Shipping and Logistics

1.0 Overview of Services

1.1 Global Delivery Network

Industrial Stone MDG provides comprehensive shipping services to collectors worldwide. Operating from Antananarivo, Madagascar, we have established reliable logistics partnerships to ensure your specimens arrive safely regardless of destination.

1.2 Service Philosophy

Each specimen represents millions of years of geological history and deserves exceptional care during transit. Our shipping protocols prioritize security, protection, and reliability above all else. We understand that these are irreplaceable natural treasures, and we treat them accordingly.

1.3 Available Services

We offer the following shipping services:

• International Sea Freight (for large or heavy specimens)
• International Air Cargo (for expedited delivery)
• Express Courier Services (DHL, FedEx, UPS where available)
• Local Delivery within Madagascar
• Personal Pickup from our Antananarivo facility

2.0 International Shipping Methods

2.1 Sea Freight

Recommended for: Large specimens, bulk orders, and heavy items where transit time is not critical.

Sea freight is the most economical option for substantial pieces such as large petrified wood slabs, complete fossil assemblages, and multi-piece collections. Specimens are professionally crated and palletized for container shipping.

• Transit Time: 4-8 weeks depending on destination port
• Minimum Recommended Weight: 50 kg
• Port Coverage: All major international ports
• Consolidation: Available for smaller shipments

2.2 Air Cargo

Recommended for: Medium-sized specimens, time-sensitive orders, and valuable pieces requiring expedited delivery.

Air cargo provides faster transit times while maintaining the security and documentation required for mineral exports. All air shipments are fully insured and trackable.

• Transit Time: 5-14 business days
• Weight Limits: Up to 500 kg per shipment
• Airport Coverage: All major international airports
• Handling: Specialized fragile cargo protocols

2.3 Express Courier

Recommended for: Smaller specimens, urgent deliveries, and residential addresses.

Express courier services offer door-to-door delivery with full tracking and signature confirmation. Service availability varies by destination.

• Transit Time: 3-7 business days
• Weight Limits: Up to 30 kg per package
• Carriers: DHL, FedEx, UPS (availability varies)
• Tracking: Real-time tracking with delivery notification

3.0 Local Delivery (Madagascar)

3.1 Antananarivo Area

Direct delivery within the greater Antananarivo area can be arranged for all specimen sizes. Our team will coordinate a convenient delivery time and location.

3.2 Regional Delivery

Delivery to other major cities in Madagascar (Toamasina, Mahajanga, Toliara, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa) is available through our local logistics network. Transit times vary based on distance and road conditions.

3.3 Personal Pickup

Collectors are welcome to arrange personal pickup from our Antananarivo facility. This option eliminates shipping costs and allows you to inspect your specimen in person before taking possession. Please contact us at least 48 hours in advance to schedule an appointment.

4.0 Packaging and Handling Standards

4.1 Professional Packaging Protocol

Every specimen is packaged according to professional museum and gallery standards. Our packaging process is designed to protect against impact, vibration, moisture, and temperature fluctuations during transit.

4.2 Packaging Materials

Our standard packaging includes:

• Primary Protection: Acid-free tissue paper and foam cushioning in direct contact with the specimen
• Secondary Protection: Custom-fitted foam inserts or corrugated cardboard supports
• Outer Container: Double-walled corrugated boxes or custom wooden crates for larger pieces
• Moisture Barrier: Sealed plastic wrap or bags for humidity protection
• Fragile Indicators: Clear "FRAGILE" and "THIS SIDE UP" labeling

4.3 Custom Crating

Large or particularly valuable specimens are packaged in custom-built wooden crates. Crating includes internal bracing, shock-absorbing materials, and hardware-free internal surfaces to prevent damage.

4.4 Packaging Costs

Standard packaging materials are included in the shipping quote. Custom crating for oversized or high-value specimens may incur additional charges, which will be communicated before shipment.

5.0 Customs and Import Regulations

5.1 Export Documentation

Industrial Stone MDG handles all Madagascar export documentation and compliance requirements. Each international shipment includes:

• Commercial Invoice with detailed specimen descriptions
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Mining Authority Export Permit (where applicable)
• Phytosanitary Certificate (if required by destination)

5.2 Import Responsibilities

The Collector is solely responsible for all import duties, taxes, customs fees, and any other charges imposed by the destination country. Import regulations vary significantly by country, and it is the Collector's responsibility to understand applicable requirements before placing an order.

