From the Decor Crafter journal

International Shipping for Marble Table Tops: A Buyer’s Checklist

Short answer: Before importing a marble table top, confirm the exact product and packed dimensions, net and gross weight, crate construction, freight method, insurance, customs responsibility, delivery level, inspection procedure, and damage-claim deadline. The cheapest freight quote is not necessarily the safest or the final landed cost. Marble is heavy, rigid, and vulnerable to impact at edges and corners. International shipping can be successful when the product, crate, documents, carrier service, and receiving plan are treated as one project. 1. Request two sets of measurements Ask for both the finished product dimensions and the packed crate dimensions. Freight and delivery access are based on the packed shipment. Confirm net weight, gross weight, and the number of packages. 2. Understand the packaging plan A suitable plan should protect the polished face, edge, corners, and underside from movement and impact. Ask the seller to explain the cushioning, moisture protection, internal restraint, and outer crate. For a table with a separate base, confirm whether it travels in the same crate or another package. 3. Clarify the shipping method Method Possible advantage Question to ask Air freight Often faster Where must the shipment be collected or cleared? Sea freight May suit large or multiple pieces Is it port, terminal, curbside, or door delivery? Courier/express Integrated tracking for eligible sizes Are weight, size, and stone restrictions satisfied? Specialist freight May offer handling options Does the service include appointment and lift-gate delivery? Availability and suitability depend on size, destination, carrier rules, and current trade conditions. 4. Separate product price from landed cost The landed cost may include the product, base, packing, inland transport, export handling, main freight, insurance, customs brokerage, duty, tax, storage, inspection, and final delivery. Ask which costs are included in writing. Customs rules and rates can change, so verify them with the destination country’s customs authority or a licensed broker. 5. Confirm the shipping term Do not rely on the word “free shipping” without understanding the delivery point and responsibility. Ask who pays each stage, who is the importer of record, when risk transfers, and whether duties or taxes are prepaid or collected later. 6. Ask about insurance Confirm whether coverage is included, what value is declared, which events are excluded, and what evidence a claim requires. Save the invoice, packing list, payment record, correspondence, tracking, and pre-dispatch photographs. 7. Plan the receiving team Check gate, driveway, elevator, stair, and doorway dimensions. Confirm whether the truck offers curbside, lift-gate, or inside delivery. Arrange enough trained help or professional movers. Prepare a safe inspection area. Keep the correct tools available for opening the crate without touching the stone. Do not lift a heavy top by one edge or drag it across the floor. 8. Inspect before signing when permitted Check the outer crate for holes, crushing, moisture, broken bands, or impact. Photograph every side before opening. If damage is visible, follow the carrier’s notation and claim procedure. Do not discard packaging until the product has been inspected and any claim is resolved. 9. Photograph the unpacking A continuous set of photographs or video can document the crate condition, protection layers, product, and any damage. Report a problem promptly through the seller and carrier channels stated in the shipping documents. Questions to ask before payment What are the product and crate dimensions? What are the net and gross weights? What protection is used on the face and perimeter? Which freight service and delivery level are quoted? Who handles clearance, duty, tax, and brokerage? Is transit insurance included? What is the inspection and damage-reporting procedure? Will I receive final product and packing photos? Frequently asked questions Does worldwide shipping mean duties are included? No. “Worldwide shipping” only describes destination coverage. Duties, taxes, brokerage, and local charges must be confirmed separately. Can a marble table top ship without a base? Yes, many tops and bases travel separately. Confirm that your chosen base is structurally suitable and that both packages arrive when needed. What should I do if the crate is damaged? Photograph it before moving or opening, follow the carrier’s notation rules, inspect safely, retain all packaging, and report the issue within the stated deadline. How can I reduce delivery surprises? Request a written landed-cost breakdown, packed measurements, service level, customs responsibility, insurance terms, and receiving plan before approving dispatch. Request a destination-specific quotation Choose a design from our marble inlay table tops , then send the product link, quantity, and destination postal code through our contact page . Decor Crafter can state what is included in the available shipping quotation. Shipping note: Freight services, customs rules, taxes, insurance, and carrier procedures vary and can change. Confirm current requirements with the relevant carrier, customs authority, or licensed broker. Last reviewed June 2026.