You plan to ship heavyweight items out of Vietnam but don’t know where to start? This guide by DHL Express details the intricacies of shipping large items internationally, making it an informative resource for business owners’ strategic planning.
Special attention for shipping heavyweight items
Shipping heavy items— typically weighing at least 70 kg —requires more meticulous planning and specialised handling than the regular lightweight shipments. From packaging requirements to the actual physical movement of goods from the warehouse, extra care is necessary.
Tips for shipping heavyweight items internationally
Given the rising prominence of Vietnam's international express delivery industry, businesses must understand best practices for shipping heavyweight items internationally. Tactics like segmenting shipments into smaller packages and utilising pallets that meet aviation regulations can be advantageous. Being well-informed about Vietnam's aviation legal framework, including guidelines for shipment handling and environmental safety, is essential.
Navigating the complexities of heavyweight international shipping allows businesses and logistics companies to manage their delivery needs with the right expertise and attention to detail. In this evolving landscape, staying informed and aligned with a reliable logistics partner can make all the difference.
1. Break up packages into separate big boxes for shipment
Breaking up heavy cargo into smaller boxes offers multiple advantages, particularly in the context of heavyweight shipping. It simplifies the handling process within the warehouse. Smaller boxes are easier to manoeuvre compared to bigger ones, reducing the risk of workplace injuries and expediting the process of preparing items for shipment.
Subdividing cargo is the most economical approach. Instead of incurring the extra costs often associated with shipping heavy items as a single unit, you can leverage standard shipping methods and costs for lighter packages. This often makes it the cheapest way to ship heavy items.
Finally, breaking up packages allows for more efficient use of container space. It can be easier to optimise the arrangement of smaller boxes within a shipping container, thereby conforming to international shipping instructions about container size and weight limitations. This efficient use of space saves costs and adheres to the regulations and guidelines set forth by shipping companies.
2. Use pallets appropriately
Selecting between wooden, plastic, and cardboard pallets
The choice between wooden, plastic, and cardboard pallets is pivotal. Wooden pallets are sturdy but heavy; plastic pallets are lighter and durable but costly; cardboard pallets are affordable but unsuitable for all heavyweight items. While selecting, keep in mind DHL Express Vietnam's maximum allowable pallet dimensions: a width of 200 cm, a length of 120 cm, and a height of up to 160 cm.
Pallet stacking methods
When stacking your items on a pallet, you have two options: column stacking and interlocking stacking. The column method aligns each layer of goods directly above the one below, providing stability but less efficient use of space. Interlocking involves alternating the goods' direction and optimising container size while maintaining reasonable stability. Proper stacking is essential for reducing the risk of damage during international transportation, and it is best to avoid incorrect stacking methods such as pyramid shapes and overhang.
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