Small parts are usually packed in layers. They go into bags, the bags go into inner boxes, the boxes go into master cartons, and the cartons go on pallets that are strapped and stretch-wrapped. Steel parts that can rust also need a corrosion inhibitor, usually VCI.
The aim is to stop rust, damage and mixing for a sea voyage that may last several weeks, through heat and humidity.
The packing layers
- Primary packing is the bag, tray or blister that touches the part. VCI bags suit bare or lightly oiled steel. Plain poly bags suit plated and brass parts.
- Inner boxes hold a fixed count of parts so you can sell or issue them without recounting.
- Master cartons hold several inner boxes. Five-ply corrugated board is common for heavy parts.
- Pallets carry the cartons. Solid wood pallets must meet ISPM-15, as explained in export packing and ISPM-15.
- Strapping, corner boards and stretch film hold the load together.
Stopping rust
VCI, or volatile corrosion inhibitor, releases a vapour that forms a thin protective layer on metal. It works only in a closed space, so the bag must be sealed. The mechanism is covered in what VCI packing is.
Parts should be clean, dry and cool before packing. Packing warm parts straight from the washer traps moisture. Desiccant bags in the carton or container help in humid seasons.
Avoid touching bare steel with sweaty hands, because fingerprints start rust spots. Packers should wear gloves, and parts should not wait uncovered on the floor before bagging. Do not mix VCI bags with brass parts unless the VCI grade suits non-ferrous metals.
Stopping damage and mixing
- Do not overfill cartons. Heavy cartons burst and crush the layers below.
- Separate parts with fine threads or ground surfaces so they do not knock against each other.
- Keep one part number and one lot per carton unless you agree otherwise.
- Keep the gross weight per carton within what a person can lift safely, or use bins and forklifts.
- Pack pallets to fit the container floor with little empty space, then block any gaps.
- Mark each carton with its gross weight and handling signs, such as keep dry and this way up.
Returnable and customer packaging
Auto customers may ask for their own boxes or for plastic bins, such as small-load carriers. These are common in Europe. Agree in advance who supplies them and how they come back, because returning empty bins from abroad is costly.
Labels on each layer matter as much as the packing itself. See auto parts labelling and barcoding for the details.
Next step
We agree the packing specification with your supplier and check it during loading supervision. Book a free sourcing review to set the packing for your parts.