Calculate what the order will cost by the time it reaches your warehouse: the stonework, packing, transport, import charges and local delivery. Ask which items are included in each quote. Use the same models, quantities and delivery destination so a lower factory price is not mistaken for a lower total cost.
The landed-cost formula
Landed cost = agreed goods value + export packing + origin charges + international freight + insurance + applicable customs charges + broker and port fees + destination transport + inspection or financing costs.
Which items are already included depends on the agreed Incoterm. Incoterms allocate selected costs and risks between seller and buyer; they do not determine product quality, payment security or customs classification.
Make sure each quote covers the same product
| Quotation input | Evidence to request |
|---|---|
| Material | Trade name, source or lot, approved sample and finish. |
| Dimensions | Signed shop drawing, piece count and unit tolerances agreed for the order. |
| Decoration | Lettering, carving, laser artwork, color fill and approvals. |
| Packing | Crate design, protection, labels, weights and wood-packaging compliance where applicable. |
| Commercial scope | Incoterm and named place, currency, quotation validity and exclusions. |
Check today’s freight and destination charges
Ask a freight forwarder for a dated route and equipment quotation using the estimated gross weight and volume. Ask the customs broker or importing authority to confirm the current classification, admissibility, duty treatment, fees and documentation for the destination. In the United States, consult current CBP import guidance and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule; do not reuse an old percentage from an article or previous shipment.
Destination costs can include terminal handling, examination, storage, demurrage, chassis, drayage, unloading and final delivery. Some are contingent rather than certain. Keep them in a separate risk allowance so the base comparison remains transparent.
Compare quotations on a common sheet
For a practical checklist, see our guide to comparing wholesale headstone quotes.
- Use one approved drawing and finish details.
- Convert every quotation to the same currency and Incoterm basis.
- Separate confirmed amounts from estimates and contingencies.
- Allocate shared shipment costs by a documented method such as weight, volume or piece.
- Run sensitivity cases for freight, exchange rate, delay and rejection risk.
- Record the date and source of every external cost.
Commercial checks before ordering
- Confirm what happens if the final drawing changes weight or packing.
- Confirm inspection timing and evidence before the payment milestone.
- Check whether insurance scope matches the cargo and risk transfer point.
- Avoid comparing a complete landed quotation with a factory-only price.
- Container capacity is calculated for each order using the actual piece dimensions, crate layout, gross weight and route limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the factory price of a granite monument from China?
It depends on the approved material, dimensions, finish, carving, quantity, packing and commercial terms. Request an itemized, dated quotation for the actual drawing.
What duty rate should a US importer use?
Confirm the current classification and treatment with the USITC schedule, CBP guidance and a qualified customs broker. Do not rely on a fixed rate copied from an older shipment.
How should buyers compare suppliers?
Compare identical specifications and total landed risk, including inspection, packing, logistics, customs and likely exception costs.
Sources and further reading
- ICC — Incoterms rules: Delivery responsibilities, costs and risks; Incoterms 2020 remains the current edition listed by ICC.
- USITC — Harmonized Tariff Information: Current U.S. tariff resources; this article does not assign a tariff code or duty rate.
Updated October 5, 2026. Check the current requirements for your destination and order.