Many companies and individuals use ocean freight as the main mode of transport when shipping goods long distances to overseas markets. This is because it is both an efficient and effective way of moving commodities that need to be delivered to far away clients and consumers. It is important if you are choosing cargo ships to transport your merchandise you have packed it properly to protect it from damage or theft.
Using pallets to secure and ship your goods is a good idea as they can help to make the shipping process more convenient and organized. There are transloading companies that can also help you with palletizing your product as they are very experienced in this element of the shipping process. Learning how to utilize pallets for your shipping needs is important. Here are a few tips to help you on your way.
- Stick to Standard Sizes
While the ocean freight industry does allow various sizes it may be easier and safer if you use pallets which are not too large or difficult for a forklift to work with. Also, if you also use standard box sizes they fit nicely onto the pallet while utilizing the space in the most effective manner. Sticking to what works is always a good idea when shipping.
- Label Pallets and Boxes
Of course we always hope for the best and assume our products will arrive at their intended destination in one piece, however accidents can happen and sometimes pallets break down and are damaged. This is why it is so important to ensure that not only the pallet but also every single box within it are labelled clearly and accurately. Do not describe what you are shipping but do make sure the delivery destination is clear.
- Wrap Pallets
One way to guarantee your pallets arrive safely and in one piece is to wrap them with something like shrink-wrap or another product made specifically for this purpose. This will aid in keeping your shipment in one piece and decrease the likelihood of product damage, theft or misplacement of goods along the way. There are businesses that specialize in this so searching them out and using their services is always a good idea.
- Protect Against the Elements
One drawback of using a cargo ship to move your product is that it will probably at some point in its journey be exposed to the outside elements. There are things you can do to counteract this and to make sure your merchandise weathers the storm. Covering the top of the pallet with a plastic film and wrapping it before transport improves the chances of a dry and undamaged palletized shipment arriving in one piece.
- Create Easily Stacked Pallets
When packing a cargo ship dock workers try to utilize as much space onboard to take the most merchandise as they can on each sailing. This means they stack pallets on top of one another to use every inch possible. If your pallet is not flat on top it may lead to product damage from the weight of other pallets stacked upon it. Though not always possible, taking the time to ensure a flat surface is ideal and much preferred.
- Pack Boxes Evenly
Not only is it key to create a flat surface on your pallet it is equally essential boxes within it are packed evenly and into a square. Again this helps with lessening damage as your pallet fits nicely into the other packages the cargo ship is taking. Any edges that jut out or are irregularly shaped can cause issues when dock workers are packing a ship. Of course there are some irregular shapes but try your best.
- Reinforce Pallet Contents
One of the key factors to having your goods arrive at their overseas destination intact is to work to create a pallet that does not get damaged easily. It is smart to reinforce the boxes making it up so they do not get crushed during transport. Some skillful packing can make a world of difference so putting something in between the packages such as plywood or fibreboard can add an extra layer of protection.
- Choosing Pallet Material
Some countries have restrictions when it comes to wooden pallets so check before sending your goods using this material. There may be regulations around the type of wood and whether it is treated and appropriately marked. Knowing this can stop headaches down the road. Plastic pallets are another option as they have fewer restrictions and are weather-resistant and less likely to split, rot or mildew.
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