The core of packaging for international logistics shipments lies in matching freight modes, resisting damage during transshipment and complying with regulatory standards. Packaging priorities vary based on commodity types and shipping methods. Key guidelines are outlined below.
Section 1 General Basic Requirements
1.Packaging shall have sufficient strength to withstand stacking, vibration and handling impacts throughout transit and prevent product damage from compressive deformation.
2.Outer packages must be dry, clean and intact. Damp, moldy or odorous packing materials are prohibited to avoid cargo contamination.
3.Packaging dimensions and weight should conform to limits of your selected freight mode for easy loading and unloading. Strict size-and-weight restrictions apply to air freight, ocean freight and courier services.
4.Clearly mark logistics details including the shipper’s and consignee’s full names, addresses and contact numbers, together with cargo weight, volume and warning labels such as Fragile or Keep-Dry. All markings must be firmly attached against peeling-off.
Section 2 Targeted Packaging by Cargo Type
1.Fragile Goods (Glassware, Ceramics, Precision Instruments)Adopt the three-layer packaging method. Wrap and secure goods with bubble film and EPE foam as the inner layer; fill gaps with foam blocks for cushioning as the middle layer; seal everything in sturdy cartons or wooden frames as the outer layer to stop items from shifting inside. Precision instruments require extra shockproof bases, with "This Side Up" and "Handle With Care" labels clearly marked.
2.Liquid Cargo (Chemical Products, Food & Beverages)Use leakproof containers with reliable sealing performance such as metal cans and plastic drums. Reinforce container openings with adhesive tape or sealing gaskets, cover containers with waterproof bags, then place them into cartons filled with absorbent materials like wood shavings and sponges to prevent leakage from contaminating other shipments.
3.Oversized & Heavy Cargo (Machinery, Building Materials)Secure goods on wooden pallets or steel frames, and fasten cargo tightly to pallets with steel bands and ropes. Mark the center of gravity and lifting points prominently. Extra-wide or extra-tall goods shall be fitted with anti-collision corner guards to avoid scratches during transit.
4.Fresh & Cold-Chain Cargo (Fruits, Seafood, Pharmaceuticals)Pack with insulated coolers paired with ice packs or dry ice. Control temperatures according to preservation requirements. Coolers must be well-sealed with reserved air vents to prevent box expansion caused by dry ice sublimation. Mark outer packages with "Cold Chain Shipment" and "Do Not Turn Upside Down".
5.Dangerous Goods (Lithium Batteries, Chemical Reagents)Follow packaging standards corresponding to the UN number. Deploy compliant UN-certified dangerous goods packaging including UN cartons and steel drums, and affix hazard labels together with UN numbers. The packaging must withstand certain pressure and impact to eliminate risks of leakage or explosion.
Section 3 Packaging Adjustments by Transport Mode
1.Ocean FreightPackaging must be moisture-proof and resistant to salt spray corrosion. Wrap cargo with moisture barrier film. All wooden packaging shall undergo fumigation and bear IPPC marks to prevent rejection by destination customs. When loading into containers, secure goods against container walls and doors to avoid shifting caused by vessel swaying.
2.Air FreightLightweight and compression-resistant packaging is required. Avoid heavy wooden crates to prevent higher chargeable weight. Add cushioning materials for fragile items without exceeding air freight dimensional limits. Special goods such as lithium batteries and liquids must comply with air dangerous goods packaging standards with relevant certification documents provided.
3.Rail & TruckingPackaging shall withstand long-distance vibration and rough handling. Frames for bulky cargo must fit transport vehicles and be double-secured with ropes or fasteners to prevent loosening en route. For cross-border truck shipments, keep packaging simple to facilitate inspection at border checkpoints.
Section 4 Compliance Rules & Prohibited Practices
All wooden packaging must meet quarantine standards of destination countries. Wood packaging exported to the EU, US, Australia and other regions must be fumigated or heat-treated and marked with IPPC logo; non-compliant cargo risks being destroyed by quarantine authorities.Damaged or recycled dangerous goods packaging cannot be used, nor can regular packaging replace dedicated UN-certified DG packaging. Violations may result in cargo detention and fines.No unrelated items (personal belongings, prohibited articles, etc.) may be concealed inside packages. Declare all contents truthfully to eliminate customs clearance delays due to inconsistent contents.For high-value goods (luxury goods, electronic products), apart from reinforced packaging, anti-theft stickers or lockable custom cartons can be used to mitigate theft risks.
