Stuffing

Stuffing (also called “vanning” or “container loading”) is the process of loading cargo into a shipping container. Proper stuffing is critical for cargo safety, weight compliance, and damage prevention during the long journey across oceans.

Why Stuffing Matters

Safety Concerns

• Poorly loaded containers can shift at sea
• Weight imbalance affects vessel stability
• Improperly secured cargo damages other goods
• Container can become dangerous to open

Cost Implications

• Damage claims from poor loading
• Rejected containers at port
• Overweight penalties
• Insurance issues

Stuffing Locations

Shipper’s Facility

• Door-to-door FCL shipments
• Shipper controls loading
• Container delivered empty
• Seal applied after loading

Container Freight Station (CFS)

• LCL consolidations
• Professional loading
• Multiple shippers’ cargo
• Forwarder supervises

Warehouse/3PL

• 3PL handles on shipper’s behalf
• Professional equipment available
• Documentation managed
• Quality control

Container Stuffing Guidelines

Weight Distribution

CORRECT weight distribution:
┌────────────────────────────┐
│ ████ Heavy ████ Heavy ████ │
│ ░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░│ ← Light on top
│ ████ Heavy ████ Heavy ████ │
└────────────────────────────┘
     ↑ Heavy at bottom, centered ↑

INCORRECT - off balance:
┌────────────────────────────┐
│                 ██████████ │
│                 ██████████ │ ← Container tips
│ ░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░░██████████ │
└────────────────────────────┘

Weight Limits

Note: Road limits often more restrictive than container capacity.

Stuffing Best Practices

Before Loading

1. Inspect container condition
2. Check for holes, damage, odors
3. Clean if necessary
4. Photograph empty container
5. Verify container number matches booking

During Loading

1. Heavy items at bottom
2. Distribute weight evenly (left-right, front-back)
3. Fill gaps with dunnage
4. Secure cargo to prevent shifting
5. Block and brace as needed
6. Don’t exceed weight limits

After Loading

1. Take photographs of loaded container
2. Record seal number
3. Apply seal properly
4. Complete stuffing report
5. Retain documentation

Cargo Securing Methods

Blocking

• Prevents forward/backward movement
• Wood, air bags, or bracing
• Fill voids between cargo and walls
• Critical for heavy items

Bracing

• Horizontal supports
• Prevents side-to-side movement
• Uses wood beams or metal bars
• Especially for stacked cargo

Lashing

• Straps, ropes, chains
• Tie-down to container rings
• Must handle g-forces at sea
• Regular inspection points

Dunnage

• Fill material between cargo
• Air bags, foam, cardboard
• Protects from vibration/impact
• Absorbs moisture

Special Cargo Considerations

Heavy Machinery

• Floor loading limits (5-6 tons/sqm)
• Center of gravity
• Adequate spreading
• Professional rigging

Fragile Items

• Extra padding
• “This Side Up” orientation
• Climate considerations
• Double-wall containers

Mixed Cargo (LCL)

• Don’t mix incompatibles
• Heavier at bottom
• Clear labeling
• Accessible items at doors

Stuffing Documentation

Container Stuffing Report

Container #: MSCU1234567
Seal #: ABC12345
Date: 01-FEB-2026
Location: Chicago CFS

Contents:
- 120 cartons @ 25 kg = 3,000 kg
- 80 pallets @ 500 kg = 40,000 kg
Total: 43,000 kg

Remarks: All cargo secured with
blocking and lashing. Photos attached.

Signed: ________________

Photos to Take

• Empty container (interior condition)
• Loading progress
• Final loaded view
• Seal applied and number visible
• Container exterior