Guide to Packaging and Insurance for Domestic Sea Freight
Domestic sea freight cargo typically undergoes 3–12 days of transportation at sea, during which it is exposed to multiple challenges such as jolting, pressure, and humidity. Improper packaging can significantly increase the risk of cargo damage. This article outlines common packaging requirements and insurance recommendations for domestic sea freight for shippers' reference.
1. Carton Packaging Requirements
| Requirement | Standard | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Palletizing | 1.2m × 1.0m standard pallet | Facilitates forklift loading/unloading |
| Stretch film | At least 4 layers | Moisture protection and prevents scattering |
| Strapping | Cross strapping with plastic steel band | Prevents sliding and collapse |
| Moisture-proof bag | Add moisture-proof bag inside | Humidity in marine environment can reach over 90% |
Moisture Damage Warning: Damp cartons are the most common cause of cargo damage in domestic sea freight. Temperature differences between day and night inside the container generate condensation, and cartons placed directly on the floor are most susceptible to moisture. It is recommended to keep the pallet at least 10 cm off the ground and wrap the entire pallet with stretch film.
2. Wooden Box Packaging Requirements
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Board thickness | ≥12mm (heavy goods ≥15mm) |
| Nailing | Galvanized nails (rust-proof) |
| Internal filling | Foam / bubble wrap to fill gaps |
| Marking | Center of gravity and lifting points |
| Rust prevention | Apply rust-proof oil to metal parts |
3. Packaging Requirements for Bare and Large Items
- Secure with steel wire rope or lashing straps, with no fewer than 4 lashing points
- Add rubber padding at contact points to prevent wear
- Mark the center of gravity position
- Cover the top with waterproof tarpaulin
4. Packaging Case Reference
| Cargo Type | Recommended Packaging Solution | Key Points for Damage Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Bagged rice (20 kg/bag) | Pallet stacking + stretch film + strapping | Add a moisture-proof pallet at the bottom; avoid close contact with container walls |
| Bottled beverages (full cases) | Pallet + stretch film + edge protectors | Fill gaps between cartons with air bags to prevent sliding |
| Machinery and equipment (bare/unpackaged) | Steel wire rope lashing + rubber mats + waterproof tarpaulin | At least 4 lashing points; mark the center of gravity |
| Ceramic floor tiles (boxed) | Wooden crate + foam filling + shockproof label | Separate with foam inside the crate; mark "Fragile" and stacking direction |
| Pipes / profiles (long items) | Steel wire rope bundling + protective caps at both ends | Length must not exceed the interior length of the container; secure both ends |
Common packaging mistakes: ① Stacking cartons directly without pallets; bottom cartons are easily crushed during transport; ② Using ordinary iron nails for wooden crates; rust in high-humidity environments causes the crates to fall apart; ③ Securing only the two ends of bare items, causing the middle to sway and collide during transport; ④ Not filling voids inside the packaging, causing goods to collide and break inside the box.
5. Insurance Advice
Do you need insurance for domestic sea freight? It is recommended. Risks such as cargo damage, moisture damage, and theft during transit are difficult to completely avoid.
- Premium level: Usually a certain percentage of the cargo value; consult your logistics provider or insurance company for specific rates.
- Coverage scope: Loss of cargo caused by natural disasters, accidents, and damage during loading and unloading.
- How to insure: The logistics company can handle it on your behalf.
Insurance tip: When cargo damage occurs, the claim amount is usually far higher than the premium paid. It is recommended to prioritize insurance for high-value cargo.
Further reading: Selection and standards of sea freight packaging compares five packaging methods; Corrugated cardboard boxes for details on carton packaging; Wooden boxes suitable for heavy cargo; Bundled, bagged, and drum/can packaging covers bulk and liquid cargo packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Packaging for Domestic Sea Freight
Q: What kind of packaging is required for domestic sea freight?
A: For cartons, it is recommended to use palletizing + stretch film + cross strapping, keeping them off the ground to prevent moisture; for wooden crates, the board thickness should be no less than 12mm (15mm or more for heavy goods), with internal filling and securing; for bare large pieces, there should be no fewer than 4 lashing points and the center of gravity should be marked. Specific requirements depend on the cargo characteristics and the carrier's instructions.
Q: Does domestic sea freight packaging need fumigation?
A: Domestic sea freight is domestic trade transportation, and generally does not involve export fumigation requirements. However, if the goods need to be exported, solid wood packaging must be fumigated according to the destination country's quarantine regulations and marked with the IPPC logo. Artificial boards such as plywood are generally exempt from fumigation.
Bofeng Logistics specializes in providing one-stop logistics services including domestic container sea freight, international sea freight (FCL/LCL), Hong Kong and Macau logistics dedicated lines, as well as trailer transport, customs declaration, warehousing, etc. Contact number: 130-7567-8958 (Manager Huang), call now for a customized quote!
Disclaimer: This article was compiled by the Bofeng Logistics team and verified as of August 2026. Packaging requirements may change with destination country quarantine regulations, carrier policies and industry standards; always refer to the carrier's current requirements for your shipment.
Related Logistics Services
Bofeng Logistics offers the following related services, feel free to inquire:
