Shipping is a daily operation for many businesses around the world. Because of this, it is critical that businesses go above and beyond to ensure their shipping runs as smoothly as possible.
Although shipping delays and complications are often caused by external factors, there are a few common mistakes businesses tend to make, particularly when they are just starting out.
Fortunately, there are ways to avoid these mistakes and minimise the chances of shipping disruptions from occurring.
Read on for three of the most common mistakes first time shippers make and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Form of Transport
There are many different types of transport businesses can choose from. These include sea, air, road, and rail. Determining which is best for you depends on a number of factors including what you are shipping, where you are shipping to and from, distance, frequency, goods volume, and time frame.
Choosing the wrong form of transport can be a costly and time-consuming mistake. To find out more about which is best for you, read our sea freight vs air freight blog.
2. Not Packaging Your Cargo Sufficiently
Not protecting your goods sufficiently during transit is another mistake many businesses make. Approximately 10% of all containerised goods are discarded due to moisture-related damage. Packaging your goods properly and protecting them from wind, rain, and temperature changes is therefore a must in minimising cargo damage.
The type of packaging you should use depends on the nature of your goods. For example, fragile items should be packed in such a way that minimises movement, perishable items need to be packaged in insulated containers, and moisture-sensitive cargo needs to be packaged in well-ventilated containers.
3. Not Labelling Your Cargo
Labelling goods correctly is also critical. It is your responsibility to ensure you clearly label fragile, temperature-sensitive, and dangerous goods. Failure to do so can result in cargo damage, heavy fines, and even shipping bans.
Make sure you follow all relevant regulations, guidelines, and appropriate precautions when preparing your goods for transportation.
How Can ISS Shipping Help First Time Shippers?
Although following the above tips will help you avoid shipping complications, your best bet in achieving a seamless shipping process is to call ISS Shipping. Our years of experience and relationships with logistics providers around the world allow us to streamline shipments, offer competitive rates, and ensure our customers always have the documentation and certification they need.
Get in touch with our team today for more information.
