Stone, cast-iron products, fencing and long decking profiles cannot be quoted reliably using a single universal shipping price. Freight depends on the final product specification, packing method, gross weight, volume, origin, route, destination and local delivery conditions.
This guide outlines the information needed to move from a rough material enquiry to a usable delivered quotation.
1. Finalise the product scope first
Freight calculations begin with the approved item list. Confirm sizes, quantities, materials, finishes and accessories before treating any shipping figure as firm. Changes in thickness, length, casting size or accessory scope can change both weight and packing volume.
2. Request a packing plan
The quotation should state how the goods are expected to be packed: crates, pallets, bundles, cartons or a combination. Ask for the anticipated number of packages, package dimensions, edge or moisture protection and any stacking restrictions. Fragile finished stone and pointed metalwork may require additional protection that affects volume.
3. Distinguish net, gross and chargeable weight
Net product weight is not the same as shipment weight. Gross weight includes crates, pallets, steel bands and protective materials. Depending on the transport mode, the carrier may also use volumetric or chargeable weight. The final packing list should control the shipment calculation.
4. Confirm packed volume
Request the packed cubic volume for the complete order, not a generic product CBM. Long WPC profiles, nested metal components and stone crates use space differently. Container or vehicle planning should follow the actual package layout and handling limits.
5. Give a precise destination
Provide the country and city, postal code where applicable, and whether the quotation should end at a port, terminal, warehouse or project site. Note restricted roads, appointment requirements, lift-gate needs, forklift availability and maximum package size where relevant.
6. Agree the trade term and cost scope
State the preferred Incoterm and named place if known. Clarify whether the quotation includes origin handling, main freight, destination charges, customs clearance, duty, tax, insurance and final delivery. These cost components vary by route and destination and should not be hidden inside a single unexplained figure.
7. Confirm origin only after the supply plan
A global project-supply business may use different factories and ports for different products or orders. The origin factory, port and route should be selected as part of each quotation. Avoid building the project plan around a fixed port before the product and supply source are confirmed.
Information to send for a freight review
- Approved product list, dimensions and quantities
- Expected packing method and package count
- Net weight, gross weight and packed volume when available
- Delivery country, city and final delivery point
- Required delivery window
- Preferred Incoterm and included cost scope
- Site access and unloading restrictions
Read the shipping and delivery guide, complete the project requirements checklist, or send the product list and destination for review.
Continue to export packing records
Once a packing proposal is available, use the heavy-material export packing guide to separate ISPM 15 controls, package-level packing data and SOLAS verified gross mass.
See all related resources in the Outdoor Materials Technical Library.