The Top-5 Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing a Shipping Case

1. Overlooking Standard Case Options for Custom Solutions

In the past, limited options in molded shipping case sizes led many to opt for custom wood ATA cases. However, the landscape has changed significantly. Today's heavy-duty molded cases come in a wide array of sizes, offering substantial savings in both weight and cost. According to a report by Technavio, the protective packaging market size is expected to grow by USD 13.42 billion from 2021 to 2026, indicating a trend towards more advanced and varied packaging solutions Technavio.

Mistake to Avoid:

• Automatically choosing a custom case when an off-the-shelf option could suffice.

Benefits of Standard Cases:

• Lower upfront costs
• Reduced case weight
• Adequate protection for many applications

2. Settling for the Closest Available Case Size

While standard cases can be cost-effective, they're not always the best fit. Selecting a case that's too small or too large can compromise protection and increase shipping costs. Custom cases should be considered when standard sizes don't meet the specific needs of your items.

Mistake to Avoid:

• Choosing a case size that doesn't properly fit your items, leading to potential damage or higher shipping fees.

Custom Case Considerations:

• Tailored protection for your items
• Potential savings on shipping costs by avoiding oversized cases

3. Relying on Factory-Supplied Foam Kits

Many manufacturers offer foam kits as an accessory, but these are often low-quality and not designed for optimal protection. An engineered interior with various foam types and solid partitioning can provide superior protection, a more professional appearance, and a longer lifespan for your case.

Mistake to Avoid:

• Using subpar foam kits that may require purchasing a larger, more expensive case.

Advantages of Engineered Interiors:

• Enhanced protection for contents
• Smaller case size and lower shipping weight
• Professional appearance and durability

4. Ignoring Airline and Shipper Size/Weight Restrictions

Airlines and commercial shippers enforce strict size and weight limits, with significant price increases for larger cases. Being aware of these restrictions is essential for selecting the right case. An engineered case interior can help minimize weight and size, reducing shipping costs and handling stress.

Mistake to Avoid:

• Choosing a case without considering the size and weight limits imposed by airlines and shippers.

Shipping Considerations:

• Stay informed about the latest size and weight restrictions
• Design your case to minimize shipping costs and ensure easy handling

5. Trusting a "Fragile" Sticker for Protection

The reality is that shipping environments are harsh, and a "Fragile" sticker offers no real protection. Proper case and interior design are critical to safeguarding your items against rough handling, extreme temperatures, and other transit hazards.

Mistake to Avoid:

• Relying solely on labeling instead of investing in robust case design.

Design for Protection:

• Ensure your case can withstand the rigors of transit
• Offset vulnerabilities with strategic case and interior design

In conclusion, when purchasing a shipping case, it's essential to consider the type of case, the quality of the interior padding, and the shipping regulations that apply to your items. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save money and provide better protection for your valuable items. For more detailed information on shipping case options and regulations, consult resources like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for airline restrictions IATA and carrier websites such as UPS and FedEx for their specific guidelines.