Transportation of ceramic tiles is a task that requires a precise approach and selection of appropriate transport. This material is classified as fragile, which means that its delivery requires compliance with special conditions. Depending on the volume, distance and destination, different types of transport can be used. In this article, we will analyze which options are best suited and what nuances should be taken into account when choosing.
1. Automobile transport is a universal solution
For most domestic shipments (e.g. across Kazakhstan), trucks remain the main mode of transport. This is the optimal way to deliver tiles from the warehouse to the unloading point. The following types of transport are used:
- Tarpaulin trucks are suitable for standard palletized cargo.
- Isothermal and refrigerated vans are used when protection from external temperature and humidity is required.
- All-metal vans provide additional protection against mechanical damage.
Advantages:
- Route flexibility;
- Door-to-door option;
- Good logistics management;
- Fast delivery over short and medium distances.
2. Rail transport – reliability and scale
Rail transportation is relevant for large volumes and long distances, especially on routes between the CIS countries, China and Europe. Container transportation is usually used: tiles are loaded onto pallets and placed in standard 20- or 40-foot containers.
Advantages:
- High load capacity;
- Reduced risk of damage when installed correctly;
- Stable schedule and predictability.
However, rail transport often requires additional delivery by road transport on the “last mile”.
3. Sea transport is ideal for international deliveries
When importing tiles from Turkey, China, Spain or other countries, sea transportation is the most economical method for large volumes. As a rule, tiles are also packed in containers.
Advantages:
- Low cost for mass supply;
- Possibility of transporting a large consignment in one trip;
- Stability of cargo when properly packaged.
Flaws:
- Long delivery time;
- Dependence on weather conditions;
- The need for transit through ports and subsequent delivery to the warehouse.
4. Air transportation is exotic, but possible
Transportation of tiles by plane is rare and is used in exceptional cases when urgent delivery of a small amount of elite tiles is required. This is the most expensive method, and it requires careful packaging and coordination with the air carrier.
How to choose the right transport?
The choice depends on several factors:
- Distance to destination;
- Volume and weight of the tile;
- Delivery times;
- Sensitivity to external conditions (temperature, humidity);
- Budget for logistics.
The best option is often to combine modes of transport , especially for international shipments. This is called multimodal logistics – we will talk about it in the next article.
