Packaging Guidelines for Freight Transport
At Truck It Ltd, we want your goods to arrive in the exact same condition they left. Unlike courier services, general freight moves on heavy trucks, travels over long distances, and is handled by forklifts and pallet jacks. The journey involves vibration, stacking, and mechanical handling.
The Golden Rule:
Your goods must be packed to withstand normal transport handling, which includes vibration, the weight of other freight stacked on top, and handling by machinery.
Please Note: Under our Conditions of Carriage, we accept no liability for goods damaged due to insufficient or unsuitable packaging.
1. The Pre-Packing Checklist
Before you seal your freight, follow these critical steps:
Clean & Strip: Clean the item and remove any loose accessories, parts, or removable components that could vibrate loose or get lost.
Measure & Weigh LAST: You must measure and weigh your item after it has been fully packed, crated, or palletised. If you quote the weight of the item before adding a 30kg pallet, you will be charged for the weight difference and an administration fee.
2. Cartons and Loose Items
Use Strong Cardboard: Use twin-wall or heavy-duty corrugated cardboard boxes. Avoid using old or moisture-damaged boxes.
No Air Gaps: A box that is only half-full will crush when other freight is stacked on top. Fill empty spaces with bubble wrap or crumpled paper.
The "Shake Test": Once packed, gently shake the box. If you hear contents moving, it is not packed correctly.
Seal it Tight: Use strong packing tape (50mm wide). Use the "H-Tape" method: tape along the center seam and both edge seams.
3. Palletised Freight
Pallets are the safest way to move heavy freight.
No Overhang: The goods must fit squarely within the pallet dimensions.
Stacking: Stack boxes in columns or an interlocking "brick" pattern. Ensure the top surface is flat to allow stacking.
Edge Guards: Use cardboard edge protectors on the corners of your stack to prevent the strapping from cutting into your boxes.
Secure to the Base: When shrink-wrapping, wrap the pallet base as well as the goods to bond the freight to the timber. Use strapping for heavy items.
4. Automotive & Machinery Specifics
Engines & Gearboxes: Must be fully drained of all fluids (oil, fuel, coolant). Strap or bolt the item securely to a sturdy pallet. Wrap completely with plastic film or shrink wrap to contain any residual grease or smells.
Bumpers, Bonnets & Body Panels: These are easily scratched. Use foam sheets, blankets, or edge protectors.
CRITICAL: Do not tape directly onto painted surfaces, as the adhesive can damage the clear coat. Wrap the item in plastic or foam first, then tape the wrapping.
Sharp Edges: Metal pipes or rods must have ends capped or wrapped in heavy cardboard to prevent injury to drivers.
5. Bicycles
Reduce Size: Remove pedals and turn handlebars sideways or detach them completely.
Protect: Wrap the frame in bubble wrap or foam.
Box or Strap: Ideally, place the bike in a specific bike box. If shipping loose, it must be secured upright to a pallet.
6. Labelling
Placement: Label clearly on at least two sides (ideally all four sides for pallets).
Details: Include Sender/Receiver Name, Address, Phone Number, and Item Count (e.g., "1 of 3").
Old Labels: Remove or cover all old barcodes to prevent misrouting.
7. Prohibited & Restricted Items
The following items are generally not accepted or require special arrangements:
Perishables: Goods requiring temperature control or that may spoil.
Loose Items: Anything not boxed, wrapped, or palletised.
Unpackaged Electronics: Items with exposed circuit boards, screens, or batteries.
Undeclared Dangerous Goods: Including fuel, oil, paint, chemicals, and batteries.