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This method is popular among food importers. Profit margins are often thin when maximizing every inch of space for shipping is vital. How effectively containers were loaded can have a significant impact on the cost to unload it.
1. Quantity of SKU’s and LOT’s
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Keep it Simple. Ideally, each container should be loaded with 1 SKU & 1 LOT. But why?
A 3PL warehouse will typically require that each pallet contain only 1 Lot/Sku. When storing food, it is necessary to only store 1 Lot/Sku per pallet in the event of recall.
If you have a variety of item types in one container, it will take more time to carefully inspect each case to determine what Lot/Sku it is. Each differing item also needs to be placed on its own pallet for storage.
2. Distinct Packaging
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Differentiate. If limiting the number of SKUs and LOTs isn’t possible, clearly identifying product is a must.
When shipping multiple Lot/Sku’s on a container, ensuring that each different item is clearly identifiable is important – many customers will use distinct color packaging or markings to differentiate each item.
In addition, each case should be clearly marked with what it is – this can include item name/number, description, expiration date, Lot code, and/or production date. Handling costs could increase if packages aren’t clearly identifiable!
3. Quality Case Material
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Durability is Key. Use material that will withstand the containers journey over the water.
A warehouse segregating damaged cases will result in additional time and labor – thus resulting in more fees
If the content inside the cases happens to spill out, this could lead to a container being rejected – especially in a food warehouse. If it is accepted, the container will need to be cleaned, and the product more than likely disposed of.
Floor loaded containers is a very cost-effective method of shipping. Understanding the details provided here along with other shipping and warehouse related costs will help you in making the best decision for you company.