Whether it’s for business, to ship your products across the ocean, or for relocating for an exciting business venture in a different part of the world, one of the first things you’ll encounter in the beginning stages of preparation is the issue of crates. There are standards for international shipping crates that most people are not aware of. Unless you’re getting ready to ship a load of goods for the first time or make an international move, who even thinks about crates? In the international shipping industry, there are important standards that must be met.
Keeping Your Shipment Safe
If the international shipping crate is made out of wood, it will need to follow the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). These are simply a set of rules that were established in order to prevent spreading diseases or pests that can be found in the wood. It not only applies to crates, but to all the shipping materials pertaining to wood, or other plant-based materials. This includes crates, pallets, dunnages used for cushioning, and wooden drums. The goal is to stop the transfer of diseases or pasts from one country to another.
Crate Considerations
A reputable international shipping firm will take several steps to prevent any damage or mixups when preparing the shipping crates. A few of the points taken into consideration are:
- Meeting international standards for height and weight
- Preparation of legal paperwork
- Correct labeling of the crate’s contents
- Custom forms
- Protection from corrosive salt from seawater
- Adequate cushioning and support within the crate
- Stamps confirming adherence to IPPC rules
How It Works
The wood used for crating (or other international shipping uses) is put through a system of heat treatments or it can be fumigated. Whichever action is taken is to ensure that there are no insects living within the wood. When the shipment reaches the country of destination, the crates will be inspected. For any country participating in the IPPC standard, there must be a stamp documenting the treatment.
Measurements of Crates
It doesn’t matter the size of the objects you want to ship because crates are custom-made to accommodate any shipment. Whether it’s heavy industrial equipment or a complete office, a crate can be built to keep it safe throughout the journey. When moving a household of personal items, crates can be designed in such a way as to add cushioning that will restrict the movement of the items inside during shipping. Whether it’s a shipment of small items or large, a crate can be built according to the specifications.
Comparison Shopping
When preparing for shipping internationally, you can get bids from reputable companies. The type of crating used for your belongings or products or only one aspect of the price estimate, but an important one. To be confident that your items will arrive at their destination, pay close attention to the crating details. Professional shipping companies will readily provide these details.
