Cargo Shifting in Transit

In international shipping there is always a possibility of cargo shifting in the shipping container. Many times we hear stories about 50 foot seas and containers swinging off the sides of ships, but that is not usually the case. It really takes a hefty storm with a lot of deep ocean swells to make a ship tip over even a little bit. Most of the times that containers shift in transit are either because the cargo has not been loaded properly or the container has had a problem when loading or unloading by cranes or other means. This is why it is so important to balance the weight and pay attention to the way your cargo is stacked in a container.

For inexperienced shippers, it can be easier and more efficient to hire professionals to stuff your containers. Not only will they know how to ship your cargo, but they usually come with some sort of guarantee. If you are loading your container on your own, it is most important to pay attention to details; especially if your cargo is easily broken or spilled. You will need to palletize your cargo first and weight it by the pallet so you can see how to stack the pallets for loading. If your cargo does not completely fill the container, you should use straps inside to keep your pallets from shifting. This step is
important since can save you both time and money in the long run.

Unfortunately there are some instances that no matter how well you secure your container, it may just shift as it is moved around. However, if you take the necessary precautions before shipping it out, it will have better chances for arriving intact.