Crates, Bundles & Pallets: Packing Systems for Natural Stone

Before Turkish marble, travertine, limestone, granite and onyx reach construction sites, they pass through carefully designed packing systems. Crates, bundles and pallets protect stone against vibration, impact and moisture during export shipping. Because natural stone is heavy and fragile, proper packing is just as important as proper selection.

Below is an overview of how Turkish stone factories prepare materials for safe international delivery, whether you are importing slabs, tiles, cut-to-size panels or exterior paving stones.

1. Wooden Crates for Tiles

Tiles—whether marble, travertine or limestone—are first boxed, then placed into strong wooden crates. These crates are reinforced with nails, steel straps and support beams to prevent movement.

• Ideal for 10–30 mm thick tiles
• Each box is protected with foam or cardboard separators
• Crates allow safe forklift handling and container stacking
• Common for indoor flooring and wall cladding orders

2. Bundles for Slabs

Slabs of Turkish marble, onyx and granite are grouped into bundles using wooden spacers, plastic edge protectors and steel straps.

• Slabs are arranged vertically on wooden supports
• Felt separators prevent scratches on polished surfaces
• Bundles are forklift-friendly and easy to load into A-frames
• Used for large-format materials such as lobby flooring or countertops

3. Pallets for Paving Stones

Heavy-duty stones such as basalt and andesite are typically packed on robust pallets designed for outdoor and streetscape products.

• Used for cobblestones, kerbs, split-face panels and exterior tiles
• Pallets are strengthened with straps and corner guards
• Perfect for landscape and municipal projects

4. Why Packing Systems Matter

Proper packing minimizes breakage, reduces insurance claims and ensures deliveries arrive exactly as specified. Whether slabs or tiles, the packing method directly influences the condition of the stone upon arrival.

5. Related Articles

• Container Loading Methods for Slabs and Tiles
• Moisture-Sensitive Stones and Container Ventilation
• Step-by-Step Overview of Exporting Turkish Marble