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Glossary for Crating and Industrial Packaging by Crate Master

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Crate
A durable shipping container, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, used to transport or store heavy or fragile items. Crates are often reinforced to safeguard contents from damage during handling, transportation, and storage.

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Industrial Packaging
Packaging solutions tailored for large-scale manufacturing, warehousing, and transportation of goods. Built to withstand harsh conditions, industrial packaging ensures product safety from production lines to final destinations.

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Export Crating
Custom-designed crates for international shipping, built to comply with global standards like ISPM 15. These crates protect goods from moisture, handling, and the challenges of overseas transport.

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Custom Crating
Crates specifically engineered to match the dimensions, weight, and fragility of the items being shipped. Custom crating incorporates protective features like cushioning and internal supports for maximum safety.

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Pallet
A flat platform, made of wood, plastic, or metal, that supports goods during transport and storage. Pallets streamline logistics by enabling easy handling and stacking with forklifts or pallet jacks.

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ISPM 15
The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 mandates the treatment of wooden packaging to prevent pest spread. Compliance requires heat treatment or fumigation, certified by the ISPM 15 stamp.

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Heat Treatment (HT)
A process that heats wooden packaging materials to eliminate pests, ensuring compliance with ISPM 15 standards. This is essential for wood used in international shipping.

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Vapor Barrier
A protective layer, such as aluminum foil or plastic, used to shield goods from moisture. Vapor barriers are vital for sensitive items like electronics or rust-prone equipment.

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Foam Lining
Shock-absorbing foam materials inside crates to cushion fragile or sensitive goods from impact during transit, reducing the risk of damage.

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Blocking and Bracing
Methods used to stabilize and secure items within a crate to prevent movement during transport. Wooden beams, foam inserts, or metal supports are common materials used.

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Void Fill
Materials like foam, airbags, or bubble wrap used to fill empty spaces in packaging, preventing items from shifting and sustaining damage.

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Shock Absorption
A design feature that reduces impact forces during handling or transit. Shock-absorbing materials, such as foam or rubber, are commonly used to protect fragile goods.

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Skid
A flat, portable platform without bottom deck boards, used for transporting heavy or bulky items. Skids are ideal for industrial handling by forklifts or cranes.

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Shrink Wrap
A thin plastic film heated to shrink tightly around items or pallets. Shrink wrap protects goods from dirt, dust, moisture, and minor damage while securing them for transit.

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Corrugated Fiberboard
A strong, lightweight packaging material made of fluted paper sandwiched between liner boards. It provides cushioning and protection for goods during transportation.

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Compression Strength
The capacity of packaging materials, like crates or boxes, to withstand stacking forces without collapsing. Essential for safe transport and storage.

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Stretch Film
An elastic plastic wrap used to secure goods on pallets or within crates. Stretch film stabilizes loads and offers protection against dust, dirt, and moisture.

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Seaworthy Packaging
Specialized packaging designed to endure ocean transport conditions, such as saltwater exposure and humidity. It often includes vapor barriers, desiccants, and reinforced crates.

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Desiccants
Moisture-absorbing materials like silica gel or clay placed inside packaging to protect goods from humidity and condensation, preventing corrosion, mold, and spoilage.

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Flat Rack Crating
Open-frame crates for oversized or irregularly shaped items that can’t fit in standard crates. They provide stability and ease of loading and unloading.

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Collapsible Crate
A reusable crate that can be disassembled for storage or return shipment. Collapsible crates save space and reduce logistics costs.

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Strapping
The process of using bands made of steel, plastic, or fabric to secure items inside a crate or on a pallet, ensuring stability during transport.

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Dunnage
Protective materials, such as foam or wooden blocks, used inside packaging to cushion goods, prevent movement, and absorb impact during transit.

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Load Securing
Techniques like strapping, blocking, and bracing to stabilize goods inside crates or pallets, ensuring safe transport without shifting or tipping.

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Packaging Design
The process of creating packaging solutions that protect goods, optimize space, and meet regulatory requirements. It considers factors like weight, dimensions, fragility, and shipping methods.

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Non-corrosive Packaging
Specially treated or designed packaging to prevent corrosion, often used for metal items or components. It may include rust inhibitors, desiccants, or protective coatings.