Indonesia holds a significant position in the global economy, ranking sixteenth in terms of nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as of 2024, according to Statista. Interestingly, in January 2024 alone, the country's exports reached US$20.52 billion, as reported by BPS-Statistics Indonesia. This robust economic and trade landscape is particularly notable for its substantial exports of fragile products.
For instance, based on the BACI database by CEPII, in 2022, Indonesia was the 26th largest exporter of electrical machinery and electronics globally, with exports totalling US$17.4 billion. The jewellery industry also made a notable impact, exporting US$2.52 billion worth of goods and ranking as the 12th largest jewellery exporter globally.
Beyond electronics and jewellery, Indonesia exports a variety of fragile items, including artwork, collectables, and specialised food products. This extensive diversity necessitates that businesses in the fragile goods sector adopt innovative packaging and shipping practices to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of their goods globally.
To support this endeavour, we've gathered essential insights and strategies to help businesses master the art of packing and shipping fragile items overseas, ensuring they uphold and enhance Indonesia's reputation as a leading exporter committed to quality and reliability.
Key factors to consider when shipping fragile items overseas from Indonesia
Shipping fragile items overseas involves considering a range of important factors to guarantee a successful delivery:
- Climate resilience: When shipping overseas from Indonesia, it's essential to consider both Indonesia’s tropical climate and the climate of the destination country. Abrupt shifts to colder or drier conditions during transit can lead to condensation or contraction of packaging materials, further risking harm to fragile items.
- Geographic logistics: Indonesia's geography includes rugged mountains and over 17,500 islands, which complicates shipping operations. These geographic features can cause inconsistent local transport conditions, such as rough sea transits and variable road quality, which extend the transit times and challenges as fragile goods move from these diverse regions to international destinations.
- Sustainable packaging materials: Using locally sourced, sustainable materials, such as bamboo fibre, recycled paper, or biodegradable packing peanuts for packing fragile items aligns with Indonesia’s commitment to the "Sustainable Development Goals." These eco-friendly options not only offer robust protection for fragile goods but also reduce environmental impact and enhance the eco-conscious reputation of businesses.
- Precision in packaging: Accurate measurement and careful weight assessment are critical for effectively packing fragile items. This ensures that each package is tailored to its contents, avoiding unnecessary bulk and weight that can increase overseas shipping costs and risk damage during handling and transit.
How to pack fragile items for shipping?
Follow these shipment instructions for fragile items to ensure your delicate goods arrive safely and intact.
1. Material selection
When packing fragile items, it's important to choose materials that match the unique characteristics of each item.
For jewellery shipping and packaging, consider using soft cloths and durable boxes to protect against scratches and impacts. For glassware, bubble wrap and rigid, compartmentalised boxes are essential to prevent breakage.
Adapting to the nature of each item ensures that the fragile packing materials effectively mitigate any potential damage specific to the item's vulnerabilities during transit.
2. Cushioning and protection
For optimal protection, start with a base layer of soft material like bubble wrap, ensuring it wraps entirely around the fragile item.
Next, secure the item within its container using expanding foam packaging, which moulds to the shape of the item, providing superior shock absorption. For example, when shipping a delicate porcelain vase, the expanding foam will contour around its curves and edges, ensuring it remains immobile and cushioned from any impacts during transit.
Finally, add a final layer of cushioning, such as packing peanuts or additional bubble wrap, to fill any remaining gaps in the box, further stabilising the item and safeguarding it against jostles and vibrations during shipping.
3. Securing and sealing
After securing the fragile item inside the package, use packing foam spray along the inner or outer edges and corners to create an airtight seal, enhancing the barrier against moisture and dust. Next, seal the box with strong, water-resistant tape, covering all seams and openings to ensure the contents are fully protected from external elements throughout transit.
4. Labelling and final checks
Once everything is securely packed, apply a "handle with care fragile" label on all sides of the package to highlight its delicate contents before shipping. By marking the item’s packaging with fragile stickers, you further emphasise the need for careful handling during transport, ensuring that all parties are aware of the package’s sensitivity.
Navigating shipping and customs complexities
The complexities of shipping fragile items overseas extend beyond strategic packaging. Once you've ensured the physical safety of your items with the appropriate packaging techniques, the next critical step is to select a reliable logistics provider.
It’s important to choose one that not only specialises in handling delicate shipments but also possesses extensive knowledge and experience in providing import and export services. The right courier will have a deep understanding of the legal and logistical nuances across different countries, which is indispensable for navigating the challenges of customs clearance efficiently.
This expertise is pivotal in preventing delays and ensuring that your shipments comply with all international standards, thereby facilitating a smoother journey from origin to destination.
Moreover, leveraging Indonesia’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can also provide significant advantages, such as reduced tariffs and simplified customs processes, helping to streamline operations and reduce costs. These elements collectively ensure that the shipment of fragile items is managed effectively.
DHL Express: Your partner in shipping fragile items overseas
Ensuring your fragile exports are properly packaged and shipped not only upholds Indonesia's reputation for high-quality products but also enhances your business's credibility, as it shows your dedication to quality and customer or client satisfaction. This commitment is vital as you start exporting overseas and expand your international footprint.
To effectively support your expansion into new markets, consider partnering with DHL Express Indonesia for comprehensive import and export logistics assistance. As a leading name in global logistics, we specialise in carefully handling fragile items, ensuring they reach their destinations in perfect condition.
Additionally, our extensive network, covering over 220 countries and territories, along with a knowledgeable customs team, ensures that your shipments are compliant with international regulations. This strategic partnership allows you to navigate global shipping challenges with greater ease and confidence.
Ensure your fragile items are shipped safely and efficiently by opening a business account with DHL Express Indonesia today and leveraging our expert international shipping services to expand your reach and grow your business globally.
