Items You Should Never Pack In A Cargo Shipping Container
If you’re planning an international move, a shipping container can be your best friend. Loading up a container is often the best way to get all of your belongings overseas. Not only can shipping containers hold a lot, but they also can keep your items safe during transit.
However, you can’t simply throw everything you own into a shipping container and be on your way. You must think twice before you pack certain items. Some of your personal belongings shouldn’t go into a shipping container. Some items may be risky for the following reasons:
- They can create dangerous situations during transit.
- They may be vulnerable to theft or damage.
- They may be prohibited by customs.
To help you plan your international move, here are some items you should never pack in a cargo shipping container.
Perishable Items
Shipping your belongings overseas can take a while. It may be several weeks before your items are unloaded at your destination. For this reason, it should be obvious that any perishable goods such as food should not be packed into your shipping container. There are special refrigerated containers that may be used to ship medicine or other vitally important perishables. However, it’s best to leave behind the contents of your freezer.
Explosive Items
Any items that could potentially explode or burst into flame should not be packed into cargo containers. This includes:
- Pressurized aerosol spray cans
- Some types of batteries
- Fireworks
- Firearms or ammunition
If any of these items are found by customs, your shipment can be detained. Check with the agent handling your move to find out how you should ship firearms and/or ammunition.
Agricultural Items
Many countries have strict laws protecting their local biodiversity. This means anything that could introduce invasive species of plants or animals is prohibited. Plants, seeds and soil from your country of origin should be kept out of your shipping container for this reason. If you will be bringing yard or garden tools with you, be sure to clean them thoroughly before packing. The presence of dirt on those items could raise a red flag with customs.
Valuable Items
Shipping items internationally in a cargo container is very safe overall. However, a lot can happen during the process. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep certain valuable items out of your container. These may include any jewelry or other belongings with personal significance for you. You also should avoid packing your passport or other important documents. Expensive electronics such as laptop computers and TVs also should be kept out of your container because of the small chance they may be damaged. It’s generally advised that these valuable items travel with you, where you can keep an eye on them.
Knowing what you should and shouldn’t pack in a cargo container can help make your international move go smoothly. Having a shipping company you can trust makes it a lot easier, too. Trans Global Auto Logistics has more than 30 years of experience in the freight forwarding industry. Give us a call today to learn how we can help you.
