Granite countertop

Granite is typically categorized into three grades: Entry Level (Grade 1), Mid-Grade (Grade 2), and High-Grade (Grade 3+). For B2B procurement, the standard thickness is 2cm (approx. 3/4 inch) or 3cm (approx. 1 1/4 inch). While 2cm is more cost-effective and lighter for shipping, 3cm offers superior durability and does not require plywood support, making it the preferred choice for high-end residential and commercial projects.

Buyers must verify the Mohs hardness scale (should be 6-7) and the water absorption rate (ideally <0.4%) to ensure stain resistance. During inspection, check for uniformity in thickness (tolerance should be within ±1mm) and ensure there are no structural cracks or large 'fissures' that could lead to breakage during transit or installation. Always request a polished gloss meter reading of 85+ degrees for a premium finish.

The most common finishes are Polished (high shine), Honed (matte), and Leathered (textured). For commercial high-traffic areas, Polished finishes are easiest to maintain. Regarding edge profiles, Eased or Beveled edges are the most economical and reduce the risk of chipping, whereas Ogee or Bullnose edges provide a more decorative look but increase labor costs.

Ensure the supplier adheres to ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental standards. For the US market, NSF/ANSI 51 certification is crucial if the granite is used in food preparation areas. Additionally, check for CE marking for European exports to ensure the stone meets health, safety, and environmental protection standards.

Granite is heavy and brittle. You must mandate the use of reinforced ISPM-15 certified wooden crates with internal A-frame supports. Ensure the slabs are packed face-to-face with foam or plastic film separation to prevent scratching. It is highly recommended to purchase All-Risk Marine Insurance to cover potential damage during sea freight.

When sourcing on Made-in-China.com, focus on Total Landed Cost rather than just the FOB price. Negotiate for free samples (you pay shipping) to verify color consistency. For large projects, request a dry-lay inspection, where the supplier lays out the slabs in their factory so you can approve the vein matching and color flow via high-resolution video before crating.

Use Secured Trading Services provided by platforms like Made-in-China.com to ensure your payment is only released after the supplier provides the Bill of Lading (B/L) and a Third-Party Inspection Report. A standard payment structure is 30% T/T deposit and 70% against the copy of shipping documents.

The standard HS Code for worked granite is 6802.93. Be aware of Anti-Dumping Duties (ADD) that may apply to stone products from certain regions. Always consult with a local customs broker to confirm the import tariff rates in your specific country to avoid unexpected costs at the port.