How to Reduce Potential Freight Damage

Freight damage results in major expenses to shippers and customers. It is a hit to inventory and can lead to the potential loss of business, increased shrink levels and the disruption of service. If several packages or shipments suffer damage during freight shipping, it quickly becomes a large and expensive problem. Fortunately, preventing the problem is as simple as packing items correctly. Here are five tips for reducing freight damage in Houston, TX:

• Do not reuse: Used shipping materials are weak shipping materials. While reusing boxes and packing material seems economical and environmentally friendly, it also risks damage. The boxes have already been through one round of shipping, and are therefore compromised. It is best to flatten and recycle used boxes or use them for storage at your facility. Ship items using new materials.
• Inspect pallets frequently: Plenty of freight damage occurs due to damaged pallets. Like boxes, they take several hits during shipping and may require attention at times. Spending a few minutes nailing boards or replacing pallets will save money on replacing damaged freight. If pallets show cracks, breakage or other damage, retire them. The default to new shipping material also applies to pallets.
• Secure freight: Shifting in transit is another factor resulting in damaged freight. Fortunately, you do not have to rely entirely on the smoothness of your delivery drivers—there are steps you can take to prevent it. Use shrink wrap, metal bands and other means to prevent the shift. Fill boxes with packing material to secure items better. Impact protection is necessary for anything that is delicate, and there are biodegradable options if you never liked Styrofoam. Like other efforts listed here, it will take time, but it will be time well spent in preserving the quality of your freight items.
• Do not skimp on adhesives: Cheap tape and glue frequently contributes to freight damage. Heat, cold and movement can compromise adhesives and set your freight items loose. Use the best materials to prevent this scenario. Limit your adhesives to items designed specifically for shipping. Strong shipping tape that is at least two inches wide is your best shipping tool and will keep your boxes safe. Water-activated tape with industrial-strength glue is also an excellent option if you are shipping heavy and fragile items. Avoid masking tape, cellophane tape or string, as they are most likely to fail during transit.
• Label clearly: If you have delicate items that require special handling, label them correctly. Like tape and other adhesives, you will need to make sure the labels stay on. Freight damage often arises not from negligence, but from ignorance. If a label falls off or you forget to label items, workers do not know they must handle them with care. Labels also offer protection to you in another way. If you label items well and a shipping service still mishandles them, it is easier to collect compensation for freight damage.

If you seek freight shipping in Houston, TX with a reduced chance of damage, Pro Delivery LLC is here for you. Partner with us today to meet your shipping needs.

Categorised in: Freight Delivery

This post was written by Writer