Getting Auto Parts Ready for a Road Trip: Packing Tips
October 23, 2024
Packing is a big part of preparing for a trip, and there are good and bad ways to do it. The same is true when shipping auto parts: the worst methods can result in damage (including corrosion) to the metal, while the best methods can save time and money by effective and efficient protection. After years of experience in the industry, Cortec® suggests the following packing tips for auto parts going on a road trip or ocean voyage.
1. Choose Dry Protection
Next to effective rust prevention, dry protection is one of the best options because it eliminates the extra mess and labor associated with applying and removing greasy rust preventatives. CorShield® VpCI®-146 paper or CorShield® VpCI®-220E films and bags are excellent places to start because they condition the package with corrosion inhibiting vapors that do not need to be cleaned off before the part can be used. Dry film rust preventatives such as VpCI®-377 or BioCorr® are also great alternatives to greases or oils.
2. Add Extra Protection When Needed
Overseas shipment in containers may require more protection than a domestic truck shipment because of greater potential exposure to corrosive elements. Parts that will be stored upon arrival may also need extended protection. Adding a BioPad® to the package is a great way to boost the level of vapor-phase protection for harsher conditions or longer durations
3. Consider Your Processes
Standard processes can further influence the choice of product. For example, using CorShield® VpCI®- 146 paper to sandwich brake rotors on pallets was easier for one manufacturer to incorporate into its robotic packaging method than VpCI® film, but CorPak® VpCI® Stretch Film worked fine for automatic pallet wrapping. Dry film rust preventatives tend to be more compatible with tight tolerances and automatic assembly than greases. Additionally, if SOP (standard operating procedures) do not allow the removal of process oils, it may be necessary to use a VpCI® paper with higher grease resistance.
Each auto parts trip is different, so be sure to weigh your options carefully. With the right packaging/ rust preventative system, you can eliminate headaches, wasted time, and monetary losses by streamlining the process and delivering goods corrosion-free. Be sure to contact us for further advice from our auto industry experts Mike Gabor and Jessica Carpenter!
Keywords: auto parts, packaging tips, rust prevention, packaging tips for auto parts, VCI film, VCI paper, export packaging solutions, Cortec, shipping auto parts, robotic packaging methods
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