Best tips to prepare your cargo to be shipped safely 29^th November 2021

Correct packaging is the most crucial part to ensure your package arrives at its destination in the best condition. As of today, over 90% of global cargo shipping takes place via the waterways. Goods are damaged every day as a result of poor packaging and lack of shipping knowledge.

Cargo comes in various sizes and forms, and there is more careful packaging required for damage-free shipping. It might feel overwhelming, but we can help you choose the best packaging for your products. With this guide, you'll be able to secure your items as they go through the challenging shipping procedure.

1. Identify the nature of the cargo:
Foremost, separate the delicate and sturdy items from each other. Make sure you bubble wrap all the fragile items adequately before putting them into the package. If the shipment involves liquid items, keep them in a leak-proof and spill-proof container. Leave the sturdy items for the last; they require the least amount of cushioning among all.

2. Go for heavy-duty boxes:
Protect your cargo with as much coverage as possible by using robust, thick boxes that will not burst open during shipment. Thick boxes offer an additional degree of protection not present in standard shipment boxes. If you're not satisfied with one box, add another box to make it two times stronger by layering your package.

3. Choosing the proper cushioning:
A proper cushion will protect your cargo against shock, vibration, dents, or distortion. Cushioning comes in various forms such as paper filling, corrugated board pads, foam & bubble wrap, to name a few. Keep in mind these few pointers while selecting the cushioning material:

• Cargo sensitivity

• Transport-related stressors

• The cushioning material's stress range

*Pro-tip: After packing the box, give it a firm shake. If you hear articles are moving around inside the box, your package needs extra cushioning.

4. Tape the box well:
Cover your package with strong tapes that can hold all the folded ends of the box in place and prevent it from opening up during the shipping process.

5. Make your boxes water resistant:
Even if the shipping goes successful, unexpected wet conditions during loading and unloading at the docks could damage the cargo. Protect your boxes from such situations by shrink-wrapping them.

6. Label the boxes:
Proper labelling aids in the seamless operation of shipping. From sorting to timely delivery, label your package accurately. For example, if the box contains fragile items, mention it on the box with 'This side up' label to guide the carriers to keep the side of your box upwards.

7. Insure your cargo:
There is always the possibility that your package might get damaged during shipment. The carrier could be exempt from liability for cargo damage or loss under the law to worsen the situation. This is where marine insurance protects your package. If you insure the goods under marine insurance, it will protect them against all unavoidable losses during the shipping process.

As a shipper, you have various options for ensuring that your goods arrive at their destination in the best possible shape. Always select a reputable carrier, pack your cargo with the utmost care, offer detailed handling instructions and secure it with marine insurance so that your valuables get delivered unaltered.

Click HERE to know about the best marine insurance plans.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.