Transport is one of the most important factors when choosing a cardboard box. It is not the same a local shipment as an international shipment, nor an air transport as a maritime one. On the other hand, each product is different, with different conditions affecting the resistance and protection necessary for transport.
A packaging that ignores the conditions of transport can cause deformations in the boxes, damage to the product and problems in logistics with additional costs. On the contrary, a cardboard box designed with the conditions of transport and the environment in mind, guarantee that our product will arrive in perfect condition.
Local and international transport
In local short-distance shipments, the product usually goes through fewer stages of handling. A shorter journey involves transport time and a lower risk. In these cases, packaging can be lighter and less robust, provided the product is not fragile or heavy. Simple channel corrugated cardboard boxes are more economical if the transport and storage of products do not require special conditions.
Single channel, double-wall corrugated cardboard or triple channel. The resistance of corrugated cardboard is an important factor in the design of our packaging.
However, in international transport logistics is often more complex. Shipments travel long distances, pass through several loading and unloading points and stay for much longer stored. In addition, they are often exposed to changes in temperature, humidity, or prolonged stacking.
Carton used in international transport must offer structural resistance and durable protection.
Choosing the right packaging depending on the transport helps to reduce damage and ensures that the product arrives in perfect condition, regardless of the distance travelled.
Air and sea transport: two different environments
Air transport is fast, but it has demands. Although the time is shorter, the goods are subjected to more manipulations (we have all seen how our bags are treated) and weight restrictions. Therefore, the packaging must be resistant, but at the same time light and adjusted to the product in order to avoid movement.
In maritime transport, the length of the journey is longer. Boxes can stay in containers for weeks, subject to humidity, temperature changes and vibrations. The handling is less, but the cardboard must be prepared to withstand more demanding environmental conditions and maintain its resistance for longer.
Understanding these differences allows you to select the most suitable type of cardboard and avoid problems arising from a poorly designed packaging.
Factors affecting the strength of cardboard packaging
Regardless of the type of transport, there are factors that directly influence the behaviour of packaging during transport.
The stacking capacity is one of the most important. During storage and transport, boxes are usually placed on top of each other, bearing weight for days. A cardboard with the right resistance prevents deformations and protects the contents.
The Vibration during transport is another element to take into account. Continuous movements can cause internal displacement, friction or impacts between products. A well designed packaging, with interior compartments, helps absorb vibrations and keep the product protected.
The moisture is especially critical on sea routes. Carton is a resistant material, but its behavior may be affected if the appropriate type of cardboard and treatment for each situation are not selected.
Packaging as part of logistics strategy
Choose the cardboard box adequate is not a random decision, but an essential part of the logistics strategy of any company. Analyzing the type of transport, the length of the journey and the conditions to which the packaging and the product it contains will be exposed allows designing efficient, safe and sustainable packaging solutions.
Well-adapted packaging reduces returns, improves customer experience and optimizes operational costs.
If you need a carton packaging that adapts to the type of transport of your product, our team can help you find the best solution.
