What Is Seaworthy Packing for Steel Export?

“Seaworthy packing” means the packing is adequate to protect the steel through handling, stacking, moisture and a long sea voyage. It is normally defined in the contract, because the right method depends on the product — bundles, coils, pipes and plate are all packed differently.

What seaworthy packing usually includes

• Bundling — steel strapped into bundles of an agreed size and weight for safe crane handling
• Protection — a rust-preventive coating or wrap on exposed surfaces where the specification allows
• Moisture control — waterproof wrapping or liner, and desiccant where condensation is a risk
• Edge and surface protection — corner protection and separators to prevent chafing
• Marking — shipping marks, heat number and bundle identification that match the documents
• Securing — dunnage and lashing so the cargo cannot shift in the container or hold

Why it is a contract item, not an afterthought

Packing affects both cost and claims. Two offers for the same steel can differ simply because one assumes bare strapping and the other assumes full moisture protection. State the packing standard you need in the enquiry so the offers are comparable and the risk sits where you intend.

What to write on the purchase order

1. The bundle size and maximum weight you can handle at destination
2. Whether a rust-preventive treatment is required and to which standard
3. The moisture protection and any desiccant requirement
4. The shipping marks, including heat number traceability
5. Who bears the cost of repacking or claims if the packing is inadequate

Related questions

See more answers in our Q&A and our steel knowledge base.

Frequently asked questions

What does seaworthy packing mean?

It means packing strong enough to protect the steel through handling, stacking, moisture and a long sea voyage. The exact method depends on the product and should be stated in the contract.

Is seaworthy packing the same for pipes and coils?

No. Pipes are normally bundled and strapped, coils are often eye-to-wall or eye-to-sky with edge protection, and plate is bundled with separators. Specify the product and the handling you expect.

Should packing be specified on the purchase order?

Yes. Packing affects cost and claims, so stating it in the enquiry keeps offers comparable and puts the risk where you intend.

Still have a question about your order? Send the specification, quantity and destination port and we will answer it with the quotation. See our quality and inspection process, the product catalogue, or request a quotation.