Packing Copper Pipes in Wooden Crates & Container Loading Process

Client: A European HVAC manufacturer purchasing 2,000 pcs of 6-meter copper pipes (OD 22mm, 1mm thickness) for refrigeration systems.

Objective: Safely pack and ship the copper pipes to prevent damage during transit while optimizing container space.

Step-by-Step Packing & Shipping Process

1. Pre-Packing Preparation

• Material Check: Verify pipe dimensions, surface quality (no scratches/dents), and quantity (2,000 pcs).

• Packing Materials:

  • Wooden crates (120cm × 60cm × 60cm, fumigation-treated, ISPM 15 compliant)

  • Anti-corrosion VCI paper (wrapped around pipes)

  • Foam end caps (to protect pipe edges)

  • Steel strapping (for crate reinforcement)

  • Waterproof plastic sheeting (for moisture protection)

2. Packing Process

1. Pipe Bundling:

   • Group 20 pipes per bundle, secured with plastic straps.

   • Wrap each bundle with VCI paper to prevent oxidation.

   • Add foam end caps to both ends.

2. Wooden Crate Assembly:

   • Base: Lay a plastic sheet inside the crate for moisture resistance.

   • Loading: Place 5 bundles (100 pipes) per crate, separated by foam spacers.

   • Top Cover: Seal with another plastic sheet before nailing the wooden lid.

   • Reinforcement: Secure crates with steel strapping for heavy-duty transport.

3. Labeling:

   • Mark each crate with:

     • "FRAGILE – HANDLE WITH CARE"

     • Gross Weight (e.g., 250 kg)

     • Customer PO & Item No.

3. Container Loading (40ft HQ Container)

• Max Capacity: 20 crates (2,000 pipes total).

• Loading Steps:

  1. Floor Protection: Lay corrugated cardboard sheets to prevent slipping.

  2. Stacking: Place crates in 2 layers (10 crates per layer) with forklift.

  3. Securing: Use container lock rods & airbags to prevent movement.

  4. Moisture Control: Add desiccant bags (5 units) inside the container.

4. Documentation & Shipping

• Packing List (itemizing crate contents)

• Bill of Lading (with HS Code: 7411.2100 for copper pipes)

• Fumigation Certificate (for wooden packaging)

• Third-Party Inspection Report (optional, per client request)

Shipping Details:

• Port of Loading: Shanghai

• Destination: Hamburg

• Transit Time: 28 days

• Insurance: All-risk coverage (0.3% of cargo value)

Key Takeaways for the Client

✅ Damage Prevention: Wooden crates + foam protection ensure safe transit.
✅ Efficient Space Use: Optimized loading fits 2,000 pipes in one 40ft HQ container.
✅ Compliance: ISPM 15, IMO, and EU customs standards met.

Client Feedback:
"The packing method eliminated pipe deformation issues we faced with previous suppliers. The detailed loading photos helped verify quality before shipment."