It may not come as a surprise that most Exporter’s number one pain is damaged goods, even after paying top dollar to reduce damages. Even with the great technology and transportation services of our day, the cargo still undergoes harsh vibrations and possible shock from being moved to different locations. In addition to harm from transport, cargo may undergo added stress with damage from light, heat, moisture, or even too much tilt from movement.
How to avoid damages
While some of the damages are inevitable, there are ways to mitigate the harsh effects of transporting cargo. Determining the vibration and shock the shipment may have can help to better prepare for potential damages. Consider using foam to absorb vibrations or shock and pallet cushions to reduce the impact on units being transported.
Read More: What can we do to solve the transportation issue effectively?
Why shock indicators can make a difference?
Shock indicators can be very telling of what is going on during shipment. They serve as both a measurement of impact during shipment and a warning to transporters that you value the cargo and expect proper care. Many shipments undergo shock and vibration damage that may not be apparent at first. Machinery and other items sensitive to movement could be hazardous if tilted or damaged internally. Shock indicators are often the only way to calculate damages that may otherwise go unnoticed. Most importantly, shock indicators can provide accurate proof of the damage and require accountability when damages occur.
What can happen during shipment?
Shock & Vibration and Tilt
Shock, vibration, and tilt to cargo can either sustain apparent damage or almost invisible damage that can be extremely hard to trace back to one single source. The damages from either can be expensive and frustrating. While vibrations can’t be completely avoided, a shock or impact indicator can measure vibration amount so countermeasures can be taken to avoid damage in the future.
Moisture Damage
Moisture sensitive goods can benefit from tracking with indicators. Extreme temperature changes, heavy rains, and humidity can negatively affect moisture-sensitive goods. Smart monitoring devices can help track what is going on with moisture levels and what may be causing things like rust on the product.
Light
Unauthorized intrusions can be a potential threat to some cargo, especially depending on the transportation route. A light indicator can monitor if or when light enters the container to inform of any unauthorized intrusions that may have caused damage to the goods.
| Shock & Vibration and Tilt | Moisture Damage | Light |
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How can you avoid the damages?
Blocking And Bracing
The phrase precious cargo is not just a term used lightly. Regardless of the content, damaged cargo can be a financial loss. Much of the shock and vibration damage can be avoided by preparing goods adequately ahead of time. Blocking and bracing are more secure ways to protect cargo effectively. It involves using wood, plastic, or metal to brace the inside of a container and prevent goods from shifting around during shipment.
Changing Shipping Modes
Seek out the best shipping modes to accommodate your needs. Find ways to reduce the frequency of handling to avoid a higher chance of freight damage. Consider options like full truckload or full container load shipping that allow you to rent the entire container to use for yourself. This provides more flexibility to block and brace your cargo and secure a more stable shipment.
Use Impact And Shock Indicators
Impact and shock indicators are the most effective way to know precisely what is going on in transit. Any shock , impact, or other damage sends an immediate notification to shippers so they can pinpoint where damage may have happened. This allows them to hold the right parties accountable for damages to goods. With the help of impact and shock indicators, shippers can identify problem areas to avoid and to determine the most reliable carriers. Though they are inexpensive, these indicators provide key information to keep carriers accountable for potential damages. They can offer an added security layer and save a lot of money later down the road.
| Blocking And Bracing | Changing Shipping Modes | Use Impact And Shock Indicators |
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Why are shock indicators the best way to protect your cargo?
Shipping Environment
Something as simple as a shock indicator can help handlers be more cautious when carrying and moving the cargo. When an indicator label is visible, they automatically know they may be held accountable for any damage happened while in their care. This greatly reduces the risk of damage to your goods.
Provide Accountability
The impact and shock indicators are designed to detect precise locations where damages may have happened. This helps reduce stress when tracking down the party that acted carelessly. With more accountability, the receiver can reject the goods on the spot if the indicator detects any damage, making the entire exchange simpler and less stressful.
Alert Recipient
The reliable tracking system and recorded data allow shippers to alert recipients to inspect the goods for possible damage. It ensures that the cargo is inspected properly by operators before sending it out for continued transit. The ability to alert recipients reinforces accountability and makes mishandling detection quicker.
Importers lose far too much money each year to shipping damages and face the repercussions of low inventory because of the damaged goods. With high-quality shock indicators, you can avoid the nightmare of tracking down damages and spend more time getting your products to your customers safely.
Check out reliable indicators here!
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