Glossary for Crating and Industrial Packaging
Export Packaging Terms
Barrier Bag
A sealed moisture-resistant packaging system, typically made from aluminium laminate material, used to protect equipment against humidity, moisture ingress, and corrosion during storage or export transit.
Corrosion Protection
Protective packaging methods used to prevent rust and oxidation during shipping or long-term storage.
Desiccant
Moisture-absorbing material placed inside packaging or barrier bags to reduce humidity and prevent condensation.
Export Packing
Industrial packaging specifically designed to protect equipment during international transportation and export handling conditions.
Freight Foil
A vapour barrier packaging material used to seal and protect cargo against moisture, dust, and contaminants during export transit.
Heat Shrink Encapsulation
A packaging method where equipment is sealed using heavy-duty heat shrink plastic for weatherproofing and transport protection.
ISPM 15
An international regulation requiring timber packaging used in export shipping to be heat treated in order to prevent the spread of pests and diseases between countries.
Marine Packing
Packaging specifically designed for sea freight environments where cargo may be exposed to humidity, salt air, and long transit periods.
Moisture Barrier
Protective packaging materials designed to prevent moisture ingress into packaged cargo.
VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor)
A corrosion prevention system that releases protective vapours to reduce rust formation on metal components.
Weatherproof Packaging
Packaging designed to protect equipment against rain, UV exposure, dust, and environmental conditions during transport or storage.
Crating & Timber Packaging Terms
Airfreight Crate
A lightweight crate designed to reduce shipping weight while still protecting cargo during air transport.
Base Skid
A heavy-duty timber or steel platform used to support machinery and allow forklift handling.
Blocking & Bracing
Internal supports used to secure cargo inside crates or containers to prevent movement during transport.
Bolt-Down Points
Securing locations where equipment is mechanically fixed to a skid or crate base.
Case / Export Case
A fully enclosed timber or plywood container designed for export shipping.
Cleats
Timber reinforcement strips attached to crate panels to improve strength and fastening.
Cradle Support
A shaped support structure designed to securely hold cylindrical or irregular equipment.
Dunnage
Loose timber or support materials used to stabilize and protect cargo.
Forklift Pockets
Openings built into a skid or crate base to allow forklift access and handling.
Heavy Duty Crate
A reinforced export crate designed for heavy machinery or high-load applications.
Open Crate
A partially enclosed crate used where full enclosure is unnecessary but structural protection is still required.
Pallet
A flat transport platform used for stacking, handling, and transporting goods.
Panel Crate
A crate constructed using removable or sectional panels for easier assembly or access.
Plywood Case
An export case manufactured primarily from plywood panels.
Skid
A timber or steel support base used for handling and transporting equipment.
Slatted Crate
A partially open timber crate allowing airflow and visibility while still protecting the cargo.
Timber Bearers
Heavy timber support sections located beneath a skid or crate base.
Wooden Crate
A timber-built protective structure used for industrial shipping and export packaging.
Rigging & Lifting Terms
Anchor Point
A designated securing point used during lifting, lashing, or transport operations.
Centre of Gravity (COG)
The balance point of equipment or cargo, critical for safe lifting and transport planning.
Crane Lift
The lifting or positioning of equipment using a crane.
Lift Plan
A documented procedure outlining how heavy equipment will be safely lifted or moved.
Lifting Lugs
Built-in attachment points used for lifting machinery or equipment.
Rated Capacity
The maximum load a lifting device or component is certified to handle safely.
Rigging
The process of lifting, moving, positioning, and securing heavy equipment.
Sling
A lifting device made from chain, wire rope, or synthetic webbing used during rigging operations.
Spreader Bar
A lifting beam used to distribute lifting forces evenly across a load.
Tandem Lift
A lift involving two cranes operating simultaneously to move a load.
Working Load Limit (WLL)
The maximum safe working load of lifting or securing equipment.
Shipping & Logistics Terms
Airfreight
The transportation of cargo by aircraft.
Cargo Securing
Methods used to restrain cargo during transportation, including lashing, blocking, and bracing.
CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)
An international trade term where the seller is responsible for shipping, insurance, and freight costs to the destination port.
Container Packing
The process of loading and securing cargo inside a shipping container.
EXW (Ex Works)
An international trade term where the buyer is responsible for transport from the seller’s premises.
Flat Rack (FR)
A specialized shipping container without side walls or a roof, used for oversized cargo.
Gross Weight
The total shipping weight including cargo and packaging.
Lashing
The use of straps, chains, or cables to secure cargo during transport.
Packing List
A document detailing the contents, dimensions, and weights of shipped cargo.
Sea Freight
The transportation of cargo by sea using shipping containers or breakbulk vessels.
Shock Indicator
A device attached to packaging that indicates excessive impact during handling or transport.
Tilt Indicator
A monitoring device that indicates whether cargo has been tilted beyond a specified angle.
Transit Protection
Protective packaging measures used to reduce the risk of transport damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a skid and a pallet?
A pallet is typically used for general cargo handling and warehousing, while a skid is a heavier-duty support base designed for machinery and industrial equipment.
Why is ISPM 15 important?
ISPM 15 compliance is required for timber packaging used in international shipping and helps prevent customs issues and rejected cargo.
What is a barrier bag used for?
Barrier bags are used to protect machinery and sensitive equipment against moisture and corrosion during export transit or storage.
What is the difference between airfreight and sea freight packaging?
Airfreight packaging is typically lighter to reduce freight costs, while sea freight packaging is designed for longer transit times and higher moisture exposure.
Why are desiccants used in export packaging?
Desiccants absorb moisture inside sealed packaging to reduce condensation and prevent corrosion.