When metal trims and panels are not roll-formed on the jobsite, careful consideration must be given to their safe transportation. Ensuring that these components arrive at their destination without damage is imperative to maintaining quality and cost-effectiveness. Customers expect and deserve their orders to arrive intact and complete, without missing pieces. Proper packaging and handling techniques can make all the difference.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Packaging
Metal panels, trims, and accessories are susceptible to damage during shipping. Scratches, dents, and other flaws can compromise their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. To avoid these issues, it’s important to use appropriate packaging materials and methods tailored to the unique needs of the metal building components.
Protective Materials
Using the right materials for packaging metal components is crucial. Some of the most effective materials include:
• Stretch Wrap: A preferred choice for securing panels and trims, as it prevents movement and minimizes vibrations that could cause surface damage.
• Foam Rolls and Bubble Wrap: Used for added cushioning, particularly for fragile trim pieces and fasteners.
• Corner Protectors: For preventing edge damage during handling and transport.
• Adhesive Protective Film: Helps prevent scratches and surface wear on painted metal panels.
• Corrugated Products: Provide additional support for certain panel types that do not stack neatly.
Helpful Equipment
Ameripak Inc., a leader in packaging solutions for the metal building industry, offers specialized equipment designed to streamline the packaging process. Their machinery ensures that metal components are efficiently wrapped and secured for shipping, reducing downtime and increasing production output.
Rob Bowlin, Special Project Manager with Ameripak, explains the company’s high-speed packaging machines work in tandem with modern roll formers. These machines allow for rapid stacking and packaging of metal panels; reduced downtime by eliminating manual wrapping delays; the ability to process and stretch-wrap panels more efficiently than conventional metal banding and paper wrapping; and improved workflow, enabling continuous production without interruptions.
This manufacturer writes order information in permanent marker directly on shrink wrap.
Photo courtesy of Ameripak, Inc. 
Photos courtesy of Rob Bowlin, Ameripak Inc., www.ameripak.net
Full encapsulation means full protection from the elements and more secure shipping.
Trim pieces require extra care to prevent scratches and dents. Trim wrappers can securely bundle trim pieces to prevent rubbing during transit and make it easy to identify and separate job-specific components.
Automatic and semi-automatic models are available to suit different budgets and needs. Ameripak equipment provides a durable, heavy-duty design built for the rigorous metal building industry.
Challenges of Standing Seam Panels
Unlike through-fastened panels, standing seam panels are more difficult to stack and secure due to their lack of structural stability between ribs, which presents a unique packaging challenge. Advice for preparing SSMR panels includes:
• Using Wooden Crates: Provides structural support and a secure strapping point for transport.
• Adding Styrofoam Inserts: Helps separate and protect panels, though disposal can be a concern.
• Stretch Wrapping When Feasible: While effective for most metal components, standing seam panels often require additional support.
Best Practices for Shipping Accessories
To prevent loss or damage of smaller components such as closure strips, fasteners and trim, consider the following:
• Use Protective Foam and Bubble Wrap: Adds cushioning to prevent impact damage.
• Corner and Edge Protectors: Helps keep delicate edges intact.
• Proper Labeling: Clearly mark packages to ensure easy identification and sorting at the job site.
• Job-Packaging Method: Bundle components together according to the job site for streamlined unloading and installation.
Do’s and Don’ts When Preparing Metal Components for Shipping
Do’s:
• Stack Components Securely: Nest panels together and wrap them immediately after forming.
• Use Stretch Wrap for Protection: Helps minimize vibration and friction damage.
• Clearly Label Packages: Use markers or labels to identify job-specific components.
• Minimize Handling: The fewer times metal is handled before being wrapped, the lower the risk of damage.
Don’ts:
• Don’t Allow Painted Surfaces to Rub Together: This can lead to scratches and premature wear.
• Don’t Over-Tighten Straps: Excessive pressure can deform panels.
• Don’t Overlook Unpackaging Considerations: Inform end-users about best practices for safely opening and handling materials. Proper unpacking is just as important as packaging. Strategies to ensure materials remain in pristine condition could include use of high-visibility labels with clear warnings to prevent improper handling. Some manufacturers use a permanent marker to write identifying information and cautions directly on the stretch wrap.
Efficient and Sustainable Packaging Solutions
Stretch wrapping is a highly effective method for packaging metal construction components, offering:
• A smaller resource footprint compared to traditional crating methods.
• Reduced waste and easier job-site cleanup.
• Versatility, allowing it to be used for trims, panels, and palletized materials.
Conclusion
Ameripak remains committed to delivering innovative packaging solutions for the metal building industry. Their durable and efficient wrapping systems not only protect metal components but also enhance production efficiency and reduce costs. By implementing these best practices, manufacturers and suppliers can ensure that components reach their destinations safely and in perfect condition. RF
