Dunnage in trucking is an essential component to ensure the safe and secure transportation of goods. As a truck driver, I have come across different types of dunnage materials used to protect cargo from damage during transportation. Dunnage can be made from various materials, including wood, solid plastic, airbags, and sometimes even steel, depending on the application.
The primary function of dunnage is to serve as a protective barrier, preventing direct contact between the freight and the surface of a semi-trailer for open-deck shipments.
When loading cargo into a truck, it’s crucial to use the appropriate dunnage material to avoid any damages during transit. In the case of dry vans and reefers, dunnage can help to keep cargo from jostling during transit, ensuring that the shipment arrives safely at its destination.
What Is Dunnage in Trucking?
As someone who works in the shipping industry, I know that dunnage is an essential part of transporting goods safely and securely. In simple terms, dunnage refers to any material that helps keep cargo in place during transportation. It can be anything that keeps and prevents loads from sliding off a flatbed truck or shipping container.
Definition of Dunnage
Dunnage can get made from several materials, but common dunnage materials include foam, corrugated paper, wood, plastic, air pillows, v boards, steel, and more. The type of dunnage used depends on the cargo items being transported, the handling process, and the shipping terminology used in the industry.
Types of Dunnage
For full-truckload cargoes, shippers mostly use wood and/or plastic dunnage. Wood dunnage is popular because it is lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective. It also provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption. Plastic dunnage is also lightweight and efficient, but it is more durable and moisture-resistant than wood dunnage.
Custom dunnage solutions are also available for high-value shipping, fragile electronics, and other special needs. Dunnage bags, industrial solid plastics, and steel dunnage are some of the custom dunnage solutions used in the industry.
Importance of Dunnage in Trucking
Dunnage is crucial in preventing damage to cargo during transportation. It protects packages from sliding across a truck, ship, or train, and it helps to absorb shock. Proper dunnage can be incredibly cheap, but it protects valuable, fragile, and loose items. Dunnage also helps to fill void spaces in shipping containers, reducing the risk of damage to cargo items.
Using appropriate dunnage in shipping containers also improves air circulation and reduces the risk of moisture damage. This is especially important for refrigerated shipping containers. Proper dunnage can also reduce labor costs by reducing the need for additional handling and packaging supplies.
Definition of Dunnage
Dunnage in trucking refers to durable materials that are used to secure cargo during transportation. It can include various materials such as wood, solid plastic, airbags, and sometimes even steel. The choice of dunnage material used will depend on the type of cargo being transported and the specific requirements for securing it.
Dunnage is used to fill gaps between cargo and the walls of the truck or trailer to prevent shifting during transit. It is also used to protect cargo from damage caused by vibration or impact during transportation. Dunnage can be used to separate and organize different types of cargo within a shipment.
The use of dunnage is essential in ensuring that cargo is transported safely and efficiently. It helps to prevent damage to the cargo and the truck or trailer, reducing the risk of accidents and delays.
Types of Dunnage
When it comes to securing cargo during transportation, dunnage is an essential component. Dunnage can be made from various materials, including wood, plastic, airbags, V boards, steel, fillers, and custom dunnage solutions. In this section, I will discuss the different types of dunnage used in trucking.
Wood Dunnage
Wood dunnage is one of the most common types of dunnage used in trucking. It is made from solid wood and is used to secure cargo during transportation. Wood dunnage is easy to handle, and it can be cut to fit the specific needs of the cargo. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of dunnage.
Plastic Dunnage
Plastic dunnage is another popular type of dunnage used in trucking. It is made from solid plastic and is used to secure cargo during transportation. Plastic dunnage is lightweight, easy to handle, and can be cut to fit the specific needs of the cargo. It is also durable and reusable, making it a cost-effective option for many trucking companies.
Airbags
Airbags are a type of dunnage that is used to secure cargo during transportation. They are made from durable materials and are inflated to create a cushion between the cargo and the walls of the truck. Airbags are easy to handle, and they can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the cargo. They are also reusable, making them a cost-effective option for many trucking companies.
V Boards
V boards are a type of dunnage that is used to secure cargo during transportation. They are made from durable materials and are shaped like a V to fit the corners of the cargo. V boards are easy to handle, and they can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the cargo. They are also reusable, making them a cost-effective option for many trucking companies.
Steel Dunnage
Steel dunnage is a type of dunnage that is used to secure heavy cargo during transportation. It is made from solid steel and is designed to withstand the weight and pressure of heavy cargo. Steel dunnage is durable and reusable, making it a cost-effective option for many trucking companies.
Fillers
Fillers are a type of dunnage that is used to fill the empty spaces between the cargo and the walls of the truck. They are made from various materials, including foam, plastic, and paper. Fillers are easy to handle, and they can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the cargo. They are also inexpensive, making them a cost-effective option for many trucking companies.
Custom Dunnage Solutions
Sometimes, cargo requires custom dunnage solutions to ensure it is secure during transportation. Custom dunnage solutions are designed to fit the specific needs of the cargo, and they can be made from various materials, including wood, plastic, and steel. Custom dunnage solutions are typically more expensive than other types of dunnage, but they are essential for securing unique or fragile cargo during transportation.
Importance of Dunnage in Trucking
As a trucking professional, I know that dunnage plays a crucial role in ensuring that cargo is transported safely and securely. Dunnage is essentially any material used to protect or support cargo during transportation. Here are some of the main reasons why dunnage is so important in trucking:
Damage Protection
One of the primary benefits of dunnage is that it helps protect cargo from damage during transportation. Properly placed dunnage can prevent cargo from shifting or sliding around in transit, which can cause damage to the cargo or even the truck itself. Dunnage can also help protect cargo from impacts or vibrations that can occur during shipping.
Secure Shipping
Dunnage is essential for securing cargo during shipping. Without proper dunnage, cargo can shift or move around in transit, which can be dangerous for the driver and other motorists. Securely packed cargo is also less likely to suffer damage during transit.
Moisture Protection
Moisture can be a major problem during shipping, especially if the cargo is sensitive to moisture or water damage. Dunnage can help protect cargo from moisture by creating a barrier between the cargo and any water that may be present during shipping.
Cushioning and Shock Absorption
Dunnage can also provide cushioning and shock absorption during shipping. This is particularly important for fragile or delicate cargo that may be susceptible to damage from impacts or vibrations. Dunnage can help absorb shocks and protect fragile cargo from damage.
Conclusion
Dunnage plays a critical role in the safe and secure transportation of goods. By protecting cargo from damage, securing it during shipping, and providing cushioning and shock absorption, dunnage helps ensure that cargo arrives at its destination in good condition. Whether you’re transporting sporting goods, machinery, or cheese, proper dunnage is an essential part of the shipping process.