shipment, refunding the order, or working out an alternative arrangement.

us china tariff

How our Business Works

For those who are unaware, we’re a small team of enthusiasts shipping to end-users directly from our warehouse in China.

The reason we’re shipping from China is because it’s closer to our suppliers. Even though we’ve considered onboarding alternative suppliers in other regions (including the United States), the truth is that it’s not economically viable. Not only do our China-based suppliers produce high-quality anodized aluminum parts, but they’re also willing to accept low enough minimum order quantities, and competitive prices.

To make the purchasing process more customer-friendly, we build in the shipping cost into the listed selling price. That means for most customers there’s no additional shipping fee even if the actual shipping rate is higher than what we factored into the selling price (unless you live in a remote area).

We work with premium shipping services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS to handle international shipments because they provide a high-quality service throughout the delivery process. This means we can usually deliver the product within a week. We ship with DAP incoterms, or Delivered-At-Place, which means the seller (us) agrees to pay all costs and suffer any potential losses of moving goods sold to a specific location. The costs includes the transportation to the customer and, sometimes, transportation back to our warehouse if the parcel is rejected at the border (e.g. customer refuses to pay import duties). Importantly, this cost doesn’t include duties or tariffs which is borne by the buyer and charged at import.

To deliver an Open Benchtable V2 to your doorstep covering all costs with a tariff rate of 145%, instead of charging US$199 we’d have to charge at least US$488 ($199 + $288.55). That excludes any additional customs handling fees.

Thank You!

We know this is more than an inconvenience for our US-based customers, and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these rapidly changing circumstances. Our team is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to share updates as soon as we have more clarity. We are hopeful this situation will resolve itself soon and we’ll back to delivering the world’s best PC Test Bench to PC enthusiasts in the US!

If you have any immediate questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at contact@openbenchtable.com.

Thank you for your continued support,

The Open Benchtable Team.

Introducing the BC1 Open Benchtable Pi: The Ultimate Test Bench for Raspberry Pi 5

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The BC1 Open Benchtable Pi brings the award-winning test bench to the world of single-board computers and Raspberry Pi 5.

BC1 Open Benchtable Pi Silver side assembled

March 14, 2025 – Open Benchtable and Streacom are proud to introduce the BC1 Open Benchtable Pi (“OBT Pi” or “BC1 Pi”), a compact and elegant test bench designed specifically for single-board computer and Raspberry Pi 5 enthusiasts, makers, and developers. 

Following the legacy of the award-winning BC1 Open Benchtable series, the BC1 Open Benchtable Pi combines a sleek, premium look with toolless design.

open benchtable family

Ultra-Compact, Premium, and Tool-Free

The BC1 Open Benchtable Pi focuses on minimalism and functionality in a Raspberry Pi test bench. Precision-crafted from high-quality aluminum, the BC1 OBT Pi ensures durability and stability while providing unrestricted access to the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins, ports, and add-ons, making it the perfect solution for prototyping, development, and creative projects.

BC1 Open Benchtable Pi Black top flat
BC1 Open Benchtable Pi Silver top flat

Key features of the BC1 Open Benchtable Pi include:

  • Universal Compatibility – Supports all single-board computers following the Raspberry Pi 5 form factor and mounting holes.
  • Tool-Free Assembly – A hassle-free, completely toolless setup that allows for quick and easy installation.
  • Slim & Lightweight – Designed to easily move around while maintaining robust durability.
  • Expandable – Easy to expand your SBC with accessories and HATs
  • Ultra-compact – Small footprint to minimize the space required for installation

Designed for Makers, Innovators, and Developers

Whether you’re a tinkerer, educator, or developer, the BC1 Open Benchtable Pi provides the perfect balance between accessibility and stability. Its sleek and industrial design complements workbenches, classrooms, and embedded applications, ensuring that your Raspberry Pi and single-board computer setups remain both fully accessible and organized.

BC1 Open Benchtable Pi Silver top view

Built To Last

As with every member of the BC1 Open Benchtable family, the BC1 Open Benchtable Pi is built to last. We meticulously evaluated the entire supply chain process to not only incorporate lower-waste processes but also overall reduce the environmental impact of the Open Benchtable production.

