How to stuff cargo as a Pro?

Most cargo is transported by Sea. Transhipped several times.

Proper cargo stuffing, loading, and securing inside the container is the shipper’s legal obligation. Having evidence that cargo was loaded and sowed properly is a crucial part to recover cargo claims.

Make sure that the container is selected according to the type of cargo you are going to load.

DON’T overload over the payload limits of the container.

DON’T loverload above the road regulations applicable on the transit.

Make sure that weight is evenly distributed throughout the container.

Make sure that heavy cargo is stowed evenly at the bottom of the container with light goods on top.

Pay attention that insecure cargo may shift during a sea voyage causing breakage or imbalance to the container.

Make sure that all cargo handling instructions are followed carefully, i.e. “Do Not Drop” or “This Side Up”.

Make sure that liquids are loaded at the bottom with dry cargo on top where possible.

Make sure that correct packaging/dunnage is used where applicable, namely:

• to separate cargo with sharp corners from softer merchandise
• when loading Dangerous Cargo, make sure that the correct International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code packaging is used
• always ensure packaging and dunnage is not incompatible with the cargo
• DON’T use clamps or other loading devices unless the cargo can withstand them
• DON’T load cargo into a container if the packaging is damaged

Make sure that appropriate stickers, labels, placards, etc. are used to identify packing and freight containers loaded with Dangerous Goods.

Make sure that all necessary documentation is included.

Check the seal number and container number are listed correctly on all documentation.

The exporter’s duty to load, stuff, pack, and secure cargo properly is compulsory. However, when cargo is damaged in transit, the carrier will always try to put the blame on the shipper for not fulfilling this obligation. Make sure, you as a shipper, always document and have pre-shipment evidence available to defend your claim and recover losses from liable parties.