Porcelain Tiles
Ship Porcelain Tiles with Confidence
From delicate decorative tiles to full pallets of flooring, FreightCenter ensures your porcelain tile shipments arrive safe, secure, and on time. We connect you with top-rated carriers and tailored freight solutions built to protect your tiles from warehouse to job site.
Other Types of Tile We Ship
Shipping Mosaic Tiles Easy Ways to Ship Porcelain Tiles Shipping Travertine Tiles Easy Ways To Ship Terrazzo TilesPorcelain tile shipping isn’t just about freight. It’s about protecting fragile, high-value goods that are costly to replace. Whether you’re a flooring distributor, construction supplier, or tile retailer, FreightCenter helps you ship porcelain tiles safely, affordably, and with complete confidence. With over 25 years of freight expertise and access to a vast network of trusted carriers, we simplify the entire shipping process from quote to delivery.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose FreightCenter for Porcelain Tile Shipping?
Freight Expertise That Understands the Industry
We’ve helped thousands of businesses ship porcelain and ceramic tile across the country with freight solutions tailored to fragile, weight-sensitive materials. Our experts understand freight classes, packaging best practices, and the importance of protective handling in every lane.
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We know which carriers handle tile best—and which ones to avoid.
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We advise on palletizing strategies that reduce tile breakage.
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We ensure your freight class and NMFC codes are accurate to avoid reclassification fees.
More Value, Less Hassle
With access to 50+ top-tier freight carriers and decades of volume discounts under our belt, we’re able to offer rates that punch well above your budget’s weight class, without sacrificing reliability or safety.
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Compare real-time quotes in one place.
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Book online or with a dedicated tile freight expert.
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Get tracking updates, documentation help, and insurance options, all from one team.
We’re Not Just a Broker—We’re Your Logistics Partner
While other 3PLs may simply provide a quote and walk away, we become an integral part of your team. We treat your shipment like it’s our own, handling the logistics while you focus on your business.
How to Ship Porcelain Tiles (Step-by-Step)
Shipping porcelain tiles takes careful preparation to prevent breakage, save on freight costs, and ensure a smooth delivery. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide designed for contractors, retailers, designers, and homeowners:
Step 1: Measure & Weigh Your Shipment
Start by measuring the length, width, height, and weight of your shipment. If you’re shipping a pallet or multiple boxes of tiles, get the total dimensions when stacked and wrapped. Accurate specs ensure:
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Proper freight class
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Accurate quote
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No unexpected fees
Tip: Use our Freight Class Calculator or call a FreightCenter expert to confirm your class and NMFC code.
Step 2: Choose the Right Packaging
Porcelain tiles are fragile and heavy, so proper packaging is non-negotiable. Here’s what we recommend:
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Box small quantities with foam, dividers, or cushioning.
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Palletize larger shipments tightly, stacking boxes evenly.
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Shrink wrap the entire pallet and secure it with strapping.
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Add corner protectors or edge guards for extra durability.
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For international or high-value freight, consider custom wood crating.
Step 3: Label Your Freight Clearly
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Mark your boxes or pallets with “Fragile, “Do Not Stack,” and “This Side Up” as needed.
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Include the destination address and contact number on every visible side.
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Attach a packing list and Bill of Lading (BOL) for easier handling.
Step 4: Select the Best Shipping Method
FreightCenter offers tailored shipping options based on your volume and urgency:
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LTL Freight – Ideal for smaller orders or boxed tile shipments
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FTL Freight – Best for bulk tile pallets that need dedicated space
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Flatbed Freight – Recommended for oversized or crated shipments
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Expedited Services – For urgent jobsite or showroom deliveries
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White-Glove Delivery – For high-end, fragile, or residential setups
Your FreightCenter expert will help you match your shipment with the right carrier and service level.
Step 5: Book, Track, & Receive
Once your shipment is booked, you’ll receive tracking details and updates via your FreightCenter portal. We’ll:
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Coordinate pickup and delivery.
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Ensure accessorials like liftgates or appointment scheduling are included.
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Monitor the shipment in transit and support you every step of the way.
Whether you're a flooring distributor, contractor, or manufacturer, our freight experts provide custom shipping solutions that are built to match your volume, delivery needs, and timeline.
Shipping smaller loads of porcelain tiles? Our LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) services are ideal for boxed or palletized shipments that don’t require a full truck. FreightCenter’s online tools let you compare rates from 50+ top carriers instantly—while our team helps you prep, protect, and track your shipment every step of the way.
Moving a full truckload of tiles to a job site or retail warehouse? FreightCenter provides full and partial truckload services designed for heavy, dense freight like porcelain. We’ll help you secure dry van or flatbed equipment based on your shipment's size, fragility, and destination—and ensure your load is handled with minimal transfers for maximum protection.
