Cargo Containers 101: What to Pack

• August 3, 2018

Last updated on April 20, 2025

A cargo container is essential for moving your possessions to an international or overseas location, but it’s not as simple as packing everything into the container. While containers can keep your items safe during transportation, there are certain items that have no place in a shipping container. Due to air freight restrictions and shipping container regulations for example, you should not risk packing:

• Items that may be dangerous during transport
• Items that are vulnerable to damage or theft
• Anything prohibited by customs

Instead of leaving it up to chance, Trans Global Auto Logistics has a handy, helpful list of items that can only hold back your shipping process.

Anything Perishable

Although transport via air or freight is quick, it’s not that quick. International shipping takes work from start to finish and it may take a few weeks for your possessions to arrive at your new home. Because of that, perishable items have no place in your cargo container.

Food is the main culprit here. Leave behind anything that could spoil. Medicine that requires refrigeration shouldn’t be packed, either. Although you can ask about refrigerated containers for anything crucial to transport, it may be better to leave the food at home and bring your medicine with you.

Potentially Explosive Items

Due to various shipping and air freight restrictions, some items are rightfully considered too dangerous for transport. Potentially explosive items top the list. You may think that you obviously don’t own anything like that, but several household items are too hazardous for transport, including:

• Pressurized aerosol spray cans
• Certain kinds of batteries
• Fireworks
• Firearms or ammunition

Try to pack any of these items and your cargo is at risk for detainment. Talk to the agent in charge of your shipment. He or she will fill you in on forbidden items and help you figure out how to ship your firearms and ammunition.

Agricultural Items

Depending on where you’re going, you may encounter shipping container regulations pertaining to agricultural items. Numerous countries have rules in place to protect their biodiversity from invasive animals and plants. As a result, you may not be able to pack plants, seeds and even gardening tools in your shipping container. The soil itself might pose an agricultural danger, so make sure to clean those items properly before trying to pack them.

Any Items of Value

While there are no air freight regulations for valuable items, as such, it makes sense to avoid packing valuables in your cargo container. Overseas shipping is safe, but valuable jewelry, sentimental items and personal documents should stay with you. Avoid packing televisions, laptops, computer monitors and any other items that may experience damage, as well.

Knowing what you should and shouldn’t pack in a cargo container can help make your international move go smoothly. Having a shipping company you can trust makes it a lot easier, too. Trans Global Auto Logistics has more than 30 years of experience in the freight forwarding industry. Give us a call today to learn how we can help you.