Large porcelain slabs are packed standing on edge, either in A-frames or in closed wooden crates. Smaller slabs, such as 800x1600 mm, may also travel flat in reinforced boxes on pallets.
Packing is where much of the breakage risk is decided. A slab is long and thin, so it must never bend, twist or take a point load on its face. Good packing holds it rigid from the factory floor to the fitter's van.
The main packing types
- A-frames: a steel or timber frame shaped like an A, with slabs leaning against both sides and strapped tight. A-frames suit the largest sizes and are quick to unload with a forklift.
- Wooden crates: a closed or semi-closed timber box with slabs standing inside. Crates give more protection against knocks and suit long journeys and multiple handling.
- Reinforced boxes on pallets: heavy cartons with edge protection, stacked flat or on edge on a pallet. They suit the smaller slab sizes.
See the packing first
Each factory has its own designs. Ask for photos and drawings of the packing for your size and thickness before you confirm the order.
What good slab packing includes
- A sturdy base so the slabs' bottom edges rest evenly along their length, not on two points.
- Foam, cardboard or plastic sheets between slab faces, so polished surfaces do not rub.
- Corner and edge protectors, because corners chip first.
- Steel or strong plastic strapping, tensioned so slabs cannot move but not so tight that they crack.
- Clear labels showing design, size, thickness, grade, shade, calibre, batch, number of slabs and gross weight.
- Lifting points or forklift openings marked on the frame or crate.
Wood and ISPM 15
Most importing countries require solid wood packaging, including crates, pallets and frame timbers, to meet the international standard ISPM 15. That means the wood has been treated, usually heat-treated, and carries the official ISPM 15 mark. Plywood and other processed wood are generally outside the rule.
If the mark is missing, customs can reject, treat or destroy the packing at your cost. Our guide on ISPM 15 pallets for tiles explains the marks and how to check them.
Inside the container
Packing only works if the frames and crates are secured in the container. They should be placed so the weight is spread evenly, blocked and braced against the walls, and lashed to the container's lashing points. Gaps should be filled so nothing can slide during the voyage.
Ask the factory for a loading plan that shows where each frame or crate sits. Our guide on how many slabs fit in a container explains how weight limits shape that plan.
What to put in the order
- The packing type and materials, with reference photos or drawings.
- The number of slabs per frame or crate and the gross weight of each.
- ISPM 15 treatment and marking for all solid wood.
- Securing and lashing inside the container, with photos at loading.
Next step
We agree packing in writing before production and supervise loading so the frames are secured as planned. To review packing for your slab orders, book a free sourcing review.