Choosing the Packing for your Cargo

Choosing the Packing for your Cargo

The condition of your cargo during transport is heavily reliant on how well you pack it into the boxes or crates.  The type of packing you choose will also be based on the goods you are dispatching, the mode of transport and the condition you want to receive it at the destination point.  The type and also the nature of the packing for your cargo is based on a few factors.  These include the type of product(s), the mode of transportation for dispatching your cargo, the route and the final destination, the climatic conditions, the customs duties and the freight rates, the cost of the materials for packing for your cargo, and the pallets.

The type of product will mean you need to choose the packing for your cargo accordingly as size and weight and nature will play a factor. Large and heavier object are usually shipped and packaged in crates, whereas you may choose the likes of wooden cases or cardboard boxes for small to heavy cargo items. Whilst these are ideal for containerisation options, you may choose to use bags for the likes of powder products (cement), plastic drums or containers for liquid products such as oil, or bales for bulkier products such as cotton.  Some products such as electronics are always best packed with moulded packing materials which are then placed into the boxes. If you do not possess the original moulds, then using packing foam would be best to ensure that your electronics do not move around during transport and does not affect the stability of the exterior packing of your cargo.

The mode of transportation, that is, whether its air freight or sea freight, may also determine the amount of packing for you cargo that is needed. Air freight requires less, whereas containerised shipments will require even less than non- containerised cargo.

The route of your shipment and the final destination will also play a factor in how you go about choosing the packing for your cargo. If it’s a high risk destination, it’s always better to pack diligently to avoid mishandling and pilfering. Consider the distance and the transfers.

Climatic conditions are also important when choosing packing for your cargo. High humidity areas can sometimes affect the integrity of your cargo and not to mention the working conditions. Thus often, little bags of silica are packed with the cargo.

If the customs or freight rates are based on the weight of the cargo, then less packing will be best for cost effectiveness. Opt for lightweight packing materials to ensure proper packing without the added weight increase.

Packing materials are an added charge and based on your requirement, you need to purchase those separately. Choose from our shipping boxes and crates, and inquire with us to find out what other packing materials are ideal packing for you cargo.