In international B2B trade, packaging directly determines shipping safety and customs clearance efficiency. Here is a complete guide to four common packaging types.
Why packaging matters
International shipping involves high humidity, multiple loading and unloading, and road vibrations. Incorrect packaging can lead to cargo damage, customs delays, handling difficulties, and higher freight costs.
Palletized cargo
Goods stacked on standard pallets and secured with stretch film and strapping. Suitable for LCL, FCL, and items over 30kg.
North American standard: 48x40 inches (approx 1219x1016mm). European and Asian standard: 1200x800mm.
Key requirements for palletizing
- Bottom fork height at least 10cm, accessible from all four sides
- No overhang beyond 5cm
- Heaviest items at the bottom, interlocking stack
- Minimum 3 layers of stretch film plus strapping
- Wooden pallets must comply with ISPM 15 with IPPC stamp
Wooden crates
Rigid box packaging made of solid wood or plywood. Suitable for heavy equipment over 500kg, precision instruments, and large molds.
Crate design requirements
- Board thickness at least 0.8cm to 1cm
- Bottom runners required for over 500kg
- Hinges and locks for customs inspection access
- Fork spacing at least 70cm
- Corner reinforcement for structural strength
- ISPM 15 compliance: All solid wood packaging must be heat-treated to 56 degrees Celsius core temperature for 30 minutes with IPPC stamp. Plywood is exempt.
Wooden frames
Open-structure timber frames for bundling multiple cartons or protecting scratch-prone goods.
Frame reinforcement requirements
- X-bracing on all four sides
- Inner cartons wrapped with minimum 3 layers of stretch film
- Fork height at least 10cm
- Items over 100kg should use wooden crates instead
Flight cases
Heavy-duty transport cases for high-value precision equipment, made of plywood, aluminum edges, and shock-absorbing foam.
Core requirements
- Aluminum edges plus plywood panels for impact resistance
- Custom foam interior to secure cargo
- Casters preferred; cases without casters need a bottom pallet base
- Hinges and locks on all sides for customs inspection
Quick selection guide
- Under 30kg: carton packaging
- 30kg to 100kg: pallet or frame recommended
- Over 100kg: must use wooden crate on pallet
- Over 500kg: crate must have bottom runners
- Precision instruments or high value: flight case preferred
- Heavy machinery or equipment: wooden crate (solid wood or plywood)
- Multiple cartons: wooden frame or pallet with stretch film