Shipping a product globally places many demands on a package. When deciding on an export crate keep in mind:
- Breakage
- Weight
- Moisture
- Pilferage
Most general cargo is carried in containers, but some is shipped in breakbulk. Besides the normal handling encountered in domestic transportation, a breakbulk shipment moving by ocean freight may be loaded aboard vessels in a net or by a sling, conveyor, chute or other method, putting added strain on the package. In ship's hold, goods may be stacked on top of one another or come into violent contact with other goods during the voyage.
Moisture is a constant problem because cargo is subject to condensation even in the hold of a ship equipped with air conditioning and a dehumidifier. Keep in mind the cargo may also be unloaded in the rain. Not to be forgotten is the unfortunate events such as theft and pilferage.
When exporting a product keep in mind the following:
- Strong containers, sealed and fully filled if possible
- Even distribution of weight regardless of size
- If shipped via ocean, if possible pack goods on pallet(s)
- Packages and packing fillers should be moisture resistant
- To avoid theft avoid putting a brand name on packaging and consider the use of seals, strapping and shrink wrapping
Some helpful packing tips for those new to exporting overseas or in bulk:
1. If you don't have a container for your shipment one can be obtained from your carrier or private leasing
2. Air shipments require less heavy packing than ocean shipments, in many instances standard domestic packing will be adequate
3. Transportation cost are primarily determined by weight so try to make packing and reinforcements as weight conscious as possible.
4. If entering a new market, be sure to get information from buyer, government agency, freight forwarder etc labeling requirements such as shipper's mark, country of origin, handling marks etc.