Packaging supplies and crating – Safety comes first

If you are planning to ship, if your business is affiliated with Global trade market, you need to be aware of the packaging methods. Standardization of goods packaging supplies has many benefits for your freight forwarding process. Let see how?

Do you really need freight cargo packaging?

How many methods are there?

How is the packaging of dangerous goods?

Can Topshipping help you?

Why is packaging necessary?

Packaging supplies is one of the most important steps of freight process. You may not pay attention to it before entering the process, but when it comes to keeping the product safety, its importance becomes clear. It protects your goods from damage caused by other goods, bad loading and accidents. In addition, it protects them against insect attack, moisture, natural hazards and gases.

Bad packaging leads to freight damage, expensive and time consuming process and additional fees. On the other hand, having the good one, results in keep the cargo safe, reduced costs, easy handling and storing and a hassle-free experience.

There are generally three types of it. The primary packaging that wraps around a product, like pencil box. Secondary packaging is a cover that includes several products like several pencil box. The third is used for transportation and storage.

Packaging for air cargo

In air freight, because there is less space between your goods and other shipments. Thus, you must avoid damage with right packaging. Use the one that is light yet sturdy to reduce air freight costs. Also do not use pallets as they take up a lot of space.

Avoid unnecessary packaging that affects the volume and weight of the product. Make sure the supplier uses the smallest ones.

Marks on it should be applied with waterproof ink to three surfaces of each package. Cautionary markings should be in English, the language of the destination country and the international graphic-handling symbol.

Packaging supplies for sea cargo

In sea freight, there is more space between the goods. Thus, you do not have restrictions on the use of any kind of it. But for safety and cost-effectiveness, you need to do the right packaging.

Be sure to avoid using brand label or any flashy logos that attracts attention and shows the value of the product on the packaging. Because the possibility of piracy at sea is much higher than other freight methods.

You can also use the standardization in the primary packaging of your product. Get help from an expert to design an attractive, lightweight yet strong and durable package, for you. This will reduce its cost.

If your shipment is liquid, do not fill the entire container. Because its volume may change with changing temperature and air pressure.

Types of packaging

Here are some methods of packaging supplies:

Card board boxes

This method is very cheap and light. But there are conditions for using it:

• Weight limit
• Severe weather conditions damage it.
• The type of freight forwarding
• Packaging regulations of the origin and destination country

Card board boxes also have different types, such as:

Corrugated carton

It is recyclable and cheap. It is also suitable for books, food, clothing, a large bulk, etc.

Double-walled corrugated carton

This method is suitable for packing large goods such as furniture.

Double carton 

It is mostly used for fragile products such as glass and porcelain.

For added safety, wrap the good in bubble wraps first.

Bagged cargo

This type only prevents the cargo from being scattered. Bagged cargo is suitable for fertilizers, dried fruits, cereals, rice, corn, sugar, etc.

Wooden cases

Because it is made of wood, it has a higher price. But it is resistant to the damage of other goods.

Wooden crates

This packaging is been used for large cars. It is usually suitable for ease of loading and arranging.

Steel drums

It is a good option for export.

Bales

It is vulnerable to water damage. Thus, not recommended for valuable goods.

Palatalizing

This method is most common for LTL. It also has 6 sizes: (Sizes are in inches.)

• 1016*1219 mm (40*48) North America
• 1000*1200 mm Europe, Asia
• 1165*1165 mm Australia
• 1067*1067 mm (42*42) Worldwide
• 1100*1100 mm (43*43) Asia
• 800*1200 mm Europe

Before boxing, first glue your goods together with industrial strength plastic wrap, then attach the cargo to the pallet with it. For fragile items, wrap them in newspaper, bubble wrap or packing peanuts before boxing. But be careful! Some fulfillment centers, like Amazon FBA warehouse, won’t let you use packing peanuts

It is also better for liquid goods to be below solid goods and light goods above heavy goods.

When you receive the desired packaging, you or your freight forwarder company should check it. Make sure of be empty, clean and without holes. The floorboard is intact and the locks are safe.

Packaging of dangerous goods

Dangerous freight goods include Oxidizing substances, Organic peroxides, Toxic, infectious substances, Corrosives, etc. The packaging of them is very sensitive because damage to them often has bad consequences. Depending on the type of goods and the type of freight forwarding, it has different rules. Also, it should be according to IATA, ADR, IMDG  and DOT standards.

Packaging and Topshipping

Have you realized the importance and complexity of your cargo packaging so far? If you make the slightest mistake, you will lose both money and time. You can get help from a freight forwarder company to maintain the safety and value of your goods from the beginning to the end of the freight forwarding process.

You need help? We’re here. Topshipping, with its experience in carrying different goods, can provide you with the best packaging method. We offer the most suitable and cost-effective one, depending on the size and type of your cargo. Don’t worry! We are on your side and guarantee the safety and security of your goods.

Freight insurance is also a way to protect your money and goods. It acts like an invisible coating. But be aware that if there is an accident, and the reason is bad packaging supplies, the insurance will not pay for compensate.