How Crating Differs for Air, Sea, and Ground Freight

Crating requirements vary by freight type because air, sea, and ground shipping expose cargo to different risks, handling methods, and transit conditions. At Pakrite Express, we design custom crates based on how and where your shipment will travel, ensuring protection, compliance, and cost efficiency for each transport method.

Why Freight Type Matters in Crate Design

A crate that works for trucking may fail during ocean transit or be rejected for air freight. Each freight mode has unique weight limits, handling intensity, and exposure duration. Proper crating reduces damage, avoids carrier issues, and helps shipments arrive on time.

How Crating Differs for Air Freight

Air freight prioritizes speed and reduced handling but has strict weight and size limits. Air freight requires the following:

• Lightweight construction to reduce shipping cost

• Compact crate dimensions to meet aircraft cargo limits

• Strong internal blocking to prevent movement during turbulence

• Secure fasteners to withstand pressure changes

• Clear labeling for orientation and handling

How Crating Differs for Sea Freight

Sea freight involves long transit times and multiple handling points, making durability critical. Sea freight requires the following:

• Heavy-duty construction for extended transport

• Reinforced bases for container loading and stacking

• Moisture and corrosion protection for long voyages

• ISPM-15 certified wood for international compliance

• Tight sealing to prevent exposure during port handling

How Crating Differs for Ground Freight

Ground freight is the most flexible shipping method but often involves frequent loading and unloading. Ground freight requires the following:

• Strong base design for forklift handling

• Balanced weight distribution for truck transport

• Internal bracing to absorb vibration from road travel

• Stackable construction when applicable

• Clear handling instructions for terminal transfers

Key Differences Between Air, Sea, and Ground Crating

Crating Factor	Air Freight	Sea Freight	Ground Freight
Primary concern	Weight and size	Durability and exposure	Handling and vibration
Crate weight	Lightweight	Heavy-duty	Moderate
Transit time	Short	Long	Medium
Handling points	Fewer	Many	Frequent
Export compliance	Often required	Always required	Sometimes required

How Pakrite Express Designs Crates by Freight Type

At Pakrite Express, we do not use one-size-fits-all designs. Each crate is engineered based on objective shipping criteria. We evaluate the following:

1. Freight method and carrier requirements

2. Weight, dimensions, and fragility of cargo

3. Domestic or international destination

4. Handling frequency and loading method

5. Insurance and compliance requirements

Why Proper Freight-Specific Crating Prevents Damage

Using the wrong crate type increases the risk of structural failure, cargo shifting, or shipment delays. Freight-specific crating protects both the cargo and the shipping timeline by aligning design with real-world handling conditions.

Why New York Businesses Choose Pakrite Express

For more than 40 years, Pakrite Express has supported New York manufacturers, designers, and exporters with custom crating solutions engineered for all freight types.

• Established in 1982

• In-house crate design and fabrication

• ISPM-15 certified materials for export

• Experience with air, sea, and ground freight

• Local pickup and nationwide shipping coordination

Contact Pakrite Express for Freight-Specific Crating in New York

If your shipment is moving by air, sea, or ground, Pakrite Express can design a crate that meets the exact requirements of your freight method. Contact our New York team today for a consultation or quote and ensure your cargo is protected with properly engineered crating.