Step by Step Guide to Import Marble and Granite from India in 2024

Step by Step Guide to Import Marble and Granite from India

If you’re considering importing granite and marble from India in 2024, it’s a promising business opportunity. The demand for natural stones in construction and infrastructure development is constant, making this a sustainable and lucrative market. Major exporters of natural stones include India, China, Brazil, Turkey, and Italy. While China and Brazil focus on granite and Turkey and Italy on marble, India excels in exporting both marble and granite.

If you are already importing marble and granite in your country, you understand the significance of these stones from India. In the year 2024, Indian granite and marble are still highly prized for their beauty, variety, toughness, and competitive pricing. India exports over 100 types of natural stones, including marble, granite, sandstone, limestone, and slatestone. Indian granite and marble are renowned for being affordable, visually appealing, and durable, making them popular globally. Starting a new business by importing natural stones from India presents an excellent opportunity.

Step 1 to Import Granite and Marble

Understanding the Local Market

Different markets have unique demands. Research the popular granite and marble types in your area to identify the most sought-after materials. With thousands of quarries worldwide, each producing distinct stone types, it’s crucial to know which ones are in high demand in your market.

Visiting local fabricators can provide insights into the most popular materials. Fabricators typically do not import granite directly, so they could become potential customers. Establishing relationships with them might lead to future sales. Additionally, browsing our blogs on the most popular granite and marble can help you understand the trends in your market.

Choosing Materials

Once you have identified popular materials, decide which ones to import first. We offer the advantage of mixing different types of materials in one container, allowing you to select up to five materials per container load. Our stones are produced at five different facilities, so please consult us before finalizing your order to ensure compatibility.

Choosing Sizes and Thickness

Marble and granite come in various sizes and thicknesses, including slabs, tiles, and memorials. After selecting the colors, you need to finalize the size and thickness. Local fabricators can provide guidance on preferred sizes and thicknesses. For instance, countries like the United States, Canada, Tunisia, and Morocco typically prefer 3 cm slabs, whereas 2 cm slabs are more popular in Europe and Asia. Check your market’s preferences before importing.

Quantity

Understanding the minimum and maximum quantity a container can carry is essential. Prices are calculated on a Free On Board (FOB) basis, which includes local transportation, loading, and packing charges. The minimum quantity affects the price per unit. Discuss with us the minimum quantity required for specific sizes, thicknesses, and materials.

Freight Charges

Since materials are provided on an FOB basis, you need to determine ocean and local transportation charges. Contact a reputable freight forwarding agency or shipping line for ocean freight rates. Additionally, appoint an agent for freight and custom clearance charges in your country.

Calculate the Landing Cost

Sum all the charges, including ocean freight, terminal charges, custom clearance, transportation to your stockyard, and local taxes, to estimate the total expense of importing a container. Divide this total by the unit of import (e.g., square feet, square meters, or pieces) to determine the landing cost per unit.

Compare Landing Cost with Market Prices

Compare the landing cost per unit with market selling prices to ensure profitability. The selling prices should be higher than the landing cost.

Decide the Selling Price

Add a suitable margin to the landing cost. Companies vary in their margin strategies, so set your selling price according to market trends.

Payment Terms

With popular colors, sizes, thicknesses, and landing costs identified, proceed with the import process. We offer various payment terms based on materials and quantities, including:

  • Letter of Credit (LC)
  • Credit Card (PayPal)
  • Full Advance
  • Advance + Pay on Receiving

We also provide material on a Cash Against Documents basis, depending on the circumstances.

By following these steps, you can effectively navigate the process of importing natural stones from India and ensure a successful business venture.

Step 2 – Ordering Granite and Marble

Ordering the Materials

After finalizing everything from materials to payment terms, you can place your order. The completion time depends on the selected colors and quantities. We have the capacity to produce 40-45 containers per month.

Material Inspection

Once your order is ready, you can proceed with the inspection. The available types of inspection are:

  • Factory Inspection: Our factory inspectors provide pictures of your materials.
  • Third-Party Inspection: You can appoint a third party to check the quality.
  • Self-Inspection: You can visit our plants to inspect the quality yourself.

Ordering the Container

After verifying the quality of the materials, you can arrange for a container through your shipping agent. They can provide either open-top or box containers. It’s advisable to negotiate ocean freight prices with different providers.

Packing, Loading, and Inspection

Good Packaging of the goods is a critical part of any export or import consignment. It is done according to client requirements, so please provide your packing standards and request pictures of the packing process. Generally, the exporter provides loading pictures. Proper packing is essential as natural stones are brittle and can break if not packed correctly.

Documentation

Once you finalize the order, provide all the shipping instructions. Always request drafts of the documents before finalizing them to avoid costly mistakes. Key documents include:

  • Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading
  • Certificate of Origin (Form A)
  • GSP (for selected countries)
  • Fumigation Certificate

Show these drafts to your customs clearance agent and request changes if necessary.

Shipping

Shipping times can range from 1 day to 60 days depending on your destination. Typical shipping times are as follows:

  • East Asia: 2-15 days
  • Australia: 20-28 days
  • Europe: 25-35 days
  • North Africa: 25-35 days
  • Americas: 45-60 days

Shipping times can vary by port, so check with your freight provider in advance and allow an extra 8-10 days to ensure timely delivery.

Step 3 – Getting the material and documents

Getting Documents

After fulfilling your payment terms, you will receive all the necessary documents, such as the Bill of Lading, GSP, Invoice, etc. These documents can be obtained directly or through your bank. Ensure that all documents are prepared according to your requirements.

Releasing the Container

Once you have the documents, provide them to your agent. Your agent will handle the release of the container by meeting the necessary requirements of your customs or any other relevant agency.

Receiving Material in Your Stockyard

After continuous follow-ups and tracking, your container will finally arrive at your stockyard. Upon arrival, inspect the container to ensure proper loading and packing. Unload the materials and perform measurements and other quality inspections. This step completes your process of importing granite and marble from India with Flodeal. You can now sell the material to your clients and prepare for your next order.

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