If you are manufacturing goods for export, you will undoubtedly look out for the fastest but the cheapest way of getting them delivered to your customers. Ocean freight is by far the most popular method of shipping cargo, largely because it is simple, safe, and cost-effective.
Containers – Making Global Trade Simple and Safe
Most of the world’s maritime trade uses containers that are particularly suited to intermodal transport necessary for doorstep delivery without the need for unloading and unloading at any of the transit points en route. According to Marine Insights, you can transport intermodal containers by road, rail, sea, and even air without needing to offload and repackage the cargo. It means that when you use containers, typically full container loads, you can load the good into the container at your facility, transport it on a truck to the port where it is loaded onto a cargo ship and transported to its destination. The container with the seal intact is unloaded and put on trucks for the final delivery. However, to get the best benefits, you need to choose the right kind of container and ensure it is in good shape. Some tips:
Choose the Right Kind of Container
Even though it may not be readily apparent to the untrained eye, there is a lot of variation in the types of containers, depending on the kind and volume of the cargo. Containers are typically standardized to two sizes – 20 feet and 40 feet though there are a few variations in length and height to suit special requirements. In addition to the general-purpose container, which is the most popular type, you can get many other kinds. These include containers with removable tops, double doors, foldable sides, and even a high cube shipping container that is one foot higher to accommodate oversize cargo. There are special containers for carrying liquid cargo, refrigerated goods, and insulated containers. It is a good idea to discuss in detail with the freight forwarder your requirement, including the availability, delivery time, and budget as well as how the cargo will be picked up and delivered.
Carry Out a Physical Inspection
When you use a container to ship your goods, you have to ensure that they arrive at the destination undamaged and without pilferage. The container should, therefore, be in very good condition. There should be no cuts in the walls as weather protection will be compromised, while, if there is rust, it could damage your goods. The walls and roof should be dent and rust-free, and the top rails straight. The doors must swing open freely, and the locking rods must be straight. Ensure that the gasket seals are in good condition and do not permit water to enter.
Conclusion
Ocean freight container selection may seem complicated, especially when you are doing it for the first time. However, it becomes simple if you retain focus on your priorities. You must make sure that you choose the type of container best suited to the cargo, both in terms of its nature and size. The container itself must be in good working condition so that your goods arrive undamaged.
