What to do to avoid damage in cargo transport in Gulf Ports?

Cargo transport is an activity that inevitably involves risks. The problems faced in this regard range from difficulties with roads and vehicles to damage and breakdowns in products, including robbery and theft.

However, it is possible to work to reduce these difficulties and avoid damage in cargo transportation. In addition to contracting cargo insurance, there are good practices and precautions to be taken to prevent the goods from being compromised.

Want to know how to avoid damage to your products? So check out these tips!

Plan freight transport:

The habit of planning can optimize cargo transportation in several aspects. First, by knowing exactly when the truck or other vehicle needs to leave, crews will be able to schedule timely shipments.

On the other hand, when the shipment is made at the last minute and in a hurry, the chances of damaging the goods are greater.

The planning also serves to think about the correct order of placing the products. In this way, the heavier goods will not damage the lighter ones and the space in the vehicle will be used in the best possible way.

Finally, the planning must also include the routes to be taken. The type and fragility of the product to be transported need to be taken into account when choosing the means of transport to be used and the routes to be taken. Get in touch with us for LEEA APLO Course

Pack the products properly:

Packaging must be suitable for the type of product, cover the item completely and be resistant to transportation. At the same time, they need to have a simple opening procedure, so that the customer himself does not spoil the product by opening the package.

If there are small parts, such as screws, or sharp parts, they need to be packed correctly so as not to cause scratches on other parts or end up puncturing the package.

For the more fragile items, it’s worth investing even more. Use bubble wrap, foam whenever necessary.

Arrange items correctly in the vehicle:

The organization of items in the vehicle is a basic item, but one that often ends up being left out, either due to lack of time or attention. To avoid damage during the transport of loads, organize the goods properly in the vehicle body.

The heaviest items always go underneath. When possible, fill the vehicle completely so that there are no empty spots. Thus, the cargo will not have room to move during transport.

If this is not possible, use other devices, such as tying the goods or using air-filled plastic bags to fill in the empty spaces.

In addition, during loading, maximum stacking instructions must be observed, so that the packages do not end up crumpling and damaging the goods.

Use proper equipment and tools:

Some tools and equipment can help a lot in reducing the risk of breakage or damage. You can adopt, for example:

• Impact indicators to measure whether any part of the cargo has suffered shocks or collisions;
• Cardboard or plastic corners to give extra protection to the boxes;
• Use of wooden pallets to optimize cargo handling;
• Forklift trucks for safer and faster loading and unloading.

Avoid moisture and prepare the load for temperature variations:

Moisture and temperature changes can cause damage to goods. In addition to protecting the cargo from rain, changes in the weather also need to be taken into account.

When items are transported over longer distances and experience temperature variations, a phenomenon known as cargo sweating is common — water vapor ends up building up on the goods.

To end these two problems, wrap the load with materials that are resistant to water and that avoid contact with rain. As for climate change, use desiccants to capture any moisture.

Train transport and logistics personnel:

Awareness of the transport and logistics team is critical to ensure that shipments and deliveries are successful. Therefore, constantly train drivers, loaders and other professionals involved in these activities.

They need to be instructed on the equipment to be used, the best handling practices and the procedures for receiving and delivering goods.

Use vehicles in Good Condition:

Vehicles used for transportation must be in good condition and up to date with maintenance. Thus, it is possible to avoid problems such as breakdowns, which can delay delivery and compromise perishable cargo, or damage to the bodywork, which can cause exposure to rain or sun.

The cleanliness of the cargo compartment must also be observed. Likewise, especially for more fragile products, the condition of the suspension system, brakes and tires must be observed to ensure transport with less impact.

Handle cargo with care during loading and unloading:

Many damages occur when placing or removing boxes and packages from the vehicle. In order not to run risks, handling during loading and unloading must be done in a responsible and attentive manner.

Packages should never be thrown over each other and loading must be done by trained personnel using the correct equipment.

Hire a reliable carrier:

Outsourcing transport is a very popular practice in industrial and commercial activities in UAE. When the operation is carried out by a reliable carrier, this practice can bring many benefits to both parties.

Therefore, when hiring a carrier, research its reputation and look for quality service, a well-trained team and a fleet in good condition. In this way, the carrier will act as a partner to prevent damage during the transport of your products.

As you already know, cargo transport is a complex activity and requires a lot of dedication from the professionals involved. Now you have seen that, fortunately, with some precautions, preventive measures and the right partners, it is possible to reduce risks and avoid damage to goods!