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Shipping larger or more complicated objects is difficult when you don't have as much experience with that type of shipping. Often those items need to be palletized, which means using different types of shipping packaging than you may be used to using. The trick is to protect the items that you're shipping without adding a lot of bulk or weight to the packaging. You can easily do just that with four different types of packaging materials.

Use Cargo Bags

Cargo bags are plastic bags that fit around the shipment, whether it's palletized or in a large crate. The plastic sheeting helps to prevent damage from rain and other elements. They're strong, so they aren't likely to catch and tear on anything during shipment, but you can easily tell if someone has tried to access your shipment while it was in transit. Once the cargo bag is in place, you can add stickers or labels with any additional information about the shipment.

Use Special Packing Tape

Seal packages and apply labels with special packing tape made just for cargo shipments. The tape is available in many formats and colors, and you can even order some with your logo and information on it. The best part about this tape is that it is tamper resistant. When the tape is lifted, major portions of the design stay behind on the package, letting you know that the tape was moved.

Use Shrink Wrap

For unusually-shaped items, shrink wrap is a good option. You can find it in clear versions or in colors if you want to have a little more privacy about what you're shipping. The shrink wrap conforms quickly to the items you're shipping with just a little bit of heat. You can easily tell if there were any attempts to open your shipment en route, and the shrink wrap helps to keep the shipment contained.

Use Strapping Seals

Strapping seals are a great choice for secondary security of shipments. These use straps that criss-cross over the shipment and then seal via a crimp. The only way to remove the straps is to cut them, so it's evident immediately if they've been removed. Strapping seals work very well over a cargo bag or shrink wrap as another way to secure packaging.

When you're ready to get your commercial cargo shipments underway, contact someone who can help. You'll have everything that you need to make sure that your cargo gets exactly where it needs to be.