Know the technical classification
Ask for the technical data sheet and the CE declaration of performance for each series you are considering.
- EN 14411 / ISO 13006 classify tiles by forming method and water absorption; porcelain tiles fall in group BIa, with water absorption of 0.5% or less.
- Glazed or unglazed (full-body) porcelain, and through-colour options.
- Slip resistance for floors, tested to the method your market uses.
- Frost resistance for outdoor use, and chemical and stain resistance where relevant.
Formats and finishes
- From small formats and mosaics to large slabs; larger formats need more careful handling and packing.
- Thickness: standard tiles, thicker outdoor pavers, and thin large-format slabs.
- Finishes: matt, polished, lappato, structured; rectified or non-rectified edges.
Shade, calibre and quality grade
Tiles are produced in batches. Each batch has a shade (tone) and calibre (size) code. For a project, order enough from one batch, and agree in writing that a shipment will not mix batches. First-quality material should be specified; commercial or second grades are sold at lower prices but with tolerances that may not suit your project.
Containers and logistics
Prices are usually quoted EXW or FCA the factory, or FOB a Spanish port such as Valencia, or CFR/CIF to your port.
- A 20 ft container is often the better choice for tiles, because loads are limited by weight rather than volume.
- Mixed containers with several series are often possible, depending on the manufacturer.
- Agree pallet type, strapping and corner protection, especially for large formats.
Documents
- Commercial invoice and packing list with batch details.
- Certificate of origin, and EUR.1 or an origin statement where a trade agreement applies.
- Bill of lading, and the declaration of performance for CE-marked products.
Glazed or full-body porcelain
Glazed porcelain has a decorated surface layer on a porcelain body, which allows a wide range of designs. Full-body or through-colour porcelain carries the colour through the tile, so chips are less visible, which suits heavy-traffic commercial floors. Ask the manufacturer which type each series is and where it is recommended for use.
Receiving and checking the goods
On arrival, check pallets for damage before signing the delivery note, and record any damage with photos. Open sample boxes and check that the series, shade and calibre codes match the order. Keep the box labels: they identify the batch if you need to reorder the same material later.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ordering by photo without checking the technical data sheet.
- Splitting a project across several batches with different shade codes.
- Filling a container by volume and then exceeding the weight limit.
- Choosing a slip resistance class that does not match local requirements.
- Forgetting trims and skirting from the same series.
Checklist before you order
- Series, format, finish and quality grade confirmed.
- Technical data sheet and declaration of performance received.
- Batch, shade and calibre agreed for the whole order.
- Container weight, pallet type and protection planned.
- Incoterm, payment terms and documents in writing.
- Samples approved before production or shipment.
Ordering through Kestrade
Send us the series or the technical requirements, quantities by format and destination. We approach manufacturers, check their registration and capacity, and present one offer with Incoterm, lead time and payment terms. Samples and technical sheets are available before you order.