Accurate labelling plays crucial role

The importance of secure, appropriate and protective packaging cannot be overestimated in light of the rigorous handling to which cargo is exposed. According to Patricia Simons, general manager Cape Town for Intermodal Cargo Solutions (ICS), the packaging must be appropriate to the cargo being moved and may take the form of wooden crates, metal boxes, drums and corrugated cardboard boxes to name a few. “Cargo that arrives at its destination damaged ultimately has a major cost impact on the supply chain. “It will most likely not be sold and financial claims will then need to be settled. We have many instances where inadequately packaged cargo is received into our warehouse and requires repackaging and reinforcement to avoid damage in transport,” she says. Another important aspect of packaging, she points out, is accurate and sufficient labelling. “It is vital to display cautionary marks (eg, fragile) as well as weights for guidance on how to handle the cargo. Secondly, labelling must comply with shipping regulations. For example the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) states that it is the responsibility of the manufacturer or exporter to affix the hazardous labels to the cargo packaging and this is not a function that a warehouse is authorised to perform,” she says. “Incorrect labelling could have severe consequences and could prove disastrous to human life.” According to Simons, it is important for warehouse operators to work closely with agents of cargo owners in order to assist them in ensuring correct packaging and labelling procedures have been followed.