The Built To Last attitude doesn’t just apply to the Open Benchtable products; it also applies to our planet. Therefore, Open Benchtable joins our partner Streacom in its commitment to offset the environmental impact by reduced waste from smarter packaging and their partnership with the Eden Reforestation Project.

Availability & Pricing

The BC1 Open Benchtable Pi is available in Black and Silver color at US$39 MSRP via the Open Benchtable official store as OBT Pi and Streacom’s worldwide sales channel as BC1 Pi.

Pre-orders start from March 14, 2025, and are expected to start shipping on April 15, 2025. For more details, visit openbenchtable.com and streacom.com.

For media inquiries, review samples, or additional information, please contact: 

Stay connected with Open Benchtable on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest updates and community projects.

About Open Benchtable

The Open Benchtable project is a community-driven collaboration that started in 2015 between HWBOT, Overclocking-TV and Streacom to create a truly exceptional benchtable, one that redefines the product category and eclipses any other offerings in terms of portability, aesthetics, quality and design. https://openbenchtable.com/our-story/

Shipping Pause from Jan 24 till Feb 8 Due to Chinese New Year 2025

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As the Year of the Snake approaches with the festivities of the Chinese New Year, we at OPEN BENCHTABLE are joining in the celebration by temporarily halting shipments from January 24th to February 8th, 2025.

Chinese New Year 2025

This brief pause is our way of honoring this culturally significant time and allowing our team to partake in the joyous traditions and reunions that mark this auspicious occasion.

During this period, our customer support remains unwavering. Our dedicated team will be available to assist you with any inquiries, ensuring that you receive the same high-quality service you’ve come to expect from OPEN BENCHTABLE.

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to resuming normal shipping operations on February 9th. Wishing you a joyous and prosperous Chinese New Year 2025!

The OPEN BENCHTABLE Team

Open Benchtable Supports BTF Motherboards

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The Open Benchtable officially supports BTF form factor motherboards by double stacking the 25mm motherboard standoffs.

What is BTF?

ASUS BTF motherboards are a new line from ASUS designed specifically for users who want a clean and minimalist aesthetic in their PC builds. BTF stands for “Back To the Future,” and the key feature of these boards is that they hide most of the cables typically cluttering the inside of a computer case.

asus btf

Here’s what are the benefits of the new standard:

  • Hidden Connectors: Unlike traditional motherboards, BTF boards have their power, fan, and other connectors on the backside of PCB, facing the back of the case. This lets you route cables behind the motherboard, keeping them hidden from view.
  • Advanced BTF for Hidden Power Cables: Some motherboards, like the Z790-BTF, take this a step further with a special graphics card slot that can deliver power to the graphics card, eliminating the need for a separate PCIe power cable. This requires a compatible BTF graphics card as well.
  • ATX and mATX form factors: BTF motherboards are currently available in both ATX and mATX sizes, so you can choose one that fits your case.

The new form factor motherboards are a good option for PC builders who prioritize aesthetics and want a clean, cable-free look for their system. However, it’s important to note that they are a relatively new product and may be more expensive than traditional motherboards. They also require a compatible case and potentially graphics card to achieve the fully hidden cable look.

Other motherboard vendors offer similar form factor motherboards which feature backside connectors, for example: GIGABYTE Stealth and MSI Project Zero.

gigabyte stealth
msi project zero

Open Benchtable Compatibility

The Open Benchtable motherboard standoffs are 25mm, meaning the space between the backside of the motherboard and the Open Benchtable is 25mm. While that’s sufficient space to mount a BTF form factor motherboard, it is not sufficient to also plug the power supply cables. Hence, the Open Benchtable does not natively support BTF form factor motherboards.

However, a simple solution is to double stack the motherboard stand-offs. This can be done easily by purchasing three OBT Standoff M3 4-Packs. By double stacking the motherboard standoffs, the space between the backside of the motherboard PCB and the Open Benchtable is now 50mm. This is now sufficient space to also safely plug the power supply cables.

obt btf support

As we demonstrated with the BENCHLAB not so long ago, the Open Benchtable is a stable platform for your hardware even when double stacking the motherboard standoffs.