Why is packaging so important?

However, a reputable freight forwarder should always offer professional packaging services to ensure that your goods arrive at their destination in the proper condition. While these services may come at an additional cost, it is often worth the investment to avoid having unsalable goods.

On this page, we will explain the importance of freight packaging in the US and provide tips on how to manage it effectively, whether it be through self-management or professional services.

Packaging – do it yourself!

How to pack by yourself? The step-by-step guide.

Proper packaging is crucial for ensuring the safety of industrial products, particularly those that must meet international safety standards. Hazardous materials, such as chemicals, must be handled by certified organizations for proper packaging to ensure safe transport to the destination.

Personal effects, such as those during a move, also require proper packaging to ensure their safety during transport. It is important to consider when and how to start the packing process and to work with a reliable professional to make the task as easy as possible.

Getting started and organized

It is important to note that some items, such as fragile or valuable items, may require special packing techniques or materials. It is best to consult with professionals to ensure that your belongings are packaged properly and safely for transport.

The main steps are:

• Label all boxes with contents and destination room for easy unpacking and organization
• Mark fragile items for special attention during transport.
• Make an inventory of all your items before packing them, this will help you keep track of what you have and ensure that nothing is forgotten or lost during the move.
• Be sure to clearly label all of your boxes with their contents.
• Be sure to have a plan for fragile items, such as wrapping them in bubble wrap or placing them in special boxes.
• Make a detailed inventory of your belongings, including serial numbers, and take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes.

Packing efficiently

Allocate one (or more if necessary) dedicated space for packaging. Firstly, because it is much easier to pack and have enough space for several people and the goods in question. In addition, this limits the risk of breakage/damage to the goods or their environment.

Pack strategically and organized. Wrap each item individually (if necessary). Heavy items should be placed in the bottom of the cartons to leave room at the top for light and/or fragile items. If the item is very fragile, then individual packing should be used to ensure smooth transportation.

Finally, don't hesitate to pad the empty spaces with bubble wrap or “newspaper”, you will reduce the risk of breakage during the journey.

Finish packing in style!

Take care of your packing list. The packing list is a very important document that lists the entire shipment. It is therefore indispensable to fill it out carefully, as it will be used directly by customs during the customs clearance phase. This document, therefore, indicates the nature of the goods, their quantity, and their values (unit and total).

Build up the packing list a little by listing the packed goods as you prepare (especially in the case of a move). This “technique” also allows you to have control over what you have already packed and what remains to be done, on “paper”.

Points not to be neglected during packing

The packing lists

As mentioned above, the “packing list” is an important element that should not be rushed since it will be directly transmitted to the local customs.

Many customers ask us how to value second-hand goods (especially in the case of removals). This is indeed a delicate question that appeals directly to common sense:

• If you overvalue the goods: You will pay more taxes when clearing customs, and insurance will also be more expensive.
• If you undervalue the goods: Customs may raise a doubt, investigate and block the goods at the border until a fine is paid. At your own risk… If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact our experts!

Labeling

From a practical point of view, this is a definite advantage! For you on arrival, for transport professionals so as not to confuse the goods, or finally for customs officers because it supports the veracity of the “packing list”. Labelling is a quick, inexpensive operation that is so beneficial, so don't forget!

The advantages and disadvantages of packing yourself

Why hire a team of professionals for packaging?

Professionals save you time

Packing services can be particularly useful if you need to move quickly. If this is the case, DocShipper can pack your entire inventory in one day, when you might need a week to do it yourself.

In fact, packing comes with specific expertise, and you may not have the knowledge of the amount and type of packing materials to use. Professional packers will use appropriate packing supplies for each item. For example, we will use padded packaging for fragile items and special boxes for small parts.

You become eligible for insurance

Most packing companies offer insurance for your cargo. Indeed, in packaging services, the risk of breakage is extremely low, but even if unfortunately, one or more of your products are damaged, the company must pay to compensate you.

Safety first

Nothing will better protect your belongings than a professional packaging team. This ensures you won't be late for your flight. Furthermore, if your belongings are damaged during delivery, the insurance company will always refuse to reimburse you if the transportation packaging was not done by professionals.