Advanced technology plays major role in packaging

Under-estimating the role of
packaging can be a costly
mistake, say Allen Hancock
of Mammoth Packing
“Packaging is an integral
part of the goods supply
chain – and not just for the
obvious reason of protecting
goods from damage.
Proper packaging allows
for efficient distribution to
the consumer and, in some
cases, helps to promote
goods in the market place,”
he says. “Cutting corners
when it comes to packaging
and not protecting goods
against rough handling in
transit – whether by road,
rail, sea or air – can result in
major damages that can be
extremely costly and eat into
the profit margins.”
More and more
companies are seeing the
value of having their cargo
professionally packaged.
Good packaging also means
that space is optimised and
cargo is packed in the most
cost-efficient way. It is for
this reason that Hancock and
his team visit most clients
personally to view the cargo.
“Dimensions, weight and
often fragility of the cargo
must be taken into account.
We view the cargo and then
work out how to pack and
crate it in a safe, protective
manner, leaving cargo
owners free to focus on their
core function.”
Hancock says advanced
technology also plays a
major role in packaging of
cargo. “There are procedures
for the prevention of rust,
corrosion, oxidation and
discolouration of cargo.
This corrosion intercept
procedure is being used by
more and more exporters.
Many companies are also
using it for long-term storage
of cargo, as there is a tenyear
guarantee of no rust or
corrosion, as long as all steps
are followed one hundred per
cent. There is also the use of
stickers which log excessive
“tilting” or “shocking” to
sensitive cargo while en
route to its destination.”