Easy Guide to Tile Buying and Pricing
Introduction
If you’re new to the tile business, understanding prices can be tricky, especially when sourcing directly from factories like Morbi. This guide breaks down tile costs in a simple way to help you make smart buying decisions.
How to Calculate Tile Cost
Tile Pricing Terms
There are two common pricing methods:
- Ex-factory: Price at the factory (does not include GST or transport).
- FOR (Free-On-Road): Includes delivery to your location (e.g., FOR Jaipur, FOR Coimbatore).
Most manufacturers quote ex-factory prices, so you’ll need to add taxes and transport costs.
Cost Breakdown
1. Factory Price (Ex-factory)
This is the base price per box or per square foot. Example: A Jaipur dealer orders 300x600mm wall tiles at ₹195 per box (5 tiles per box).
2. GST (Tax)
GST on tiles is 18%.
3. Transport Cost
Transport costs depend on distance. Example: Transport from Morbi to Jaipur costs ₹1,300 per tonne.
- One box of 300×600mm tiles weighs 14.5 kg.
- A tonne (1,000 kg) carries 69 boxes.
- Transport cost per box = ₹1,300 ÷ 69 = ₹18.85.
Final Price Calculation
- Factory price: ₹195
- GST (18%): ₹35.1
- Transport cost: ₹18.85
- Total cost per box: ₹248.95 (landed price in Jaipur).
Things to Remember:
- Different tile sizes have different weights.
- Check who arranges transit insurance (factory or you).
- If you arrange your own transport, get insurance.
How Much to Order
Add 10% extra for:
- Breakage during transport.
- Cutting mistakes during installation.
- Future replacements.
Domestic Tile Prices (Ex-factory)
Wall Tiles
- 200×300mm: ₹90/box (12 tiles, covers 7.75 sq ft).
- 300×450mm: ₹130/box (6 tiles, covers 8.72 sq ft).
- 300×600mm: ₹195/box (5 tiles, covers 9.68 sq ft).
Floor Tiles
- 300×300mm: ₹120/box (10 tiles, covers 9.68 sq ft).
- 400×400mm: ₹140-₹145/box (6 tiles, covers 10.33 sq ft).
- 600×600mm: ₹255/box (4 tiles, covers 15.5 sq ft).
Vitrified Tiles (Per Square Foot Pricing)
- 600×600mm: ₹25/sq ft (15.5 sq ft per box).
- 600×1200mm: ₹26/sq ft (15.5 sq ft per box).
- Double Charge 600×600mm: ₹28/sq ft.
- Soluble Salt: ₹17.5-₹18.5/sq ft (cheapest vitrified tile type).
Export Prices (FOB Mundra Port, US$ per sq m)
Ceramic Tiles
| Size | Price ($/sq m) |
|---|---|
| 20×30 cm | $1.8 |
| 30×60 cm | $1.8 |
| 30×30 cm | $1.8 |
| 40×40 cm | $1.8 |
| 60×60 cm | $1.8 |
Vitrified Tiles
| Size | Price ($/sq m) |
|---|---|
| 60×60 cm SS | $3.5 |
| 60×60 cm PGVT | $3.5 |
| 60×120 cm PGVT | $3.5 |
Large Slab Tiles
| Size | Price ($/sq m) |
|---|---|
| 80×160 cm | $9.7 |
| 120×240 cm | $9.7 |
FAQs
What affects tile price?
- Type: Ceramic or vitrified.
- Size: Larger tiles often cost more.
- Finish: Glossy, matte, metallic, or special designs cost extra.
- Brand: Big brands charge more.
Are tiles priced per box or per square foot?
- Wall tiles: Priced per box (e.g., ₹150/box).
- Vitrified tiles: Priced per square foot (e.g., ₹20/sq ft).
Prices exclude GST, transport, and unloading costs.
Best transport for South Indian buyers?
Coastal cargo is cheaper:
- Tiles are packed in containers and shipped from Mundra to Chennai, Cochin, Mumbai, etc.
- Saves on long-distance road transport.
- Pallet packing reduces breakage.
Should I buy from a dealer or factory?
- For home renovation: Buy from a local dealer for easy access to extra tiles.
- For small projects: Local suppliers offer fast delivery.
- For large projects: Direct factory purchase saves money.
What is the GST rate on tiles?
18% GST on all ceramic and vitrified tiles.
Note: GST does not apply to exports.