Cargo marking is the process of applying graphic signs or inscriptions, symbols, letters, numbers to the object of transportation for its subsequent identification with an indication of its characteristics and properties. This unique system of designations, numbers and other symbols provides information about the recipient, techniques, methods of handling the batch, its completeness. Such a special inscription can be applied to the packaging, any container, a detachable label, to the object of transportation itself. Correct marking of goods in logistics helps to avoid confusion in the identification of goods and during cargo handling, accelerating the process of its delivery.
Why is cargo marking necessary
In order to protect the consignment from spoilage, loss, damage, and to protect people who come into contact with the shipment, it is necessary to label the cargo during transportation. The labeling must contain sufficient information about the cargo, regarding its type, weight, dimensions, storage conditions (if necessary), as well as the country of origin and recipient. In this case, your goods will always be found at the destination by a unique identification code, which will eliminate confusion and errors during delivery and processing.
Thanks to special informative markings, carriers can quickly process goods throughout the entire process – from the warehouse to delivery and transit to the destination. Visual symbols are used so that employees transporting, loading and unloading cargo, as well as warehouse personnel, are aware of what can and cannot be done when handling this cargo. And customs officers, in turn, can more effectively check and release goods in batches according to easy-to-read markings on the packaging. Using special signs for marking cargo, which are clear and easy to read, will help minimize errors during transportation. Cargo marked in this way will be sent to the right delivery point, will be properly preserved in transit and stored in the warehouse, and will find its addressee.
Main types of cargo marking
Cargo is always marked when its delivery involves crossing state borders. Conventional designations determine the classification of transported objects and the rules for safe handling. There are several types of cargo marking:
- Marking codes and barcodes – used to automate cargo tracking and scanning processes. Barcodes facilitate the identification and accounting of goods in the warehouse and during transportation.
Labels and tags are the most common type of marking. They are self-adhesive tags or labels that can be easily applied to packaging, often containing basic information about the cargo. - Marking of specific cargo. For example, dangerous goods are marked in accordance with international standards.
- Marking in Ukraine is carried out in accordance with state standards. The regulations divide marks into consignor, commodity, transport, special. Thus, transport marking is applied by the carrier and contains all the necessary information for transportation, including the address and contact information, as well as the number of places and the serial number of the goods.
Marking in Ukraine is carried out in accordance with state standards. The regulations divide marks into consignor, commodity, transport, and special. Thus, transport marking is applied by the carrier and contains all the necessary information for transportation, including the address and contact information, as well as the number of places and the serial number of the goods.
Consignor marking is applied by the consignor. It includes the volume and weight characteristics of the cargo, information about the recipient and sender, loading/unloading points. Commodity marking contains information about the manufacturer of the goods, its name, model, and date of manufacture. Special marking includes various warning signs about the rules of loading and unloading operations, storage, transportation, and how to handle the cargo.
These can be signs such as “Caution. Glass”, “Do not roll”, “Keep away from sunlight”. Marking that warns of the danger of the cargo is also mandatory – its toxicity, flammability, and explosiveness.
How to properly label cargo
When choosing packaging for a product, it is necessary to take into account that marking signs, including dangerous goods, will be applied to it. Depending on the type of product, it can be, for example, plastic, and then marking is done on press forms. If wooden packaging is required, then the marks are applied through a stencil by painting or burning. Cardboard packaging is marked using a typographic method, and on metal packaging, signs are applied by painting on a stencil or by extrusion. Information is applied to the packaging in such a way that it can remain legible throughout the entire transportation process, without losing its appearance. The font sizes of the text and the area of the location of information signs are also regulated. They are applied to a visible, accessible place on the cargo or packaging itself. Moreover, for each type of signs and stickers, certain zones on the packaging are provided. The cargo is marked using special machines, the process can also be carried out by gluing, sewing or applying to a tag.
Why Use TVL to Label and Transport Your Cargo
To be sure of safe and fast delivery of cargo to the destination, it is better to use the services of experienced carriers with an excellent reputation, such as TVL. It provides comprehensive support to its clients at all stages of transportation, including helping to qualitatively mark, pack and safely transport all types of cargo. To apply cargo marking signs, the company uses durable materials to ensure reliability during transportation. By contacting TVL, you can be sure that the marking fully complies with the standards. TVL guarantees that all markings, including marking of vehicles when transporting dangerous goods, comply with international requirements and regulations.
