FAQ B2B – Importing Brazilian Slate

How to import Brazilian slate?

Importing Brazilian slate is simple. Minas Slate ships directly from Brazil in full container loads (FCL). If required we help to arrange shipping direct with shipping line (after you approve the value of freight quote). We provide all export documents: Proforma Invoice, Packing List, Commercial Invoice , Bill of Lading, Origin certificate (if required). For each container we also provide images of stuffed container and positioning / fixing of crates inside.

What is the MOQ for slate containers?

The minimum order is 1 x 20ft container, about 27 tons of cargo

• Slate tiles: calibrated 1 cm ~950~970 m2/container

• Roofing slate: standard 5~7mm thick ~1700 m2 /container , heavy 7~9 mm thick - 1300 m2/container

• Paving slate slabs: calibrated 2 cm ~480 m2/container

• for other MOQ - contact us, we ship also mix containers (any mix of slate products per container)

​What is the best packaging for slate export?

Minas Slate packs all products in ISPM-15 fumigated wooden crates or bundles, protected with plastic lining and reinforced strapping. Tiles can be packed in cardboard boxes inside crates, and larger slabs use ski legs (“macho-fêmea”) for stability. This ensures safe, damage-free container shipments worldwide.

What Incoterms do you offer (FOB, CIF, etc.)?

Minas Slate exports mainly under FOB Rio de Janeiro Port, Brazil, handling loading and documentation at origin. By request, we can also arrange direct international shipments and offer competitive freight rates through leading global shipping lines. This flexibility ensures secure container handling and cost-efficient logistics for importers and wholesalers worldwide.

Can I order mixed slate products in one container?

Yes. Minas Slate allows you to combine different slate products in one FCL container, including tiles, roofing, paving, facades, and cut-to-size pieces. This flexible option helps importers and wholesalers optimize container loads, reduce costs, and source all products direct from our factory and partner quarries in Brazil.

​Can I request specific thickness tolerances for slate tiles?

Minas Slate produces tiles in two options:

• Calibrated tiles – machine-processed for exact thickness and uniformity, ideal for large flooring projects and precise installations.

• Natural split tiles (uncalibrated) – with natural variation in thickness, maintaining the authentic look and feel of slate.

Importers can request calibrated or natural split, depending on project requirements.

How long does international shipping take?

• USA East Coast: ~15~20 days

• Europe: ~18~25 days

• Canada: ~25~30 days

• Australia: ~40~50 days

• Russia: ~25~35 days

Is Brazilian slate suitable for outdoor use in cold climates?

​Yes, Brazilian slate is highly durable and frost-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor applications even in cold and freeze-thaw climates such as Canada, USA, and Northern Europe. Its low water absorption prevents cracking or damage under freezing conditions. Minas Slate supplies paving, roofing, and facade tiles that perform reliably in demanding environments worldwide.

Do you offer express or partial container shipments?

Minas Slate does not offer LCL (less than container load) shipments. Slate is a heavy material, and partial loads involve high handling and freight costs, making them uneconomical. To ensure the best value for both exporter and importer, we supply only full container loads (FCL), guaranteeing cost efficiency and secure transport.

💡 Tip: Importers can mix different slate products in one FCL to optimize container space and reduce overall costs.

Do you supply custom sizes and shapes?

Yes, Minas Slate specializes in cut-to-size production. We manufacture custom stairs, window sills, countertops, fireplaces, wall caps, geometric tile designs such as hexagon, diamond, and herringbone, and even slate sinks. Dimensions can be adapted to meet architectural or design requirements.

How many square meters of slate fit in one container?

• Slate tiles: calibrated 1 cm ~950~970 m2/container

• Roofing slate: standard 5~7mm thick ~1700 m2 /container , heavy 7~9 mm thick - 1300 m2/container

• Paving slate slabs: calibrated 2 cm ~480 m2/container

• for other MOQ - contact us, we ship also mix containers (any mix of slate products per container)

Do you provide samples before ordering?

Yes, we can supply slate samples upon request so importers, architects, and distributors can verify color, border finish, and quality. Small courier shipments are arranged at the buyer’s cost. This helps ensure confidence before confirming a full container order.

What payment terms do you offer?

Minas Slate typically works with 50% advance payment and 50% upon copy of the Bill of Lading (BL) to secure production and export logistics. For long-term partners or large-volume importers, we may discuss flexible arrangements. All payments are handled via international bank transfer (SWIFT) for security and traceability.