外贸实务英文版第二部分.docVIP

CHAPTPR 3 3. PACKAGING AND TRANSPORT Logistics encompasses transport, storage and handling. Those aspects which affect the transport of goods across the borders are the subject of this chapter. 3.1 Packing and packaging Packing is the action of putting the goods into a pack. Packaging is referred to as the materials of which the pack is comprised. Repeated research indicates that about 70% of all transport losses could have been avoided through better packing/packaging and more careful handling. In international trade we have to keep our eyes on the total journey the product has to make. It may be stored, transported, loaded and unloaded several times. For a standard consumer product transaction, the chain may look something like this: Protection The unit (box, crate, container, etc.) must be matched to the type of transport and the nature of the storage and handling it will receive. Mechanical handling is different from the more sensitive manual handling which often occurs in logistically less developed countries. The protection may be against pilferage (expensive goods), moisture (tropics), salty sea air, high temperatures, differences in air pressure and temperature (condensation in containers), corrosion, spoilage or the formation of mould. Inflammable goads must be protected against fire. Contamination can occur with chemical substances. And there are the effects of transport, such as jolting, shocks, bad stacking, etc. Handling and transport The pallet is a universal device, which allows the use of forklift trucks. Boxes in particular are frequently loaded on pallets. Standard sizes are 100 x 120 cm used for fresh fruits and vegetables, and the Europallet of 80 x 120 cm. Wooden cases are used, for example for packing custom designed machines that do not fit into a container. Containers are the most advanced stage in increasing the size of the unit load device or ULD. They are for multiple re-use and are normally constructed of metal, or at least with a