Packaging and Crating for Transportation Key Terms

Understand some of the available crate and packing choices for shipping your goods

By Laurie Edwards

When you are shipping an item, the most important consideration is that it arrives safely and undamaged. To ensure this, you must select the best packaging and crating so it survives the transportation process intact. You have many choices of packages and crates for shipping, so you need to familiarize yourself with the available options to make the right choices for your product. Once you have made your selection for the exterior of the package or crate, decide on the protective materials you will use inside to further protect the contents.

Protective packaging materials

Protective packaging materials keep fragile or breakable contents safe during shipping. Often they are placed inside the package to keep the goods in one place and to cushion them from shocks. The more fragile your item, the more vital protective packaging materials are. They are also essential for flammable or hazardous materials.
Try: F.P Woll & Co. discusses a variety of protective packaging materials available for shipping.

Hazmat packaging

If the items you are shipping are hazardous or flammable, you will need special packaging before they can be transported. Hazmat packaging can protect chemicals or other dangerous substances for shipping.
Try: Airpack explains what hazmat packaging is and discusses the labels and certifications needed.

Variation packaging

Variation packaging is the outer container that has an inner package inserted into it. By using the dual packaging, the materials you ship have added protection. Sometimes also called V-boxes or 4GV Boxes. This packaging meets UN specifications, but must be lined with plastic or absorbent materials to prevent leakage.
Try: ICC The Compliance Center defines variation packaging and has a link to a video on preparing a compliant variation package.

Foam packaging

Foam packaging comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, and types. Foam works well to hold objects still and protect them from shocks during transport. Foam can be molded to conform to the shape of the object you are shipping. It is also useful for insulating items to keep them cold.
Try: Sealed Air Corporation describes the advantages of foam packaging and provides links to the various kinds that are available.

Silicone packaging

Silicone packaging is used for medical supplies, such as syringes, tech kits and cartridges. Primers, sealers, grease and other chemically based materials can be safely transported in silicone packaging. It forms an airtight package that protects the contents and prevents leakage.
Try: KitPackers explains the various options in silicone packaging and what each is used for.

Wooden crates

Wooden crates provide a sturdy exterior for transportation and are often used for shipping large items. Crates can be made of solid wood to completely enclose your product, or they can be constructed of slats. The choice depends on the item you plan to ship. Crates can be purchased ready made, built to your specs, or made in-house.
Try: Nefab Group discusses whether it's better to buy or build your wooden crates. Click on the pictures for additional information about wooden crates.