Every shipping method has it advantages and disadvantages, so does international sea shipping. But by knowing how to use it, sea shipping will become your main and most cost-efficient shipping method. Both cargo owners and shippers need to find a way to protect the cargo from damage during the trip. Here, we are giving you some tips for keeping your cargo safe by using pallets.
TIP NO. 1 – STACKING SIZES &STANDARD PALLETS
When you are using pallets, shipping boxes will be stacked on them to fit within proper dimensions. The boxes can be stacked up to 5 feet high, but within 60 inches in total.
The cargo will be ready and safe to transport when it is wrapped with film on the pallets. And keep it in mind that, the standard size of US pallet has the following dimensions: 1.2×1.0x0.15 meter or 8″x 40″x 6″.
There are different sizes of pallet in international sea shipping industry, but you should know that only certain sizes of pallets can be handles by forklifts. Make sure the size of pallets you use for cargo can be work with forklifts. And this is why you should use standard size pallets for your cargo when possible,
When your pallets exceed the dimensions that we previously mentioned or the limits of weight, they might need special approval before getting shipped.
TIP NO. 2 – CHECK SHIPPING REGULATIONS
Please know that there are restrictions for wooden packing in some countries, so make sure that the pallets you are using do not violate the restrictions. This will keep you away from many troubles.
TIP No. 3 – PROPERLY LABELed and
PALLETIZED BOXES
Beside palletizing, you should also label every box, this will help you recognize your cargo when pallet break down and cargo gets spilled.
When you are labeling the cargo, remember to label on both side of the pallet including the contact information of the consignee and ocean carrier’s booking number. But you should not write anything mentioning commodity on your shipping boxes.
TIP NO. 4 – EVENLY and Squarely STACK BOXES
Always remember to stack the boxes squarely and evenly from corner to corner, when you are loading and stacking the cargo. And do not let the boxes hang from the pallets, or your will have great trouble getting them in position.
TIP NO. 5 – REINFORCE BOXES
You need to reinforce your boxes if they are not strong enough during the transport. Use the film, fiberboard and something else that can protect them from damage.
TIP NO. 6 – PROTECT YOUR CARGO FROM THE ELEMENTS
During the transport, your cargo sometimes will be outside the warehouse or shipping containers, if you wrap the pallets with plastic film, it will help you protect your shipments from elements such as rain.
