When it comes to important cargo transporting, the risk is always high. 

According to Recoupex, cargo claims statistics reveal: 

• 31% of claims are due to water damage and flooding
• 28% of claims result from wrong storage temperatures and power failure that is reefer damage
• 25% of claims are due to fire, accident by road/rail, and mismanagement during loading and unloading
• 10% of claims are due to claim delays
• 6% of claims are due to thefts and robberies

As these statistics highlight, goods shipped worldwide face various damaging issues throughout the transit process.

This is where the Dunnage bags play a vital role in securing cargo and preventing damage. These bags are available in different types customized according to particular needs.

In this ultimate guide to dunnage bags, we will explore the types, uses, and various benefits they offer to safeguard a shipment. 

So, let’s have a look. 

What are Dunnage Bags?

They are inflatable bags that protect and secure cargo in trucks, ships, trains, and containers. They are also known as dunnage air bags. 

These bags get placed between the cargo to save them from any movement throughout the shipment journey. It eliminates the cargo damage risks. 

The core materials used to make dunnage bags  

They are made using several materials based on their strength and resilience. Some common materials used are:

• Paper: These get built with multiple layers of solid kraft paper. It is used for lighter loads and less challenging applications. 
• Plastic: HDPE (High-density polyethylene) or woven PP (Polypropylene) bags are used for heavy loads and save cargo from punctures and moisture. 
• Composite: Some bags are made by blending materials like plastic and kraft paper. It offers high resilience and protects different carbo types. 

How they work

Dunnage bags are used to fill the gaps in cargo items. Once it gets placed in the empty spaces, it expands and strongly holds the cargo in place. It secures them from any movement throughout the transportation. 

The air pressure in the bag makes sure that it maintains a perfect shape. It offers a cushioning impact and seizing vibrations during shipping. 

This simple yet compelling approach helps secure goods from damage and makes sure they arrive at their destination in perfect condition. 

Types of Dunnage Bags

Kraft dunnage bags 

• Kraft dunnage bags are lightweight solutions manufactured using multiple layers of solid kraft paper. They are biodegradable and eco-friendly. 
• Kraft dunnage bags help industries like food and beverages and for shipping consumer goods/electronics. 

Poly woven dunnage bags 

• Poly-woven dunnage bags are made using woven polypropylene and save cargo from punctures and moisture. They are reusable and essential for heavy cargo.   
• Poly-woven dunnage bags help industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and construction to safeguard large and heavy shipments.  

Uses of Dunnage Bags

Shipping industry 

Dunnage bags play a key role in the shipping industry by providing high security to cargo within shipping containers. These dunnage bags get placed between cargo items to fill the gaps and save containers from any shifting/vibration throughout the journey. 

It eliminates the risk of goods damage and makes sure the cargo is delivered safely to the desired destination. 

Trucking industry 

Dunnage bags in the trucking industry secure the cargo through road transportation. These bags get placed in the truck’s cargo area to fill the gaps, so the cargo does not have space to move. They decrease the damage risks from load shifting, sharp turns, and sudden stops, as well as improve vehicle stability. 

Dunnage bags are the best choice for truckers as they are lightweight and easy to install.   

Railway transportation  

During rail shipment, cargo is more likely to move due to motion and train vibration. Dunnage bags are important to safeguard cargo in rail cars. It protects goods stuck at the place through transportation. 

Due to the dunnage bags’ versatility, they suit different types of cargo and railcar configurations.

Air Freight  

Air transportation faces many challenges, such as pressure and turbulence changes during cargo shipment. Here, the inflatable bags help to secure loads. 

As inflatable bags are lightweight, they are beneficial in air freight where it is necessary to decrease the weight. It is best for optimal protection during flight. 

Benefits of Using Dunnage Bags

• They improve cargo protection by securing the cargo from any movement during transportation and reducing damage risk. 
• They are cost-effective solutions as they are reusable. 
• They are quick and easy to install. It saves time in loading and unloading.
• They suit different shipment modes. 
• They are also adaptable to any cargo shape and size. 
• They are manufactured using recyclable materials that support the environment. 
• They are easy to transport and store, as well as enhance fuel efficiency. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Dunnage Bags

• Focus on the cargo type as well as the nature, weight, and fragility of items being shipped while choosing the right dunnage bags. 
• Make sure the inflatable bags you choose can handle the cargo pressure and weight without bursting. 
• Select the inflatable bags manufactured using high-quality material like Kraft paper or woven polypropylene. 
• Choose the bags that have the proper shape and size to fit the best while filling the gaps between cargo. 
• Whether you choose an automatic air compressor or a manual pump, select the inflation method wisely. 
• If you want cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions, choose reusable inflatable bags. 
• Dunnage bags must follow industry standards for hassle-free shipments. 
• Focus on the environmental conditions, such as humidity or temperature, to which your cargo is vulnerable. 

Conclusion

Here, we have seen various dunnage air bag types, their usage across different transportation industries, and several advantages they offer. From improving cargo protection to eliminating costs and being environment-friendly,  inflatable bags are an effective solution to safeguard loads while transporting. 

If you want a reliable and budget-friendly solution to protect your cargo in the ever-evolving transportation landscape, leverage dunnage bags. They are easily adaptable and never disappoint you.

Source: https://dunnagesystems.com/dunnage-bags-types-uses-benefits/