September 30, 2025

6 min read

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Packaging Best Practices for International Shipping

Proper packaging is crucial for international shipments. Learn how to protect your goods during long-distance transport to Latin America with these industry best practices.

Why Proper Packaging Matters

International shipments to Latin America face unique challenges: multiple handling points, varying climate conditions, extended transit times, and diverse infrastructure quality. Proper packaging is your first line of defense against damage, loss, and delays.

Understanding the Journey

Your shipment will typically experience:

•Loading and unloading at origin facility
•Transport to Canadian port or airport
•Multiple handling points at the departure terminal
•Ocean voyage or air transport (with potential turbulence or rough seas)
•Arrival at Latin American port/airport
•Customs inspection (potential opening and repackaging)
•Inland transport to final destination

Each stage presents risks of shifting, compression, drops, moisture exposure, and temperature variations.

Did you know?

Studies show that up to 11% of cargo damage occurs due to improper packaging, costing businesses millions annually. Investing in proper packaging can reduce damage claims by up to 70%.

Core Packaging Principles

1. Choose the Right Container

Corrugated Boxes

Use new, sturdy corrugated boxes appropriate for your product weight and dimensions:

•Single Wall: For items up to 65 lbs (30 kg)
•Double Wall: For items 65-100 lbs (30-45 kg) or fragile products
•Triple Wall: For heavy items over 100 lbs or extremely fragile cargo

Pro Tip

Never reuse boxes for international shipping. Used boxes have compromised structural integrity and may not withstand the rigors of international transit.

Wooden Crates

For heavy machinery, equipment, or extremely valuable items:

•Must comply with ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures)
•Wood must be heat-treated or fumigated to prevent pest transmission
•Proper ISPM-15 stamps required for customs clearance

Pallets

Standard pallet sizes vary by region:

•North America: 48" x 40" (122cm x 102cm)
•Europe/Latin America: Often prefer 120cm x 100cm or 120cm x 80cm

Always use heat-treated pallets (ISPM-15 compliant) for international shipping.

2. Interior Packaging and Cushioning

Proper cushioning protects products from shock, vibration, and compression:

Cushioning Materials

•Bubble Wrap: Excellent for moderate protection, use large bubbles for fragile items
•Foam Sheets: Superior protection for delicate or valuable items
•Air Pillows: Cost-effective void fill to prevent shifting
•Packing Peanuts: Good void fill but can shift during transit
•Corrugated Inserts: Create compartments and provide structural support

The Six-Inch Rule

Maintain at least 6 inches (15cm) of cushioning material on all sides of fragile items. This creates an effective shock-absorption zone that can withstand drops and impacts.

Did you know?

Packages can experience forces of up to 6G during handling and transport. That means a 10-pound item can experience a force equivalent to 60 pounds during a sudden stop or drop.

3. Securing Your Shipment

Internal Security

•Fill all voids - items should not shift when the box is moved
•Use dividers for multiple items in one box
•Wrap items individually before placing in the master carton
•Distribute weight evenly

External Security

•Strapping: Use polypropylene or polyester strapping for palletized loads
•Stretch Wrap: Minimum 4-5 layers for pallet stability, focus on corners and base
•Shrink Wrap: Provides weather protection and tamper evidence
•Edge Protectors: Prevent strapping from cutting into boxes on palletized shipments

Special Considerations for Latin America

Climate Protection

Latin America spans multiple climate zones, from tropical heat to mountainous cold:

•Moisture Barriers: Use moisture-barrier bags or VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) packaging for metal items
•Desiccants: Include silica gel packets for electronics, textiles, or moisture-sensitive products
•Temperature-Sensitive Items: Consider insulated packaging or thermal blankets for items sensitive to heat or cold

Rough Handling Preparation

Infrastructure quality varies across Latin America. Package assuming your shipment will experience:

•Rough roads during inland transport
•Manual handling without mechanical equipment in some locations
•Stacking of packages in warehouses and containers
•Extended storage periods in humid conditions

Labeling Requirements

Proper labeling ensures proper handling and facilitates customs clearance:

Required Labels

•Shipper and Consignee Information: Full names, addresses, and contact information
•Package Count: "Box 1 of 5", "Pallet 2 of 3", etc.
•Handling Instructions: "This Side Up", "Fragile", "Keep Dry", etc.
•Country of Origin: "Made in Canada" marking

Labeling Best Practices

•Use waterproof labels or label protectors
•Place labels on multiple sides of packages
•Remove or cover old shipping labels to prevent confusion
•Include labels in both English and Spanish for Latin American destinations
•Use internationally recognized handling symbols

Did you know?

Incorrect or missing labels account for approximately 20% of shipping delays at Latin American customs. Bilingual labels (English/Spanish) can reduce inspection times by up to 30%.

Product-Specific Guidelines

Electronics

•Use anti-static bags and foam
•Include "This Side Up" labels - circuit boards should never be inverted
•Add extra cushioning around screens and delicate components
•Include desiccant packets

Glass and Ceramics

•Wrap each piece individually with multiple layers of bubble wrap
•Use cardboard dividers between items
•Mark clearly as "Fragile" and "This Side Up"
•Consider double-boxing for extra protection

Machinery and Equipment

•Drain all fluids completely
•Secure all moving parts
•Apply rust preventative coatings
•Use heavy-duty crating with internal bracing
•Create detailed diagrams showing center of gravity and lifting points

Textiles and Apparel

•Use poly bags to protect from moisture and dirt
•Avoid over-compression which can damage fabric
•Include hanging garments in specialized wardrobes when possible

Testing Your Packaging

Before shipping valuable or large-quantity orders, test your packaging:

•Drop Test: Drop packaged item from waist height onto concrete
•Compression Test: Stack weight equivalent to 3-4 layers on top
•Shake Test: Shake the package vigorously - no sounds mean no shifting

If the package fails any test, add more cushioning or use stronger containers.

Common Packaging Mistakes to Avoid

•Under-packing: Insufficient cushioning material
•Over-packing: Too much cushioning can actually reduce protection
•Wrong box size: Box should closely fit contents with 2-3 inches for cushioning
•Weak sealing: Always use H-taping method (tape along all seams)
•Ignoring weight distribution: Heavier items should be at bottom
•Mixing incompatible items: Heavy items can damage lighter ones in same box

Metro Shippers Packaging Support

Metro Shippers offers comprehensive packaging guidance and services:

•Free packaging consultations for your specific products
•Custom crating services for specialized equipment
•Quality packaging materials available for purchase
•Re-packaging services if shipments arrive improperly packaged
•Packaging inspection and recommendations before international shipping

Get Packaging Advice

Not sure if your packaging meets international shipping standards? Our logistics experts can review your packaging approach and provide recommendations specific to your products and Latin American destinations.