Shipping worldwide can be complicated, especially with all the international shipping requirements. Building a crate for a global shipping project is just one part of the process, and it’s crucial to get it right. If you’re building your own shipping crates, this post on how to build a crate for international shipping will give you all the information you need to do it like the pros.
How To Build a Crate for Shipping Machinery and Equipment Overseas
You’re sending something across the ocean, and you’ve decided to take on the project of building the crate yourself. This may initially appear intimidating, however we’re here to help with our step-by-step process. Materials and supplies you may need to make your crate (amount and sizes will vary based on your item):
- 4 pieces of plywood or ISPM-15 certified wood
- ISPM-15 certified wood boards 2”x6”x80”
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Electric saw
- Drill
- 5 sheets of Styrofoam board
- 2 extra-large rolls of bubble wrap
- 1 roll of strapping tape
- Plastic wrap
8 Steps for Building Your Wooden Crate:
1. Measure the item you’re shipping
You must know the exact size of the item to be shipped to allow for the proper space for packaging materials and ensure there’s no room for the item to move around while in transit. You should account for three to four inches of foam or bubble wrap on each side of the crate and any other cushioning or bracing materials needed within the box.
2. Weigh the item
Knowing the item’s weight is important to ensure the crate base is strong enough to support it.
3. Determine the packing material
Figure out the best way to protect the asset, including any cushioning and bracing.
4. Cut the boards
If you need to cut down your plywood or ISPM-15 certified wood, saw your boards to the appropriate size and ensure each corner is at a right angle to lessen the risk of damage.
5. Assemble the crate
Secure the boards together using screws and wood glue. If necessary, consider adding wood boards on the bottom of the crate to better support the weight of your item. Secure wood boards with screws or glue. Add a horizontal support to the closed end of the crate.
6. Add packaging materials
Line each side of the box with at least three inches of packing material, using cushioning such as foam inserts or bubble wrap.
7. Enclose the item
After the item has been properly wrapped, set it inside the container, ensuring that it fits tight and that all areas are full, with no voids that could shift during transit and allow for movement.
8. Install the final side
Once the item is secure, screw the final side of the crate in place.
How to Build a Crate for International Shipping:
Requirements
International shipping has different rules than domestic shipping, so it’s important to follow them so your items don’t get turned away at their destination. Working with an experienced global crating and shipping company will help you navigate the shipping process and ensure your crate meets all requirements.
Some things to consider with your international shipping project include:
- ISPM 15 stamp
Most countries require wooden crates to have an ISPM-15 stamp, also called a bug stamp. This stamp certifies that the wood used to make the crate is free of pests, fungi, and insects. The ISPM-15 stamp is part of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and has been signed by over 180 countries. Without the stamp, your item may be destroyed, so this is essential to your international shipment. - Dimensions
Shipping companies may have restrictions on crate size, so be sure to contact the shippers you’re working with to make sure you don’t get any surprises. Craters & Freighters Nashville does not have weight and size restrictions. However, you should have the item dimensions readily available and correct for quoting purposes. - Documents
International shipments require essential documents that may include:- Bill of lading
- Invoices
- Certificate of origin
- Certificate of insurance
These documents are customary, and your shipping company should be able to provide them easily.
Engineering Excellence in Crate Design and Construction
Inside our crating design and construction process:
- Client consultation: We start by understanding each client’s specific needs and budget.
- Comprehensive item evaluation: Factors such as dimensions, weight, and transportation method guide our design process.
- Collaborative in-house expertise: Our design and engineering teams work together using advanced technology.
Crate construction: We use high-quality, ISPM-15-certified wood and durable components.- Secure tailored packaging: We package crates carefully for safe transit and storage.
- Clear labeling: Crates are marked with handling instructions for proper delivery.
- Documentation process: We handle all documentation for an efficient process.
FAQs: How to Build a Crate for International Shipping
What kind of wood materials do I need for an international shipping crate?
Use quality ISPM-15 certified lumber with few knots. Avoid MDF, OSB, and particleboard.Do I need to label my shipment?
Labeling helps handlers understand how to manage your crate, especially for fragile items.
Craters & Freighters Nashville: Your Dependable Choice for Global Shipping
Don’t want to build it yourself? We’d love the opportunity to answer any other questions or concerns you have about your international crate engineering project or shipment needs. Our professionals partner with many businesses and organizations, getting their assets where they need to be, on time, within budget, and in working order.
Our Solutions Include:
- Custom crating
- On-site crating
- Reusable wood crates
- Custom packaging
- International shipping
- Rigging services
- Cargo insurance
Let us make your global shipment a success. Contact us with any questions or concerns, or tell us about your project, and Craters & Freighters Nashville will provide a tailored quote to meet your needs.