How to Pack Shipping Containers

Need to pack a shipping container for a long-distance move or ocean transit? Filling something as large as a commercial storage container with household items might seem impossible. Still, with the right tools and planning, it's pretty straightforward.

Shipping containers are large metal boxes that transport goods from one place to another. They are usually loaded onto trucks at their origin and unloaded at their destination.

You'll probably need a shipping container if you want to ship large numbers of goods long distances.

What makes packing a shipping container tricky is that it has to be done carefully and efficiently to maximize space and minimize damage.

Luckily, there's plenty of information available on how to fill storage containers for long-range shipping. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to packing a shipping container.

Critical Considerations for Packing Shipping Containers

Shipping containers are designed to be stacked one upon another, so they can be easily loaded onto ships or trucks. For example, a standard 40-foot container has about 1,800 cubic feet.

If you have especially large or expensive cargo to ship, you may want to consider buying more than one container. This way, you won't lose everything if one gets damaged during transit.

You will also need to ensure that your container's contents fit within its dimensions. For example, if you're sending an item with a length greater than 30 inches, you'll need to buy a larger container.

When packing a shipping container, the most important thing is to keep all the items in the same order as they appear on the box. You don't want to end up having to sort through everything after unpacking.

The best way to do this is by using packing tape. It's easy to use and will help you organize your items.

Packing and stowage

Packing and stowing rates are determined by the container's size, the cargo's weight, and the distance between the origin and destination points.

For example, if you ship a 10-foot container with a load of goods weighing 1 ton, the total cost would be $1,000. If you ship a 40-foot container with a similar load, but at a rate of 5 tonnes per cubic meter, the total cost would increase to $5,000.

However, these numbers are only estimates. Exact rates vary according to the chosen shipping company.

Cargo insurance

Cargo insurance protects against loss or damage to goods during transit. It covers the cost of replacing lost or damaged items. In addition, it reimburses the shipper for any additional costs incurred due to delays caused by the carrier's negligence.

Most carriers offer cargo insurance, which is included in the shipment price. However, there are several types of insurance available:

• Full value insurance - This type of insurance pays out the market value of the shipped goods.
• Partial value insurance - This type provides coverage for a percentage of the value of the goods. The amount of coverage depends on the policy chosen.
• Collision insurance - This type of coverage compensates the owner of the insured property for losses sustained as a result of a collision, fire, theft, vandalism, etc.
• General liability insurance - This cover protects the shipper against claims made by third parties who suffer injury or damage to their property while in the shipper's possession.
• Specialized insurance - This type of policy is tailored to meet specific needs, such as insuring against loss or damage from natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.

Make sure to study the cargo insurance policies your carrier offers and pick the best option.

Steps to Pack a Shipping Container

Packing something as large as a shipping container full of household items might seem daunting. Luckily, you can tackle the process by following some simple steps.

1) Buying Shipping Supplies

Before you begin packing, make sure you have enough supplies. These include:

• Packing tape
• Bubble wrap
• Boxes
• Lining paper
• Plastic bags
• Gel packs

You can purchase packing materials at a local store or online.

2) Protecting your Belongings

• Prepare each item before putting it into the container. Make sure you remove any labels, tags, or other identifying information. Also, take care not to scratch or dent the surface of the items.
• Carefully wrap fragile items in a protective material such as bubble wrap or gel packs. You can also use fabrics such as clothes or t-shirts to cushion fragile items.
• Organize your items so that they can easily be packed. Use boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape to group them. Don't forget to label your boxes once everything is packed away--this will make unpacking much easier on the other end!

3) Loading the Containers

• Load the storage container with the heaviest items first. Then fill in the empty spaces with smaller items. When loading the container, start at one end and work toward the opposite end.
• Do your best to fill the container and secure any loose items. Unsecured boxes or furniture can slide around during transit, causing easily preventable damage to your belongings.
• Secure the container with straps or chains. Be careful not to over-tighten the straps because they could cause damage to the container.

4) Checking Your Work and Locking Up

• Check the contents of the container periodically to ensure everything is secure. If you notice anything missing, notify the shipping company immediately.
• When you're finished packing, sign the bill of lading (the document confirming the delivery) and lock up the container.

Conclusion

Now that you've learned how to pack shipping containers, you should feel more confident about moving your belongings.

Filling a storage container is more about proper preparation and planning than anything else. Taking these precautions will reduce the chances of damaging your possessions during transit.

Need an experienced long-distance freight shipper to transport your newly packed items? A1 Auto Transport can help.

We're some of the most experienced long-distance movers. As a result, clients across the United States trust us to handle their long-distance moves.

Ready to learn more? Visit our website to calculate your estimated long-distance shipping cost today.

Related Information

Shipping a Cargo Container