Most stone buying problems start before the stone is even loaded. Supplier selection is where shipments are won or lost. Here are the warning signs that should make you pause, based on how the stone trade actually works.
1. They will not show you the actual material
If a supplier sends only glossy photos and avoids video of the real slabs, treat it as a warning. Stone varies by lot. Anyone selling a specific material should be able to walk you through the yard on a video call.
2. They are vague about specifications
Thickness, finish, size range and grade should be written down. If the quote says “standard” without numbers, ask for specifics. Vague specifications are how off-spec material gets delivered later.
3. The price is far below the market
Stone prices are fairly transparent. If a quote comes in 30 to 40 percent below everyone else, the material is probably lower grade, thinner, or the supplier plans to add charges later. Cheap quotes usually get expensive by the time the container lands.
4. No written quote with clear terms
A professional quote states the Incoterm (EXW, FOB or CIF), the port, the payment terms and the validity period. If you cannot get that in writing, you are not dealing with a serious exporter.
5. They demand full payment upfront
Standard practice for new relationships is a deposit with the balance before shipment, or a letter of credit. Full payment before production is a risk you should not take with a new supplier.
6. No samples, or samples from a different source
Some suppliers send a sample that does not match the lot they ship. Ask for the sample from the actual lot, and keep a photo of it for comparison at delivery.
7. No clear quality or rejection policy
Ask directly: what happens if slabs arrive cracked or the color does not match? A reliable supplier has a process for this. One that does not will disappear when there is a problem.
The short version
Stone is a relationship business. A good supplier shows you the material, writes clear terms and stands behind the shipment. If you see any of the flags above, slow down – the stone will still be there tomorrow, but a bad deal will follow you for months.
Looking for a supplier that shows you the actual lot? Message IndiStones – inspection videos and samples before you commit.