How to Import Tiles from India: A Complete Guide

Global Tile Exporter | Ceramic and Porcelain Tile Supplier | Vitrified Tiles | Global Sourcing | Reliable Tile Manufacturer

The Indian tile industry is growing rapidly, with a 15% annual increase, placing India among the top three global tile producers. Thanks to advancements in manufacturing technology and infrastructure, Indian tile exports continue to grow significantly.

According to the 2019 Daily Records report on the top 10 Indian tile companies, four of the top ten manufacturers are Indian. As a major exporter, India supplies a wide range of ceramic, porcelain, and stoneware tiles to international markets.

For companies looking to import tiles from India, understanding the process is essential to ensure smooth transactions. This guide covers everything you need to know about importing tiles from India, from choosing the right tiles to finding a reliable supplier and managing logistics.

1. Choose the Right Tiles for Your Market

The Indian tile industry produces various types of tiles, including:

Wall tiles: 20% market share

Floor tiles: 25% market share

Porcelain/laminate tiles: 50% market share

Industrial tiles: 7% market share

Among these tile types, ceramic and porcelain (vitrified) tiles are the most exported due to their durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal.

Tile categories in high demand

Pathway tiles

Wood-look tiles

Stair tread tiles

Garage tiles

Choosing the right type of tiles based on the demands of your target market ensures higher profitability and customer satisfaction.

2. Types of Tiles Made in India

India manufactures and exports a wide range of high-quality ceramic and glazed tiles, including:

Porcelain/Vintage Tiles

Full Body Vitrified Tiles

Double-Charged Vitrified Tiles

Soluble Salt Vitrified Tiles

Ceramic Tiles

Digital Wall Tiles

Ceramic Floor Tiles

Standard Ceramic Tiles

All tiles meet international quality standards, ensuring compliance with Intertek certification and other global standards.

3. Choosing the Right Tile Manufacturer/Supplier

Finding a reliable Indian tile manufacturer is essential to ensure high-quality products and smooth transactions. Below are some important factors to consider:

Industry Experience: Choose manufacturers with over 10 years of experience in exporting tiles.

Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews, B2B platforms, and company websites.

Product Quality: Ensure stringent quality controls and verified raw materials. Factory Tours/Videos: Request a virtual tour or visit the manufacturing unit.

Certifications: Check industry certifications like Intertek, ISO, CE, and CGCRI testing.

Safe and Timely Delivery: Ensure on-time packaging and shipments.

4. Where to Find the Best Tile Manufacturers in India?

The largest tile manufacturing hub in India is Morbi, Gujarat, with over 400 manufacturers. Gandhinagar, also in Gujarat, is another major hub for tile manufacturing.

Why Choose Morbi for Your Tile Supply?

India’s largest tile manufacturing hub

Produces over 2.8 million square meters of tiles per day

Industrial investment exceeds Rs 8 billion

Employs over 600,000 professionals

The second largest tile manufacturing hub in the world after Guangdong, China

To connect with the best tile manufacturers, use trusted B2B platforms like:

  1. India MART

      2. Alibaba

       3. Gujarat Tiles Info (GTI)

5. Quality checks before importing tiles

The quality of the tiles is essential for successful imports. Below are some essential quality tests:

Water absorption test: Pour water on glazed tiles. If water is absorbed, the tile is of poor quality.

Scratch resistance test: This checks the durability of glazed/full-body tiles.

Certification Check: Confirm Intertek and CGCRI certifications.

Request tile samples or product videos before finalizing your wholesale orders to avoid quality issues.


6. Shipping and Logistics for Importing Tiles

Shipping tiles from India requires careful planning. The logistics process works as follows:

Port of Loading
• Manufacturers transport the tiles to the nearest ports.
• Freight on Board (FOB) generally covers these costs.
  
Freight Costs
• Costs vary depending on whether the container load is full (FCL) or less than full (LCL).
• Choose based on order size and your budget.
  
 Insurance
• Tiles are fragile; therefore, it is advisable to purchase cargo insurance to protect them.
  
 Customs Clearance
• Importers must post a customs bond for the United States and other regulated markets.
• Prepare the necessary documents to ensure smooth customs clearance.
  
 Transportation of Goods
• Once at the destination port, arrange for local delivery. 7. Payment Terms for Tile Imports
  
 Standard payment terms for tile imports from India:
• 30% deposit upon order confirmation.
• 70% balance upon shipment. Common Payment Methods
• Telegraphic Transfer (TT): Secure and widely used.
• PayPal: Ideal for small orders but with higher fees.
• Letter of Credit (LC): Ideal for bulk imports (orders over $30,000).
• Cash payments can be made during a visit to India.
If you are importing for the first time, consider placing a small trial order before committing to larger shipments.

Conclusion
The Indian tile industry is a global leader, offering high-quality ceramic, porcelain, and porcelain tiles at competitive prices. As a leading tile exporter, India supplies certified, durable, and aesthetic tiles to the world. With its advanced manufacturing capabilities, rigorous quality control, and export expertise, India ensures the smooth flow of international tile trade. Whether it's paving tiles, wood-effect tiles, stair treads, or parking lot tiles, Indian tile manufacturers offer cost-effective solutions with guaranteed quality and timely delivery.

For companies looking to import high-quality tiles from India, partnering with reputable tile manufacturers ensures a seamless, cost-effective, and hassle-free experience.