The logistics of marble: DACHSER supports Argentine marble importers with comprehensive logistics services
Maintaining supply chain fluidity with imports from Brazil key to meeting demand
From ancient Greek halls and temples to nowadays’ magnificent staircases and imposing ballrooms, marble has been used for over 5,000 years.
Given its unique aesthetics and ethereal beauty, marble is used in a wide range of applications including construction and decoration, statuary and monuments, furniture and others. While marble is hard and durable, it is also fragile and the transportation of marble requires extra special care in order for it to arrive in the best possible condition.
The handling of natural stone materials such as marble require great attention in its transportation journey from Brazil to Argentina. Improper logistics can risk its integrity as well as delay delivery times. With DACHSER Argentina’s logistics expertise, innovative solutions, and global network, we proudly serve our heavy cargo customers efficiently, transparently and seamlessly – enabling them to receive their shipments on-time, reliably and in optimal condition.
Eduardo Fernandes, Country Manager ASL Argentina at DACHSERAccording to a recent market report, the global natural stone and marble market was $57.48 billion (USD) in 2019 and is projected to reach $62.58 billion (USD) by 2027 with a forecasted 7.57% growth rate. Marble represents the fastest growing sector due to increased consumer demand for natural decorative materials. In fact, Argentina imports roughly $20 million (USD) annually with $1.7 million (USD) from Brazil, its largest import partner.
The supply chain of marble
Interestingly, marble is typically transported as one solid piece and special care and equipment must be utilized to ensure the slabs don’t crack during its journey to Argentina. As such, the entire supply chain for this type of natural material goes through several steps that must be carried out with precision. They include the following:
- Loading the slabs in special and properly equipped vehicles.
- Organizing the safest and in-compliant ground routes to the port; this type of oversized cargo can only be ground transported at night as stipulated by local regulations.
- Determining suitable crane equipment for transfer from flatbed truck to vessel.
- Selecting the proper shipping container appropriate for its bulkiness and heaviness.
- Choosing the type of ship that can handle this type of heavy cargo.
- And, establishing container allocation as heavy loads run the risk of disturbing the weight balance of the vessel.
Therefore, working with an experienced logistics provider such as DACHSER Argentina takes on even greater importance in order to reliably and safely deliver these types of oversized cargo shipments. With proven expertise in heavy cargo projects, DACHSER focuses attention to every detail of the entire marble supply chain, so customers are confident their cargo is secure and protected, today and in the future.
“Our customers throughout the globe rely on our keen understanding of the Argentinian import market, especially as it relates to heavy-lift project cargo. Our team of experts have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the challenges involved, and are here to help our customers at every step of the way,” added Mr. Fernandes.