Dunnage

Dunnage refers to any material used to cushion, brace, or separate goods within a container, truck, or storage area. Common dunnage materials include wooden planks, cardboard, foam inserts, air pillows, bubble wrap, and inflatable bags. The purpose is to prevent product damage from vibration, shifting, compression, or moisture during handling and transit.

Damaged goods represent direct financial loss and erode customer trust. Proper dunnage is especially important for international shipments that endure long sea voyages, multiple handling points, and varying climate conditions. In Qatar's hot and humid port environment, moisture-absorbing dunnage also protects goods from condensation damage inside containers — a common issue known as container rain.

Wooden dunnage used in international shipping must comply with ISPM 15 standards, which require heat treatment or fumigation to prevent the spread of pests across borders. Qatar customs authorities may inspect and reject shipments with non-compliant wooden packaging materials. Alternative materials like recycled cardboard and plastic are gaining adoption as they avoid ISPM 15 requirements entirely.