Monday, August 20, 2012

Export Packaging Options



When shipping a product overseas, the exporter must be aware of packing, labeling, documentation, and insurance requirements. It is important that exporters ensure that the merchandise is:

1.     Packed correctly so that it arrives in good condition; using a good standard taping machine greatly helps with this requirement;

2.     Labeled correctly to ensure that the goods are handled properly and arrive on time at the right place;

3.     Documented correctly to meet U.S. and foreign government requirements, as well as proper collection standards; and

4.     Insured against damage, loss, pilferage and delay.

There are a variety of options on packaging goods for export. Such materials include but are not limited to: wood, paper, metal, plastic, glass and commonly used textiles.
The main types of export packaging are:

Loose or unpacked – is only normally only applied to transport of such goods as heavy vehicles. Making sure they are stowed securely is more important than adding a layer of protective packaging.

Boxes or crates – that are securely sealed by carton sealers are the commonly utilized option. They are often stacked on pallets and shrink-wrapped for stability. Less durability is required if goods are also containerized.

Drums - usually made of metal or plastic are what are regularly used for transporting liquids and powders or goods that need to be kept dry.

Wrapping - often used with goods stacked on pallets, wrapping - such as shrinkwrap or foil - both adds to stability and protects goods.

Pallets - allow smaller packing units such as boxes and cartons to be grouped together. They allow easy mechanical transporting, which eases the process of loading, unloading and warehousing.

These options are not mutually exclusive, so you may want or need to use more than one.

Many markets abroad have waste regulations that favor packaging which can be easily recycled or has a minimal impact on the environment when disposed of.  Exporters must comply with The Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations that aim to minimize the amount of waste packaging businesses generate and ensure that packaging can be reused, recovered or recycled. If a business handles more than 50 tons of packaging in a year, they must also comply with the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations

No comments:

Post a Comment