Some tile shipments are just too large or awkwardly shaped for standard trucks. That’s where flatbed shipping comes in. Whether you’re moving stone-look tiles in crates or oversized pallets of porcelain panels, FreightCenter arranges flatbed service that allows for easy side loading, unloading at job sites, and the secure transport of unconventional freight.
For custom or luxury porcelain tile deliveries, our specialized freight services include everything from liftgate service and appointment delivery to full white-glove handling. Need international shipping or high-value cargo insurance? We’ve got you covered with carriers trained in specialty freight and logistics pros who oversee it all.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Ready to Ship Porcelain Tiles the Right Way?
Porcelain tiles are delicate, heavy, and high-value, exactly the kind of freight that deserves expert handling. At FreightCenter, we don’t just quote your shipment and wish you luck. We step in as your dedicated shipping partner, connecting you with carriers that understand the care and coordination of tile freight demands.
From navigating freight classes and packaging to securing specialized carriers and delivery appointments, our team handles the complex stuff so you don’t have to. You’ll get personalized support, competitive rates, and a shipping strategy tailored to the size, weight, and sensitivity of your load.
We’ve helped thousands of shippers move porcelain tiles safely. You’re next.
Get a Free Quote or call (800) 716-7608 — let’s ship smarter, together.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Porcelain Tiles
Q. How are porcelain tiles packaged for shipping?
Porcelain tiles are typically packed in reinforced boxes or crates with foam spacers, edge protectors, and padding to prevent breakage. For bulk shipments, tiles are often palletized and shrink-wrapped to ensure stability during transit.
Q. Can I ship porcelain tiles via LTL freight?
Yes, LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight is a cost-effective method for shipping small to medium-sized tile shipments. FreightCenter partners with trusted LTL carriers who handle fragile freight with care and provide tracking throughout the delivery process.
Q. What’s the best shipping method for large porcelain tile orders?
Full Truckload (FTL) shipping is best for large or bulk tile shipments. It minimizes handling and provides a dedicated truck for your freight. FreightCenter offers competitive FTL options including dry van, flatbed, and temperature-controlled trailers.
Q. How much does it cost to ship porcelain tiles?
Q. Do porcelain tiles require special handling during shipping?
Yes, due to their fragility and weight, porcelain tiles require careful loading, unloading, and transport. FreightCenter works with carriers experienced in handling delicate freight and can help arrange specialized services if needed.
Q. How should I prepare porcelain tiles for shipment?
Wrap individual tiles or boxes in cushioning material, place them in reinforced boxes or crates, and secure them to pallets. Label the shipment as “Fragile” and “Do Not Stack.” FreightCenter can guide you through best practices for packaging.
Q. Are porcelain tiles insured during shipping?
Insurance is highly recommended when shipping porcelain tiles due to their value and fragility. FreightCenter can help you add insurance to your shipment to protect against potential loss or damage.
Q. Can I ship porcelain tiles internationally?
Yes, FreightCenter can coordinate international tile shipments via ocean or air freight. We’ll help you understand export requirements, packaging regulations, and customs documentation for seamless delivery.
Q. How long does it take to ship porcelain tiles?
Transit time depends on the destination, carrier, and service level. LTL shipments usually take 3–7 business days, while expedited services can reduce delivery time significantly. FreightCenter provides time estimates with each quote.
Q. Can I schedule a residential delivery for porcelain tiles?
Yes, but be sure to request residential delivery and liftgate service if needed. FreightCenter offers customizable delivery options to homes, retail stores, and job sites.
Q. Do I need a forklift to receive a shipment of porcelain tiles?
Not always. If the shipment is palletized and delivered to a commercial location with a dock, a forklift is helpful. If you’re receiving tiles at a residence or job site, FreightCenter can arrange liftgate delivery service.
Q. What should I do if my tile shipment arrives damaged?
Inspect the shipment upon arrival and document any visible damage. Take photos and note issues on the delivery receipt. FreightCenter will assist you in filing a claim and communicating with the carrier.
3 Surprising Facts About Shipping Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain Tile Is Denser and Heavier Than You Think
While porcelain and ceramic tiles may look similar, porcelain is denser, less porous, and up to 30% heavier than ceramic. This weight difference affects freight class, packaging needs, and even carrier selection. Misclassifying porcelain tiles can lead to costly reclassification fees and delays.
Tile Breakage Risk Increases With Improper Palletizing
Tiles stacked without cushioning or stretch wrap tension can suffer edge chipping or full breakage during transit. Even small vibrations during a cross-country haul can cause damage. That’s why FreightCenter helps shippers source foam-in-place, shrink-wrap, and banding solutions from packaging partners to reduce damage claims.
Tile Shipments Often Require "Top Load Only" Designation
Porcelain tile freight is highly susceptible to pressure damage. If another heavy pallet is stacked on top of a tile crate during transit, even perfectly packaged shipments can crack. Using a "Top Load Only" placard or shipping in stack-prohibited lanes is a trick that FreightCenter builds into your shipment planning—so your freight is protected from the top down.
