How to import natural stone paving from India

A first container from India is simpler than it looks once you know the steps. This guide is written for importers in the UK, Ireland and the US. It is general information, so confirm customs and tax details with your broker.

The steps

1. Choose the stone and specification. Pick the stone, size, finish and thickness. Our most-sold sizes are 30x30, 60x30, 60x60 and 60x90 cm.
2. Approve a sample. Ask for a sample pack and check colour, finish and size.
3. Get a quote. Ask what the price includes. Tell us your port and we will confirm the terms with your quote.
4. Agree payment. Our terms are 100% advance.
5. Production and inspection. We dispatch within 7 days. Before dispatch we send videos of every lot and pack.
6. Shipping. The container goes by sea to your port.
7. Customs and delivery. Your broker clears the goods and a haulier delivers them to your yard.
8. Check on arrival. Photograph the packs, compare with your sample and report damage promptly.

Shipping terms in plain words

FOB (free on board) means the price covers the goods and loading at the port of departure. You arrange and pay for the sea freight and insurance.

CIF (cost, insurance and freight) means the price also covers sea freight and insurance to your port. You pay import charges after arrival.

Either way, ask for the exact basis in writing so you can compare quotes properly.

Documents you should receive

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading
• Certificate of origin, where your country requires it
• Test reports, if you asked for them

Customs and tax by country

• UK: you need an EORI number to import. Import duty and VAT apply, depending on the product code and your status.
• Ireland: you need an EU EORI number. Duty and VAT apply under EU rules.
• US: you need a customs entry and usually a customs bond. For ocean freight, an Importer Security Filing must be made before the container loads.

Worked paving stone is generally classified under heading 6802, but the exact code and duty rate depend on the stone and the finish. Ask your customs broker to confirm both.

What makes up your landed cost

• Price per square metre of stone
• Sea freight and insurance
• Port and handling charges
• Import duty and VAT or sales tax
• Haulage to your yard

Plan for the unloading

Stone is heavy. A container usually fills up on weight before it fills up on space, so have a forklift or crane ready at your yard, and check the delivery site can take a container lorry.