How to Ship Glass and Reduce Product Damage

To ship glass products with minimal to no damage, a company must be aware of potential hurdles and tasks at every stage of the supply chain. Selecting suitable packaging materials to safeguard the product and complying with documentation and labeling requirements are paramount. Each step plays a crucial role in protecting fragile glass items during shipping. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential steps involved in shipping glass products, emphasizing the importance of precision and compliance to mitigate the risk of product damage.

Step 1: Selecting The Right Packaging Materials

The first step to shipping glass involves selecting the correct packaging materials for the diverse world of glass products. Glass items are versatile -- some are more durable or more fragile than others. They can come in sheets, panels, bottles, or custom shapes, all sporting different weights. Appropriately packaging each item is essential because all glass can break. The necessary packaging needs of glass include adequate cushioning, shock absorption, and stability. The most effective and proven way to guarantee you have the right blend of all three characteristics is industrial product testing. UFP Packaging is a total packaging solutions provider with extensive experience creating custom and effective glass packaging solutions. With an ISTA-certified testing facility staffed with packaging engineers, let us assist you in selecting the right packaging for your glass products.

Step 2: Have Standard Operating Procedures in Place for Shipping Glass Products 

The second glass shipping step to ensuring your products are safe involves having standard operating procedures and techniques in place. This initiative can include designating a quality control manager to oversee your manufacturing process and verify that only undamaged products are shipped. They can also confirm your products are packed and secured based on the testing analysis provided by your industrial packaging provider. 

Inspection is also required on the receiving end. When the shipment has arrived at its destination, it is crucial to carefully unpack and inspect the glass products for any signs of damage or breakage. Cracks, fractures, or chips are what you are looking for. Areas of concern are typically the edges and corners.

Finally, the shipment should be documented as part of the standard operating procedures. Record any issues or product damages and immediately contact the industrial shipping provider to initiate the claim process. Subsequently, you should also log any shipment that arrived on time and had no product damage. Reviewing documents to compare providers will help a company choose the most reliable shipping service provider.

Maintaining these standards for glass packaging in your shipping facility will significantly decrease the chance of product damage during transit.

Step 3: Documenting and Labeling Requirements for Glass Packaging

Now that your glass is packed and ready for travel -- do not ship it off just yet. Proper documentation and labeling are vital for the smooth handling of your glass sheets, panels, or glassware for shipping. Include a detailed description, weight, dimensions, quantity, and specific handling instructions. Enhance cargo safety by embellishing your package with bold labels like "FRAGILE" or "HANDLE WITH CARE." This measure will visually alert packaging handlers to the delicate nature of your shipments. In addition, arranging insurance coverage with the service provider before shipment can provide added protection. Take these steps seriously and be detailed and accurate while transporting glass for the best outcome.

Internationally recognized fragile shipping label

Overview of Glass Shipping Best Practices

In the world of glass shipping, a successful journey from point A to point B depends on careful planning and execution. By selecting appropriate packaging materials, implementing proven packaging techniques, and adhering to meticulous documentation and labeling practices, you significantly enhance the chances of your glass products reaching their destination unscathed. UFP Packaging, with its testing facility, stands ready to assist you in navigating the complexities of glass packaging, ensuring a secure and efficient shipping process. Attention to detail is the key to a successful and damage-free transit experience for your valuable glass items.

UFP Packaging Provides Glass Packaging Services

Are you looking for tailored packaging solutions for your glass items? Your search ends with UFP Packaging. As North America’s largest total packaging solutions provider, we offer a range of proprietary crating solutions, protective packaging, and testing and design services. With more than 90 facilities worldwide, we are well-equipped to meet your regional, national, and global packaging needs.

For more information, call us at (855) 779-1703 or request a consultation here.