Tips for Proper Packaging in Trucking: Shrink Wrapping & Banding

Effective packaging is crucial for ensuring that goods arrive at their destination in good condition, and there are several techniques that can be used to improve packaging for transit, such as shrink wrapping, banding, corner boards, and cubing out the truck fully. 

1. Shrink wrapping: Shrink wrapping is a technique that involves wrapping a plastic film around a product and then heating it so that it shrinks and conforms tightly to the shape of the product. This helps to protect the product from moisture, dust, and other types of damage.  Shrink wrapping also helps to prevent shifting or movement of products within the shipment, which can result in scratches, dents, or even breakage. By creating a tight and secure packaging, shrink wrapping minimizes the risk of damage and ensures that products arrive at their destination in the same condition as they were shipped. In addition to preventing damage, shrink wrapping also provides a clear and professional appearance to the shipment, which can improve the overall customer experience and increase brand reputation.

2. Banding: Banding is a technique that involves using a banding machine to apply a plastic or steel band around a product to hold it securely in place. This can help to prevent products from shifting during transit and protect them from damage. This method involves wrapping a flexible band around a pallet or a group of products and tightening it to hold them together. The band can be made of various materials such as steel, plastic, or polyester and can be customized to fit the specific size and weight of the shipment. Banding helps to prevent damage and loss during transit by securing products in place and reducing movement within the shipment. It also allows for easier handling and loading/unloading of the shipment, which can save time and reduce labor costs. Banding is a versatile packaging solution that can be used for a variety of products, from heavy machinery to delicate electronics. By using the proper banding technique, shippers can ensure that their products arrive at their destination safely and securely.

3. Corner boards: Corner boards are triangular or L-shaped pieces of wood or plastic that are used to reinforce the corners of a package. They help to distribute the weight of the package evenly and protect the corners from damage during transit. Corner boards are essential packaging accessories that are often used on pallets in the Less-than-Truckload (LTL) network to prevent damage during transit. These boards are typically made of sturdy cardboard or plastic and are placed on the corners of the pallet to provide extra support and protection. Corner boards help to distribute the weight of the load evenly, reducing the pressure on the corners of the pallet and preventing damage from impact or compression. They also create a buffer between the load and the pallet, reducing the risk of abrasion or puncture. In addition to preventing damage to the pallet, corner boards also help to maintain the integrity of the load, ensuring that products are not crushed or deformed during transit. By using corner boards in their packaging operations, shippers can minimize the risk of damage to their shipments and improve their overall supply chain efficiency.

4. Cubing out the truck fully: Cubing out the truck fully is a technique that involves maximizing the space inside the truck to prevent products from shifting during transit. This can be achieved by properly stacking products, using space-saving packaging methods, and ensuring that the truck is fully loaded. By strategically arranging and stacking products within the trailer, shippers can fill the trailer from floor to ceiling, creating a tight and secure fit that prevents products from shifting or moving during transit. Cubing out the trailer also helps to optimize the weight distribution of the load, reducing the risk of overloading or underloading specific areas of the trailer. This packaging technique is particularly important for shippers who transport large and heavy products that require a lot of space. By using this method, shippers can ensure that their products are transported safely and efficiently, while also reducing the risk of damage or loss. Cubing out a trailer fully is an effective way to maximize the use of available space and ensure that products are secure and stable during transportation.

In conclusion, there are several techniques that can be used to improve safety in transit such as shrink wrapping, banding, corner boards, and cubing out the truck fully. These techniques can help to protect goods from damage during transit, reduce the risk of damage, and ensure that goods arrive at their destination in good condition. It is important to consider the type of goods, the weight and dimensions, the mode of transportation and the expected handling during the transit when choosing the best packaging technique for the goods.