Less than container load (LCL) shipments refer to shipments that involve the sharing of containers with other shippers.

Since you don’t know what type of cargo will be packed with your cargo in LCL shipments, you should pack your goods in such a way that will minimise the occurrence of damage to your products and to your container-mates’ products. To do this, follow the following tips.

1. Use Strong and Sturdy Boxes

Packaging your goods in strong and sturdy boxes will prevent breakage during the handling and transport processes.

2. Use Double-Walled Boxes

Double walled boxes are simply heavy-duty cardboard boxes created with two layers of stacked corrugated cardboard. They are commonly used for transportation when added protection is necessary.

These boxes are strong enough to be stacked and will provide the best protection for your goods.

3. Tape-Up!

Unless you are shipping via reefer container, the container your goods are shipped in will go through extreme temperature changes. You should therefore ensure your products are taped sufficiently with good-quality tape to prevent your cargo from being damaged as a result of changes in temperature and humidity.

Lesser quality tape has a tendency to lose its ‘stickiness’ during transit, thus increasing the chances of your boxes collapsing.

4. Think About Your Wrapping

When wrapping your cargo, wrap in black shrink wrap to conceal the nature of your cargo (in case somebody nearby has the urge to steal it).

Wrap tightly and from bottom to top to avoid movement during transit.

5. Always Label Your Cargo

Label your cargo clearly and as required for the type of cargo you are sending. If your cargo is fragile or top load only, clearly mark these details on the packaging.

Doing this minimises the risk of your cargo being handled incorrectly, and ultimately reduces the chance of your cargo being damaged.

It will also prevent your cargo from being mixed up with your container-mates’ cargo when unloading and distributing.

Following these tips will help protect your LCL cargo during its transit.

If you have any additional questions or want to know what shipping method is best for you, get in touch with ISS today!