Hazardous cargo packers offer flexibility and speedy turnaround

CUTTING CORNERS when it comes to dangerous goods packaging can be a costly exercise – and it’s often the result of ignorance rather than a blatant attempt to flout the law. Isando-based Hazardous Cargo Packers opened its doors a year ago, offering a specialist service for air, road, rail and sea cargo. Headed up by father and son team Wally and Walton Martin – both of whom have Iata-approved qualifications – the company also offers a consultancy service at no additional charge. “Our main market is the airfreight industry, but we can do DGDs (dangerous goods declarations) for all modes,” says Walton. “Flexibility and speedy turnaround are among our strengths.” A lack of knowledge is often at the root of hazardous cargo transgressions, in Walton’s view. “What may look like a simple household item – like ant poison – could result in an entire shipment being destroyed unless it is adequately handled. “There’s also an elimination table that stipulates what items can be shipped together. “We recently packed some household goods for transport to Scotland – which included an LPG bottle. Although it doesn’t appear to be dangerous, without the proper packaging and labelling, the entire shipment could be destroyed at destination.” Besides hazardous goods, the company also offers a crating service, manufacturing wooden crates to clients’ requirements.