Frequent Mistakes in Container Shipping to Avoid

Container shipping is very important when it comes to international trade. Through containers, it is easier to transport any of your foods across oceans and to any location across the globe.

However, although shipping a container may appear simple at first, even experienced shippers occasionally make typical mistakes. Hence, when opting to ship containers, there are some traps to watch out for that will guarantee you a seamless and effective shipping process.

Here are the 5 most common mistakes that shippers make during container shipping and we offer the best way to avoid them.

1. Settling on the wrong container

Have you ever attempted to fit a square peg in a round hole? This is what selecting the wrong container for your shipments feels and looks like. The most common types of containers that can meet any of your shipping needs are:

• Regular container
• Refrigerated container
• An open-top container
• A flat-rack container

Expert advice

To avoid settling on the wrong container, start by determining the following about your cargo:

• The dimensions
• The weight
• Any unique needs (such as temperature management)

The choosing the right kind of container by speaking with your shipping company.

2. Packaging

Overpacking Vs Under packing

Overpacking a container can result in damage, while under packing might cause things to move around while being transported. Comparable to a game of Tetris, stuffing containers full may seem effective at first, but it can cause a host of issues later on.

Hence try and pack only what you need and adhere to the weight restrictions.

Little packaging material

Playing with bubble wrap can be fun right? But when it comes to safeguarding cargo it can be insufficient. If you want your shipment to arrive at its destination undamaged and in great shape then invest in a superior packing material.

Poorly secured cargo

You can try and see your container as a child's room following a tantrum with objects all over the place! So, to stop damage during shipment, make sure you secure your cargo within the container. Keep your products from becoming a disorganized mess.

Expert advice

Ensure that you disperse cargo weight uniformly and adhere to the assigned container's weight limit. When you fill up spaces and secure objects make sure you use dunnage. This is the material used to protect goods.

3. Inaccurate customs and regulations

Customs procedures and documentation can be complicated and confusing. Inaccurate or missing paperwork may result in penalties or delays.

Wrong Bill of Lading

Make sure the Bill of Lading is correct because it serves as your container's passport. One does not want their shipment to be detained in paperwork purgatory, thus mistakes here might cause delays and uncertainty.

No shipping labels

Although labels may appear insignificant, they serve as the navigational cues that direct your cargo to its intended location. Don't allow inaccurate or missed labels to lead your container down an unexpected path.

Expert advice

Learn about your destination country's customs regulations before your container shipping. Confirm the accuracy and completeness of all documentation, such as:

• The commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading

You could also think about using a customs broker to help you understand the many laws for the country you plan to ship to.

4. Inaccurately estimated shipping costs

They could be some unforeseen container shipping expenses that can cause havoc with your finances. Oftentimes, the guilty parties can be:

• Detention fees which is the fees for the containers that are not returned within the specified period of time.
• Demurrage which are fines for the containers that are not removed from the port on time.

Expert advice:

You can request for a comprehensive shipping quote from your supplier that will include all these possible unforeseen costs.

Be aware of the rules and regulations that pertain to the use and return of the containers you use for shipping.

5. Avoiding insurance for your cargo

Many times you may want to forfeit paying for insurance of your goods and that is a gamble that may cost you if your items get lost or are damaged in anyway.

Expert advice

You should get adequate cargo insurance that will fully cover the worth of the cargo you plan to ship on the containers.

In addition, you could also study the policies drawn out to determine what is and isn't covered by the insurance obtained.

Conclusion

If you avoid most of these common mistakes then you are in your way to becoming a virtuoso in container shipping. The key to a smooth voyage is to pay a close eye to detail, proper preparation and aligning with the best shipping company for all your shipping needs.

Are you ready to embark on your seamless journey of container shipping? Be assured that your cargo will reach its destination securely and effectively if you make advanced plans and are alert!

Ship any 20ft or 40ft container with Ameritrans Freight International today. Happy shipping!