India has emerged as one of the world’s most reliable hubs for ceramic tile manufacturing and global supply. With advanced factories, skilled labor, and well-organized export systems, Indian exporters serve distributors, builders, and retailers across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. If you are planning to source tiles internationally, understanding the export workflow will help you make informed and confident purchasing decisions.
This guide explains the step-by-step export process followed by Indian ceramic tile exporters, from inquiry to final delivery, so you know exactly how professional suppliers manage quality, compliance, and international shipping.
Step 1 – Buyer Enquiry & Requirement Analysis
The export process begins when an overseas buyer contacts a ceramic tile exporter in India with specific requirements. These usually include tile size, finish (glossy, matte, digital, or rustic), thickness, quantity, destination port, and packaging preferences.
At this stage, the exporter studies your needs carefully and suggests suitable products, catalogs, and technical specifications. A professional Ceramic Tiles Export Company in India will also confirm whether your market has any special standards, such as water absorption limits, breaking strength, or anti-slip ratings. Clear communication at this step prevents future issues and ensures both sides agree on product scope, pricing, and timelines.
Step 2 – Quotation & Commercial Terms
After finalizing product specifications, the exporter prepares a detailed quotation. This includes:
- Tile model numbers and descriptions
- Unit price (FOB, CIF, or CFR)
- Minimum order quantity
- Packing details
- Estimated production and dispatch time
Top exporters, including Sunshineexport, provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs. They also offer guidance on the most economical shipping methods and container utilization.
Once the buyer accepts the quote, payment terms such as an advance percentage, balance against documents, or LC (Letter of Credit) are finalized.
Step 3 – Order Confirmation & Proforma Invoice
The exporter issues a Proforma Invoice (PI) after a commercial agreement. This legal document contains buyer and seller details, HS code, product description, quantity, value, and payment terms.
When the buyer makes the advance payment or opens an LC, the order is officially confirmed. Production planning will begin immediately to meet delivery deadlines.
Step 4 – Raw Material Selection & Production
High-quality ceramic tiles depend on premium raw materials such as clay, feldspar, quartz, and pigments. We are leading tile exporters in India, utilizing standardized formulations to ensure uniformity and durability.
The production process involves:
- Body preparation
- Pressing and shaping
- Drying
- Glazing or digital printing
- Firing in high-temperature kilns
Each batch is monitored closely to meet export-grade quality requirements. Exporters supplying 30×30 ceramic tiles from India often use automated plants to maintain consistency even for bulk orders.
Step 5 – Quality Inspection & Testing
Before packing, tiles go through strict quality control checks. These include:
- Size and thickness accuracy
- Surface finish and color consistency
- Water absorption
- Breaking strength
- Edge squareness
The best ceramic tiles Export company in India may also arrange third-party inspections if requested by the buyer. This step ensures the tiles meet international standards and minimizes disputes after shipment.
Get Bulk Pricing from Indian Ceramic Tile Exporters
Step 6 – Export Packing & Palletizing
Proper packing is critical for long-distance shipping. Tiles are packed in strong corrugated boxes with foam or plastic separators. Boxes are then stacked on fumigated wooden pallets or loaded directly into containers.
Export-oriented ceramic companies in India follow container loading best practices to prevent movement and breakage during transit.
Step 7 – Documentation & Customs Clearance
The exporter prepares all mandatory export documents, including:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading
- Test reports (if required)
These documents are submitted to Indian customs for clearance. Once approved, the container is allowed to move to the port for shipment.
Step 8 – Shipment & Tracking
After customs clearance, the goods are loaded onto the vessel. The exporter provides shipment details, the container number, and Bill of Lading copies to the buyer. Professional exporters, such as Sunshine Export, also assist buyers with tracking and updates until the container reaches its destination port.
Step 9 – Delivery & After-Sales Support
Upon arrival, the buyer clears the goods through local customs and takes delivery. Reputed exporters provide after-sales support, helping resolve any documentation or quality concerns. This long-term approach builds trust and repeat business, which is why Indian exporters are preferred globally.
FAQs – Ceramic Tiles Export from India
Q1. Why choose a Ceramic Tiles Export Company in India?
India offers high-quality manufacturing, competitive pricing, and exporters experienced in handling global shipping and standards.
Q2. How do I find the best ceramic tiles Export company in India?
Look for export experience, quality certifications, packaging standards, and clear communication before finalizing.
Q3. What is the typical MOQ for ceramic tile exports from India?
Most exporters require a minimum of one 20-ft container, but some allow mixed models in one shipment.
Q4. Do Indian ceramic tile exporters offer private labeling?
Yes, many exporters provide OEM branding, customized boxes, and product labeling for distributors.
Q5. How long does shipment take from India to overseas ports?
Depending on the destination, transit time ranges from 15 to 40 days.