FIVE ESSENTIAL PRINCIPLES TO KEEP YOUR SEA FREIGHT SAFE, TIMELY, AND EFFICIENT
Sea freight remains one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to transport goods, but even experienced companies face challenges that can lead to delays, extra costs, or damaged cargo. Here are five of the most common mistakes business managers and logistics professionals encounter, along with practical tips on how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect Packaging
Proper packaging is the foundation of successful shipping. Many companies cut costs or use standard boxes without considering the cargo type. For example, one company shipped ceramic tiles from China to Dubai in standard containers without additional securing. As a result, some tiles were damaged during loading.
Tip: Use certified packaging, cushioning materials, and secure cargo properly inside the container.
2. Choosing the Wrong Container
Not every container is suitable for all types of cargo. A refrigerated container is essential for food, while oversized containers are needed for heavy or bulky equipment. Last year, one client tried to ship equipment in a standard container without accounting for height and weight, so part of the cargo had to be sent separately.
Plan the container type in advance based on size, weight, and shipping conditions.
1. Incorrect Packaging
Proper packaging is the foundation of successful shipping. Many companies cut costs or use standard boxes without considering the cargo type. For example, one company shipped ceramic tiles from China to Dubai in standard containers without additional securing. As a result, some tiles were damaged during loading.
Tip: Use certified packaging, cushioning materials, and secure cargo properly inside the container.
2. Choosing the Wrong Container
Not every container is suitable for all types of cargo. A refrigerated container is essential for food, while oversized containers are needed for heavy or bulky equipment. Last year, one client tried to ship equipment in a standard container without accounting for height and weight, so part of the cargo had to be sent separately.
Plan the container type in advance based on size, weight, and shipping conditions.
3. Skipping Insurance
Some companies hope for the best and skip cargo insurance. But damage or loss can cost far more than the insurance itself. A recent example: a shipment of electronics was delayed in port and partially damaged due to rain — insurance allowed full compensation.
4. Late Booking of Container Space
Peak shipping seasons occur at the end of the year and in spring. If container space isn’t booked early, deliveries can be delayed by weeks. In one case, a company planned to ship home appliances during the high season, but due to late booking, the container arrived three weeks later than scheduled.
5. Underestimating Customs Procedures
Errors in documentation or non-compliance can result in delays and fines. For instance, a company shipping furniture to the UAE incorrectly prepared quality certificates, and the shipment was held for two weeks.
Planning, proper packaging, selecting the right container, insurance, timely booking, and attention to documentation can prevent most sea freight problems. Real-world cases show that even a small mistake can have serious consequences, but with careful preparation, cargo arrives on time and intact.
With our support, you can avoid these mistakes and ensure your cargo arrives safely and on schedule.
Some companies hope for the best and skip cargo insurance. But damage or loss can cost far more than the insurance itself. A recent example: a shipment of electronics was delayed in port and partially damaged due to rain — insurance allowed full compensation.
4. Late Booking of Container Space
Peak shipping seasons occur at the end of the year and in spring. If container space isn’t booked early, deliveries can be delayed by weeks. In one case, a company planned to ship home appliances during the high season, but due to late booking, the container arrived three weeks later than scheduled.
5. Underestimating Customs Procedures
Errors in documentation or non-compliance can result in delays and fines. For instance, a company shipping furniture to the UAE incorrectly prepared quality certificates, and the shipment was held for two weeks.
Planning, proper packaging, selecting the right container, insurance, timely booking, and attention to documentation can prevent most sea freight problems. Real-world cases show that even a small mistake can have serious consequences, but with careful preparation, cargo arrives on time and intact.
With our support, you can avoid these mistakes and ensure your cargo arrives safely and on schedule.