Transporting Shipping Containers: 6 Tips For A Secure Transit

Mar 13, 2023 Admin 201 view(s)

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Using shipping containers has been a popular preferred mode for long-distance transportation of commodities across various industries. All thanks to their high resistance to harsh weather conditions, remarkable durability, and ease of loading and unloading.

The foundations needed for storing shipping containers are made of high quality, durable materials, ensuring that all goods get delivered with maximum security. After all, the safe delivery of commodities from point A to point B should be the top priority.

Tips For Protecting Valuable Goods During Transit

Effective and practical techniques to protect valuable goods inside shipping containers are vital to prevent leakages, damages, and losses. This is why it would be best to take extra precautions to ensure that commodities safely arrive at their destinations.

With appropriate planning and proper execution, transporting valuable goods with shipping containers can be a reliable long-distance transportation method. By following various practices, you can maximise the benefits of shipping containers while minimising risks.

Let us hop into the six helpful tips for achieving a smooth-sailing transaction.

1. Choose a shipping container size that fits the inside

Proper sizing is a crucial consideration in safeguarding the packages. This means the size of your container should always match the size of the items inside. 
For instance, an oversized shipping container can make the items inside go around, potentially harming the package. Moreover, it can also compromise the design of the container itself.

Conversely, if the shipping container is too small, there may not be enough space to secure the items properly.

Note that improperly-sized containers pose a significant risk of damaging  the packages and the shipping container itself. Hence, selecting the right container size guarantees to prevent deterioration during transit.

2. Check the shipping container before loading

Thoroughly inspecting the shipping container and the area where you will keep them is vital. Whether on a ship or truck, you should always check the surface for stability and level.

Review and follow any specific guidelines applicable to your industry and location to further enhance safety measures. This can significantly reduce the likelihood of damages or accidents during the ride. Adhering to these rules and regulations ensures compliance and minimises risks.

Taking the time and effort to check the container and loading area can give you peace of mind, as this guarantees the arrival of commodities safely at their destination without any mishaps. 

3. Secure the shipping container to the cargo

To ensure unassailable transportation of shipping containers, secure them tightly to the vehicle’s structure. Another tip here is to use chains, cables, or straps with the increased tensile strength to withstand wear and tear.

While you are at it, make sure to avoid under-tightening or over-tightening the ties. This is because it could result in damaging the container. At the same time, it could render instability during transport.

The best way to guarantee the safety of shipping containers is by using corner and edge protectors. This practice prevents the ties from sabotaging and cutting into the container’s surface.

4. Use heavy-duty blocking and bracing tools

It is not a secret that shipping containers shift and move around the vehicle during transit. This is why using heavy-duty tools to secure and lock the containers is paramount. It prevents potential damage to packages and cargo.

These two heavy equity pieces of equipment are essential to mitigate the shipping containers’ sturdiness during transit. They ensure that each container remains stable and secure, even during rough and unpredictable road conditions.

You should also invest in robust locks and seals to add an extra layer of protection. Aside from providing safety regarding unauthorised access to containers, it guarantees they will not break or get tampered with. 

5. Monitor the shipping container during transit

Always keep an eye on your container throughout the journey. In addition, regularly inspect the chains, locks, and ties to know everything is intact and functioning correctly.

You would not want to pose a severe risk to your transport vehicle and the cargo. With this in mind, if you encounter problems, address them immediately to avoid potential casualties. Such issues may include slack ties and malfunctioning locks. 

Another advantage of early detection of the problem also makes way for swift action. Whether you are transporting high-value shipments or small-scale loads, occasionally monitoring them can minimise negative impacts on the deliveries. 

6. Purchase insurance coverage if possible

Shipping items involves a variety of risks. This includes losses, thefts, and damages. Hence, getting your items insured is one way to protect the valuable commodities inside the containers during transit. 

Aside from providing peace of mind, you have a financial safety net if an unfortunate event occurs. But like any other policy, you must read the coverage deductibles, limits, and exclusions to know if it matches your shipping needs.

You may seek guidance and assistance from industry experts around this situation. Furthermore, you must partner with a reputable insurance provider to help pick suitable insurance coverage.

Conclusion

While transporting shipping containers can be daunting, proper planning and execution can prevent unforeseen cargo problems. It not only secures the commodities inside but can also optimise your transport operation’s efficiency.

Shipping containers are also vulnerable to various internal and external factors during transportation. This includes weather conditions, wear and tear, and potential theft and sabotage. However, by taking the proper measures listed in this article, you can quickly respond to any transportation issues.