Easy Ways To Ship Stone Tiles

Shipping Stone Tiles

Stone tiles are very delicate and susceptible to damage, so it is essential to ship them correctly and work with an expert logistics team like FreightCenter. Make sure to follow the steps below carefully. If you have any questions regarding the packaging and shipping procedures or the process in general, our freight agents are available and ready to assist you!

Packaging: Getting this step right is essential in protecting your shipment. Wrap each tile in bubble wrap or foam to prevent scratching or friction damage. It is also wise to use cardboard separators between tiles to prevent damage. Choose a crate that is not too large, with minimal extra space to help prevent movement. Avoid stacking the product too high or loading it vertically.

Your best bet is to use short stacks or horizontal loading to help preserve the structural integrity. Stack the tiles with layers of cardboard or foam between the tiles. Palletizing or banding the tiles into cubes is another efficient and effective way to package the tiles. The last two cubed loads are usually placed on rubber mats to prevent them from shifting. 

Stacking & Arranging: Stack the tiles securely in a wooden crate or box if you are shipping multiple stone tiles. If you are sending a large amount of them, using a pallet to ship might add stability to the shipment. Make sure the tiles are arranged in a way that minimizes movement during the shipping process. 

Cushioning: Choose substantial cushioning materials like foam, cardboard, and air pillows. Place them under and around the tiles to prevent shifting during transportation. Cushioned materials help absorb shock and damage. 

Sealing: Seal the package or crate tightly with robust packing tape. This step is also essential to preventing movement during transit. 

Labeling: Label the package legibly, describing the package contents, fragility, and handling instructions. Ensure the labeled information is clear so it is dealt with appropriately during transportation. 

Contact FreightCenter: FreightCenter recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. This 3PL has decades’ worth of experience in the logistics industry, and our team is comprised of experts in the field. When selecting a freight service, look for a reputable business with extensive experience and proven business success in shipping delicate and heavy items such as stone tiles.

Custom Crating: Custom wooden crates designed to fit your tiles’ specific shape and size can prove very valuable. This packaging can provide an extra secure layer of protection. 

Documentation: Ensure you have completed all the necessary shipping documentation, including invoices, bills of lading, and any permits or certifications required for shipping stone tiles. This is especially important if the materials are exotic or protected.

Shipping Restrictions: Your FreightCenter agent will help you understand your stone tile shipment’s shipping restrictions or regulations. This especially applies if you ship tiles internationally, as they may be subject to import/export restrictions in other countries. 

Insurance: Purchasing insurance is crucial for most shipments, and this case is no different with a shipment as fragile as stone tiles! 

Tracking: Your freight agent will receive a tracking number once your shipment is booked. You can track the shipment in real-time, informing you about the shipment status and expected delivery date. Delivery/Unloading: Your freight agent will communicate with you about the expected delivery date/time and ensure you are ready to receive the shipment. Unloading these tiles might require special equipment and manpower, so prepare appropriately.

Cost to Ship

As with any other shipment, the cost to ship stone tiles varies depending on several factors. First, the weight and dimensions likely have one of the most significant impacts on shipping costs. Shipments that are larger and heavier will be more expensive. Since stone tiles are heavy, the weight will likely increase the cost automatically, so consider this factor when booking your shipment.

Another critical factor in pricing is the distance and shipping method. Whether you choose ground shipping, air, or sea freight, each method will affect the cost differently, but as a general rule, faster shipping methods, such as air freight, are usually more expensive. Additionally, the further the distance, the higher the cost. 

Other factors influencing shipping costs include the shipping company, the type of stone tiles, packaging, crating, and insurance. The shipping company you choose will impact costs for better or worse. Different shipping companies have different shipping rates and pricing structures, so research and choose your carrier wisely. Your FreightCenter agent will help you obtain quotes from various carriers to help you determine the best rate. As mentioned, some stone tiles require more careful handling and shipping, increasing the cost. 

More factors influencing the shipping cost of stone tiles include the packaging, insurance, shipping services, customs/duties, and volume discounts. First, the packaging and crating can contribute to the cost due to the weight of the crates and packaging materials. It will increase the cost if you need additional services such as a liftgate, inside delivery, and expedited shipping. Last, consider the insurance costs, as they will reflect the shipment’s declared value and customs and duties taxes, which will also increase the cost.

Considering all these factors when planning a stone tile shipment is essential because they will directly affect the total shipping cost. While all the extra factors may seem pricy, our expert freight agents will help you find the industry’s most efficient, reliable, and cost-effective freight rates. They will help you lock in the best deals and the most competitive rates without the stress! One of the hidden benefits of shipping large volumes of stone tiles is the potential for volume discounts. If you send a substantial quantity of stone tiles, the cost per tile may decrease.