SUPATH
International Air Freight Consultant
Introduction
Packaging is one of the key important factors, no matter what mode of transport is being used in freight forwarding. The importance is not only the safety of the contents that carries importance, but also regulations in place. The exporter and importer are concerned with the contents of the freight and the time involved, but both these factors are influenced by the type of packaging used to transport the freight.
Sturdiness and Resistance
Companies might pay attention to the sturdiness of the packaging and resistance to damaging factors, since the freight will go through various stages of handling. The two factors, however, should be weighed against the movement to which the goods will be subjected.
ISPM 15 and IPPC Logo
In international logistics, wooden packaging carries a special importance. That applies to filling material (called dunnage), as well. Goods in cartons can be consolidated on a pallet. If, however, the pallet is made of wood, it must conform to a regulation called ISPM 15. A wooden pallet that conforms to this regulation will carry the mandatory IPPC logo, which can be clearly seen on the side.
Heat and Methyl Bromide Treatments
The wood carrying an IPPC logo has been subjected to pest control treatment. Heat is used in one type and a chemical called methyl bromide is used in the other. The chemical treatment is not used in most of the countries because of the risk of environmental pollution.
What Could Wrong Packaging Result In?
In freight forwarding, the type of packaging used becomes a critical factor, because of two reasons. Weak material can cause damage and the wrong type of wood used will cause not only delay but also unnecessary cost. Packaging made of untreated wood will cause the freight to be confiscated and returned to the airport of destination at the shipper’s expenses.
Courtesy: http://internationalshippingusa.com/
Treatment Coding On Wood
The letter HT included in the IPPC logo on a wooden pallet shows the wood has been subject to heat . If, instead, the letters MB appear in it, the wood has undergone Methyl Bromide treatment. Only old wooden pallets or crates will carry the MB sign as the process has been scrapped in most of the countries.
Conclusion
Since, almost all the countries are particular about the right packaging material, failing to pay attention to this factor might cause unwanted expenses. Using the wrong packaging may not cause problem in the country of departure. However, on arrival at the airport of destination, the freight might be subject to inspection and that is when you are in for a shock.
Last but not the least, think about insurance. Freight moved by air will be processed fast and handling in a warehouse will be quick raising the chances of possible damage. An insurance cover may be important.
There are many factors to be considered when moving your freight to a foreign destination. Customs formalities and the right packaging are only some of the points. Let the professionals deal with these.
Questions?
References
ULINE – Shipping Boxes, Shipping Supplies, Packaging Materials …
Uline stocks over 29000 shipping boxes, packing materials and mailing supplies. Same day shipping for cardboard shipping boxes, plastic bags, janitorial, retail …
Packaging & Food Contact Substances (FCS)
Nov 26, 2014 … Links to Guidance, Inventories, and Tables of Food Contact Substances (PCS) and other information related to packaging.
Large or odd-shaped items, such as golf clubs or surf boards, often require specialized packaging. The UPS Store® locations offer custom handling and packing …
Please check ISPM15 (ISPM 15) about checklist points and also packaging with IPPC logo