5.3 Customs Clearance

In most cases, customs clearance is handled by the carrier or freight forwarder. For sea freight shipments, we can recommend customs brokers at major ports. Additional fees may apply for brokerage services.

5.4 Restricted Destinations

We may be unable to ship to certain destinations due to export restrictions, carrier limitations, or ongoing geopolitical situations. Please contact us to confirm shipping availability to your destination before placing an order.

6.0 Shipping Insurance

6.1 Insurance Recommendation

We strongly recommend purchasing shipping insurance for all orders. While we take every precaution in packaging and carrier selection, transit inherently involves risk beyond our control.

6.2 Insurance Options

• Carrier Insurance: Basic coverage provided by the shipping carrier, typically limited to declared value or weight-based calculations.
• Third-Party Insurance: Comprehensive coverage through specialized fine art and collectibles insurers, offering full declared value protection.
• Collector's Own Insurance: Some collectors prefer to extend their existing collection insurance to cover incoming shipments.

6.3 Claims Process

In the event of shipping damage, immediately document the damage with photographs before unpacking completely. Retain all packaging materials for inspection. Notify Industrial Stone MDG within 48 hours of delivery to initiate the claims process.

6.4 Liability Without Insurance

If insurance is declined, Industrial Stone MDG shall not be liable for damage, loss, or theft occurring during transit. By declining insurance, the Collector assumes all risk of loss once the shipment is transferred to the carrier.

7.0 Delivery Timeline and Tracking

7.1 Processing Time

After payment verification, orders are processed within 3-5 business days. This includes final inspection, photography for documentation, packaging, and export documentation preparation. Large or complex orders may require additional processing time.

7.2 Estimated Transit Times

Transit times vary by shipping method and destination:

• Express Courier: 3-7 business days
• Air Cargo: 5-14 business days
• Sea Freight: 4-8 weeks

Note: These are estimates only. Actual transit times may vary due to carrier schedules, customs processing, weather, and other factors beyond our control.

7.3 Tracking Information

Tracking information will be provided via email once your shipment is dispatched. For courier shipments, real-time tracking is available through the carrier's website. For air and sea freight, we will provide updates on major milestones (departure, arrival at destination port, customs clearance).

7.4 Delivery Delays

Industrial Stone MDG is not responsible for delivery delays caused by carriers, customs authorities, weather conditions, natural disasters, or other circumstances beyond our control. Delivery estimates are not guarantees.

8.0 Shipping Costs and Payment

8.1 Pricing Structure

Shipping costs are calculated separately from specimen prices and depend on:

• Destination country and delivery address
• Specimen weight and dimensions
• Selected shipping method
• Insurance requirements
• Special handling or crating needs

8.2 Shipping Quote

A detailed shipping quote will be provided after your reservation is confirmed. The quote will itemize freight charges, packaging costs, insurance (if selected), and any applicable fuel surcharges or handling fees.

8.3 Payment for Shipping

Shipping costs must be paid in full before dispatch. Payment can be made via the same methods accepted for specimen purchases (bank transfer, mobile money, or credit card where available).

8.4 Additional Charges

The following charges are the Collector's responsibility and are not included in shipping quotes:

• Import duties and taxes
• Customs brokerage fees
• Storage charges at ports or airports
• Re-delivery or address correction fees
• Any charges imposed by the destination country

9.0 Contact and Support

9.1 Shipping Inquiries

For questions about shipping options, quotes, or the status of your shipment, please contact our logistics team:

• Email: industrialstone.mdg3@gmail.com
• WhatsApp: +261 34 78 500 72
• Response Time: Within 24-48 hours

9.2 Shipping Consultation

For large or complex shipments, we recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss the best shipping strategy for your specific needs. We can advise on the most cost-effective methods, consolidated shipping options, and import considerations for your destination.

9.3 Emergency Contact

For urgent matters regarding shipments in transit (damaged goods, customs holds, delivery issues), please contact us immediately via WhatsApp for the fastest response.