You prevent most tile breakage in a container by doing four things: use proper export packing, follow a loading plan, stop the load from moving, and supervise the loading. Breakage comes mostly from weak cartons, loads that shift, and rough handling at either end.
Some breakage is a risk with any heavy, brittle product. The aim is to keep it low and to have the evidence and insurance to deal with what remains.
Why tiles break in transit
- Cartons are too weak for the weight stacked on them and crush at the corners.
- The load is not tight, so pallets or cartons shift when the container is lifted, braked or rolled at sea.
- Gaps at the door end let the last rows move or fall when the doors are opened.
- Pallets are built too high or too heavy, or overhang their base.
- Weight is not spread evenly along the container floor.
- Forklifts or workers handle pallets and cartons roughly at loading or unloading.
Packing that protects
Start with export packing: strong cartons sized to the tiles, edge protection, strapping, wrapping and treated pallets. Our article on standard versus export packing lists what to specify. Large slabs need A-frames or crates and a different approach.
Ask for a photo of a built pallet before production, and check the packing at inspection. Packing tends to slip on repeat orders, so keep checking.
Loading that holds
Ask the factory for a loading plan that shows the position of each pallet or carton stack and its weight. The weight should be spread evenly along the floor, with no heavy concentration at one end.
Then make the load tight. Pallets should sit close together. Remaining gaps should be filled with dunnage, airbags or wooden bracing, especially at the door end. Loose cartons should be stacked tightly in rows with heavier cartons at the bottom.
Remember that tiles fill a container by weight, not volume, so there will always be empty space above the load. That is normal, but the load must be secured so it cannot slide into that space.
Supervise the loading
- Check the container is clean, dry, and free of holes and floor damage before loading.
- Watch forklift work and stop any rough handling.
- Check each pallet's straps, wrap and edge boards as it goes in.
- Check that gaps are filled and the door end is braced.
- Photograph each stage, the final load and the seal number.
Keep the evidence
These photos are your evidence if a claim is needed. Keep them with the inspection report and packing list for each container.
Insurance and claims
Even with good packing, take cargo insurance that covers breakage. Not every policy does, so read the terms. Our article on insurance for tile shipments explains the main types of cover.
At destination, inspect the container before unloading and record any damage. If you find breakage, follow the steps in making a tile breakage claim, starting with photos and notes before anything is moved.
Next step
We agree packing and loading plans with the factory and supervise loading with photos at each stage. To reduce breakage on your next order, book a free sourcing review.