Buying natural stone from another country can feel like a big step, especially for a first order. Most problems we see come from missing details at the start, not from the stone itself. This guide walks through the order the way we handle it, so you know what to send and what to expect.
Step 1: Choose The Stone And The Finish
Start with the stone type and the colour. We supply sandstone, limestone, granite, marble and slate, with more than 70 varieties in our catalogue.
Then choose the finish. The same stone looks and feels different when it is natural, honed, polished or flamed, and the finish also affects grip outdoors.
Step 2: Fix The Size, Thickness And Quantity
Give the length, width and thickness in millimetres. If you need several sizes, list each one with its quantity. Tell us the total area in square metres, or the number of containers if you already know it.
Add extra for cutting and breakage. For simple layouts, buyers usually add around 5 percent.
Step 3: Ask For Photos Of The Actual Lot
Natural stone changes from block to block. A photo on a website shows the stone type, not the exact pieces you will receive. Before you confirm, ask for photos of the current lot, and a sample if colour matching matters for your project.
Step 4: Agree The Price Terms
Ask which delivery term the price is based on. The two most common terms in stone export are:
- FOB (Free On Board): the price covers the stone until it is loaded on the ship at the Indian port. You arrange the sea freight and insurance.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight): the price also covers sea freight and insurance up to your destination port.
Tell us your country and destination port, so we can quote on the term you prefer.
Step 5: Packing
Stone for export is packed in wooden crates or on pallets, with each piece protected so it does not chip in transit. Many countries require wooden packing to be heat treated and marked under the international ISPM 15 standard. Check the rule for your country with your import agent.
You can read how we pack stone on our packing and delivery page.
Step 6: Shipping Documents
Your customs agent will tell you which documents your country needs. Common ones include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin. Share this list with us before shipping so nothing is missing when the container arrives.
Quick Checklist Before You Confirm
- Stone type, colour and finish are written in the quotation.
- Every size, thickness and quantity is listed.
- You have seen photos of the current lot.
- The price term, FOB or CIF, and the port are clear.
- Your import documents are agreed.
Start With One Message
Send the stone, size, thickness, finish, quantity and your port on WhatsApp through the form on our homepage. We will reply with questions or a written quotation.
Questions From First-Time Importers
What Is The Smallest Order You Accept?
It depends on the stone and the size. Tell us the quantity you need, and we will tell you whether it can ship on its own or together with another order.
How Long Does An Order Take?
It depends on whether the stone and size are in stock, how much cutting is needed, and the shipping schedule from the port. We confirm the time in the written quotation, before you place the order.
Can I See The Stone Before It Ships?
Yes. Ask for photos or a short video of your packed order before the container is loaded. If you have an agent in India, they can also check the stone in person.
Who Arranges Customs Clearance At My End?
Customs clearance in your country is usually handled by your own clearing agent. Share their contact with us early, so they can tell us any labelling or document needs before the stone is packed.