If you don't package your shipment properly, your freight carrier can deny damage claims. Also, a freight carrier may charge a repacking fee if your load arrives for shipment under-packaged.

Packing Freight in Boxes

For all packages, a new box is ideal. Boxes wear and weaken with each use, but if you must use a recycled box, make sure to remove all old labels and bar codes. Plywood crates offer the best protection and can be purchased in several sizes. If your shipment is particularly heavy, make sure your box is seamed or stapled, not simply glued. Inside its box, your item should be protected by at least two inches of padding on all sides.

Don’t over- or under-pack your freight boxes. Your shipment will be handled and transferred many times, and both over- and under-packed boxes are subject to damage.
All packages should be clearly labeled with names, addresses and phone numbers of the consignee and consignor. If your freight carrier assigns your shipment a freight class, mark this number on your shipment to aid with handling and billing.

Palletizing Freight

When shipping a very large item or several packages by freight, you should palletize your shipment. Palletized shipments are placed on a wooden or plastic pallet, secured with bands and wrapped in plastic. Placing your freight shipment on a pallet protects it during transport, especially when forklifts or other machinery are used to handle your package.

When palletizing your freight shipment, remember these tips:

• Don’t over-pack your pallet, either in weight or in height
• Distribute weight evenly across your pallet
• Pack to the edge of the pallet, but avoid overhang
• Make sure the top of the pallet is flat, to prevent lost packages or damage

If you are shipping freight internationally, you must use a pallet made of non-wood material (plastic or steel) or wood that has been treated with heat or chemicals. Your pallet cannot carry fungus or other parasites that may damage native plants or animals.