Essential characteristics of packaging in sea transport of goods

When it comes to the sea transport of goods, it is essential to ensure that your goods arrive safely and in optimal condition at their destination. To achieve this, packaging plays a crucial role, as it must protect your goods from the many challenges that can arise during transport by sea. In this article, we will explore in detail the essential features that your packaging should have if you are considering shipping your products by sea, with a special emphasis on corrosion-resistant packaging.

1. Salt water and moisture resistance: Sea transport exposes your goods to humid conditions and salt water, which increases the risk of corrosion and damage. It is therefore essential that your packaging is highly resistant to these elements. Opt for high-quality, waterproof materials, such as plastic sheeting, metal coatings or barrier films, which provide effective protection against moisture infiltration and corrosion.
To ensure resistance to salt water and humidity, it is essential to select suitable materials and apply specific protection techniques. Some of the common options include:

Waterproof materials: It is recommended to use packaging materials that are inherently waterproof or have moisture barrier properties. Examples are plastic sheeting such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP), which prevent moisture from seeping into the packaging and damaging the products.
Metal coatings: In some cases, metal coatings such as aluminium are applied to packaging materials to provide additional protection against moisture and salt water. These coatings act as an additional barrier, preventing corrosion and damage caused by direct exposure to moisture.
Barrier films: There are special barrier films specifically designed for packaging in sea transport. These films are composed of multiple layers including materials such as nylon or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which provide additional protection against moisture and salt water ingress.

It is important to note that resistance to salt water and moisture does not only refer to the packaging material, but also to its design and construction. Adequate packaging must be able to effectively seal potential moisture ingress routes, such as joints and seams, using appropriate sealing techniques, and it is essential to consider the time of exposure to moisture and salt water during sea transport. Depending on the duration of the journey and the condition of the packaging, it may be necessary to implement additional protective measures, such as the addition of moisture absorbers or desiccants to maintain a dry environment inside the packaging.

2. Protection against shocks and vibrations: During sea transport, goods are exposed to sudden movements, shocks and vibrations due to sea conditions and port handling. It is imperative that your packaging has the ability to absorb impact and protect the contents from damage. To achieve this, you can use cushioning materials such as polyethylene or polyurethane foams, bubble sheets and corner protectors. These elements provide an additional layer of protection and minimise the risk of damage during transport.

3. Structural stability: Packaging used in sea transport must be robust enough to withstand the rigorous conditions to which it will be exposed. Your goods are likely to be subject to stacking, loading and unloading, and handling in ship loading areas and port warehouses. It is therefore vital that your packaging maintains its structural integrity even in situations of heavy loads or compression. Consider using strong materials, such as high-density plywood, fibreglass-reinforced plastic or metal containers, to ensure the safety of your goods throughout the journey.

4. Corrosion-resistant packaging: Sea transport presents particular challenges in terms of corrosion due to prolonged exposure to moisture and saline environments. Proper corrosion-resistant packaging is essential to protect your goods during transport. You can apply corrosion-resistant packaging techniques, such as the use of VCI (volatile corrosion inhibitor) bags and wraps, which emit chemical compounds that actively protect against corrosion. In addition, you can consider corrosion-resistant coatings, such as special paints, corrosion-inhibiting oils or protective coatings for metals.

5. Clear labelling and marking: A key aspect of sea transport packaging is proper labelling and marking. This includes clearly indicating the fragility of the contents, handling instructions and any special requirements. Visible and durable labels on packaging will help transport managers handle your goods correctly and minimise the risk of damage. It also considers the use of additional signage, such as direction arrows, to ensure proper handling throughout the process.