Export Packing for Steel Coils & Plates: Sea Freight Checklist

For steel export, good packing is not “extra”—it protects your material value. Most disputes come from moisture, handling damage, or incorrect marking. Below is a practical checklist we use to keep coils and plates safe for sea freight.

Main risks during sea freight

  • Condensation (temperature changes) → water stains and rust
  • Salt/chemical exposure at port
  • Forklift impact → edge damage / dents
  • Loose lashing → shifting during transit

Coil packing checklist (GI / stainless / carbon)

  • Inner wrap: VCI paper or moisture barrier (as required)
  • Outer wrap: waterproof paper + metal sheet cover (common export option)
  • Edge protectors: inner/outer ring + side guards
  • Strapping: steel straps with protectors to avoid cutting into the coil
  • Skids: fumigation-free wooden skids or steel skids
  • Orientation: confirm eye-to-sky / eye-to-wall per container plan

Plate / sheet packing checklist

  • Surface protection: PVC film (if required), paper interleaving
  • Corner/edge protection: protectors + guards to prevent strap damage
  • Pallet: strong export pallets (fumigation-free), sized for forklift access
  • Strapping: 4–6 straps depending on bundle weight and size
  • Outer cover: waterproof wrap + labeling on multiple sides

Container loading (simple but important)

  • Inspect container: dry, no odor, no holes, clean floor
  • Use dunnage and anti-slip materials
  • Add desiccants when shipping to humid climates
  • Proper lashing: prevent shifting; avoid direct steel-to-steel contact
  • Take loading photos: before/after lashing for records

Before shipment: confirm these items

  • Marking: grade, size, heat number (if required), bundle number
  • Documents: MTC/COC, packing list, invoice, BL instructions
  • Weights: net/gross per package and per container
  • Special requests: inspection, photos, extra labels, OEM tags

Need export packing with photos and documents? Send your spec.