EXPORT PACKING

The type and nature of the export packing is influenced by factors such as:-

Kind of product
Use crates for large and heavy objects like machines, bags for powder like cement, plastic drums or containers for liquids like acetic acids, wooden cases for small and heavy items like nails, and bales for bulky materials like cotton.

Mode of transportation
Generally, air freight requires less packing than ocean and land freight, and containerized shipments require less packing than non-containerized shipments due to lower risks of loss or damage.

Ports of destination
In areas with higher incidence of loss or damage due to mishandling, theft and pilferage, the more and stronger packing is necessary.

Climatic conditions
Desiccants (drying agent) and/or special packing materials, such as waxed paper and laminated foil, may be required in areas with high moisture levels and for goods that are prone to sweating.

Customs duties and freight rates
Lighter and less packing material is preferred in cases where the specific duty or the freight rate is by weight basis.

Cost of packing materials
The exporter, being a manufacturer, may select the most economical materials and method of packing that can adequately protect the export goods.

Buyer's requirements
Buyers may specify the type of packing required, particularly in the OEM arrangements. If the buyer's demand for packing is 'too much' which adds to the export cost, the manufacturer may recommend suitable packing.

Master Export Packs

Corrugated carton (box)
The most widely used in export shipments. The corrugated carton can be double walled or triple walled, with a bursting strength of 250 PSI (pounds per square inch) or more. It can be strengthened with plastic straps or wooden framing. The carton is:

light ----- useful where the freight rate and customs duty is based on weight;
more resilient ----- cushions the contents against shock; and
economical ----- costs less than the wooden case or drum.

Wooden case (box)
It is commonly used for small, heavy items, for example hand tools, industrial cutting tools, and machine parts. It can stand up to rough handling and heavy stack loading without collapsing. The wooden case can be reinforced with steel wires (wirewound) or flat steel straps.

Wooden crate
It is usually used for large, heavy objects like machines. The crate can be fully sheathed for added protection against punctures and pinching effect of slings. The sling point and the center of gravity must be properly marked on the crate.

Drum or container
It is commonly used for liquid and powder, for example chemicals and colored cement. It comes in many sizes and can be made of plastic, steel or fiber.

Bag and sack
It is commonly used for powder and granular materials, for example cement, rice and plastic resins. It can be made of paper, plastic or jute (hessian).

Bale
It is usually used for bulky items that can be compressed, for example cotton. Tension bands are provided to hold the bale together.

Weight Limit of the Export Cartons and Wooden Cases
Limit the gross weight of cartons and wooden cases to 25-30 kgs. (50-60 lbs.). Heavy packages are more likely to sustain damage during handling at the destination.