How to Reduce Shipment Damage

At Forte Frozen, we know that shipping goods can be a tricky process, as there are many potential hazards that can cause damage to products. We take pride in our third party logistics services, providing efficiency in the cold chain process from start to finish for all of our clients. With us, you can guarantee your goods will be safe when shipping and we want to share our knowledge and best practices! See below for tips on how to actively reduce shipping damage.

Be sure to use proper packaging.

One of the most effective ways to reduce shipment damage is to ensure that your products are properly packaged. This means using the right size and type of box or container, as well as using appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or air pillows. You can also use corrugated boxes. Corrugated boxes provide an extra layer of protection for your products as they are made from several layers of paperboard that absorb shocks and vibrations, which helps to protect your products from damage. Cheating on packaging is noticeable to your customer and is an easy fix that you can make by putting in a little more time and effort.

Focus on proper labeling.

The proper labeling and marking of your packages can help to ensure that they are handled with care during transit. Be sure to clearly label your packages with the contents, destination, and any other relevant information such as "Fragile" or "This Side Up."

Choose the correct shipping method.

Choosing the correct shipping method for your product is crucial because it can very much impact the risk of damage to your products. For example, shipping by air may be more reliable than shipping by ground if a package is fragile, as air cargo is typically handled with more care. Again, this is not something you want to “cheap out,” on. Your customers will question whether the correct shipping method was used if a package arrives damaged, so be sure to set yourself up for success ahead of time.

Inspect goods before shipping.

Before shipping, it is important to inspect the products to make sure they are in good condition. Be sure to look for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or tears. If you notice any damage, it is best to address it before shipping to avoid further damage during transit. Doing this will prevent your customer from noticing the damage first, which could prevent them from taking other actions such as angrily calling or writing a bad online review for your company.

Choose the right carrier.

Just like choosing the right shipping method, it is also important to choose the right carrier. Before deciding, conduct some research and choose a reputable carrier that specializes in handling the type of product you are shipping. They will be experienced and more equipped to handle the specific needs of the product. 

Be sure to use pallets.

Pallets are portable platforms used for handling, storing, and shipping products and they provide many benefits. A pallet provides a sturdy base for stacking multiple items, and it's constructed to make it easy to move with a forklift or pallet jack. Using pallets to ship your goods can provide an added layer of protection and help to reduce the risk of damage during transit.

Track and trace your packages.

Implement a track and trace system that will allow you to monitor the location and condition of your products during transit. This can help you to identify and address any issues that may arise during shipping and will give you the chance to correct them before reaching the end destination. A track and trace system would also be a nice detail to share with clients.

Provide detailed instructions to the carrier.

Provide clear and accurate instructions to the carrier that you choose regarding the handling and transportation of your products. Specify any special handling requirements, such as temperature controls or specific loading and unloading instructions. Keep a record of this in writing, whether it be a phone transcript or email chain that you can look back on if any damages occur. 

The steps listed above are sure to help you reduce shipment damages. By taking these steps, you can reduce the risk of shipment damage and ensure that your products arrive at their destination in good condition. It is always better to be proactive and take preventative measures to ensure the safety of the goods during transit.

Did you know that Forte Frozen’s team is dedicated to keeping your shipments safe and stored at the correct temperatures? It’s true - and it’s easy to work with us! Contact us here to talk to one of our team members about how we can help get your products safely to where they need to be in the United States.