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One of the main causes of e-commerce returns is product damage during transportation. Shipping is a complex process that requires proper planning and organization to ensure successful delivery. A key factor in that success is ensuring that goods arrive safely and without any damage.
This is where Dunnage comes in—essential protective materials that shipping companies rely on to keep packages secure during transport and handling.
What Is Dunnage?
The term Dunnage refers to internal packaging materials used to protect goods and parcels from damage during transportation. These materials act as cushioning or stabilizing barriers around the shipment. They may be made from rigid plastics, bubble wrap, foam peanuts, wood shavings, or other materials.
The more fragile the shipped item is, the more specialized the Dunnage must be to ensure safe delivery.
Types of Dunnage
Dunnage materials vary based on their structure, durability, and the type of goods they are meant to protect. They are generally classified into two categories:
Dunnage for lightweight goods and Dunnage for heavy shipments.
1. Dunnage for Lightweight Goods
Used for small packages that may break or get damaged due to movement during shipping. Common materials include:
Rigid Plastics
High-strength plastic materials used to protect high-value items from damage. They offer excellent durability but are relatively expensive.
Bubble Wrap
A widely used material for protecting glass, fragile items, and easily breakable products. Bubble wrap can be reused as long as the bubbles remain intact.
Air Pillows
Used to fill empty spaces inside shipping boxes and prevent contents from shifting, thereby reducing the risk of damage.
Foam Packaging
Ideal for cushioning sensitive equipment such as electronics, medical devices, and delicate artwork.
Kraft Paper
An eco-friendly, recyclable, and cost-effective option often used to wrap and protect items from impact.
Corrugated Cardboard
Made of a fluted inner layer placed between two stiff outer sheets, it protects packages from pressure, shock, and moisture. It is also a sustainable packaging choice.
2. Dunnage for Heavy Goods
Heavy-duty Dunnage is needed to secure large, bulky, or heavy shipments. Common types include:
Wooden Boards
Used to create barriers or anchors that prevent heavy equipment from shifting during transport.
Steel Dunnage
Ideal for securing high-value or large industrial shipments. Steel provides strong stabilization and prevents heavy items from damaging lighter ones nearby.
3. Custom Dunnage
When a product has an unconventional shape or consists of several components, standard Dunnage may not be sufficient. In these cases, custom Dunnage is manufactured using a combination of materials to ensure maximum protection.
Many major shipping companies, such as FedEx and UPS, provide custom Dunnage solutions.
Benefits of Dunnage
Dunnage plays a vital role in the success of shipping operations. Its main benefits include:
1. Shock Absorption
Shipments transported by land, sea, or air are exposed to vibrations, impacts, and handling stress. Dunnage minimizes these effects and prevents product damage.
2. Water Protection
In sea freight, protective Dunnage is placed on ship floors to elevate cargo above water, preventing moisture-related damage.
3. Moisture Control
Moisture is one of the most damaging factors for cargo. Dunnage materials like paper and cardboard absorb humidity and protect goods from deterioration.
4. Filling Empty Spaces
Air pillows, wooden beams, and foam help stabilize packages by preventing movement inside containers or trucks.
5. Cost Reduction
By choosing the right Dunnage for each product, companies reduce damage rates, minimize returns, and speed up shipping processes—resulting in lower operational costs.
6. Improved Airflow in Refrigerated Containers
Proper Dunnage placement ensures adequate airflow around temperature-sensitive cargo.
7. Even Weight Distribution
Especially important for large items like household furniture, helping maintain balance and stability during transit.
Conclusion
Dunnage is an essential component of the shipping industry. Without it, packaging cannot be effective, and cargo is far more likely to be damaged during transport. Whether shipped by sea, road, air, or rail, Dunnage ensures the stability and safety of goods.
Shipping companies must choose the right material for each package—a decision that highlights the importance of their experience and expertise.
Using the proper Dunnage reduces the likelihood of product damage, protects customer satisfaction, and strengthens trust in the shipping process.