Shipping large quantities of aluminum cans must be carefully executed so that the transportation process is safe and swift. What parts of beer seem like they weigh the least — an empty aluminum can, a fistful of bottle caps or a couple hundred pounds of brown glass bottles? Each gives way to more mass when shipped by the truckload: Even empty cans come in at 13–15 grams each for standard sizes but their total weight becomes a sizable logistical burden. Given that cans are so light, a full truckload can haul upwards of 100,000 empty cans while minimizing shipping costs.
Cans are shipped in special pallets or trays that ensure that the empty cans do not move during transport. The cans are layered and often shrink-wrapped to keep stack piles intact. This configuration prevents the need for any of this stacking which saves space as well and lowers possibility of denting or deformation. Stronger pallets also enable vertical trailer stacking to fill every inch available, a major advantage when millions of cans are shipped monthly.
If the cans need to be shipped long-distance or abroad then many manufacturers package those in 40-foot shipping containers. These containers are purpose-built because they can be loaded directly onto trucks, freight trains, or cargo ships without needing repacking which minimizes shipping time and cost. We can fit 220,000 cans depending on can size and packing method in each container for cost-effective mass distribution.
Bulk aluminum cans are easily damaged during shipping, which means logistics companies that handle them need to pay attention and take special care of it. Air cushions or padding between pallet stacks offers additional protective measures that absorb impact or vibration and further mitigate the potential for damage. Loading and unloading are time-consuming processes, so it is important they operate efficiently — production schedules will be affected if the loading or unloading process takes too long due to keeping beverage companies on rigid timelines.
Up to 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use due to the recyclability of aluminum cans lightweight, attractive and easy to recycle make them a staple material among various industries, especially for beverages. Expedited and efficient shipping methods will soon aid in ensuring that the industry stays true to its commitment to sustainability by reducing emissions and costs.
bulk aluminum cans shipped using safe, cost-effective, and easy-to-handle pallet stacking, container utilization, and damage prevention measures. And these are necessary practices for keeping a steady supply chain for the industries that rely on aluminum cans as primarily their packaging solution to ensure constant consumer access to products.