Shipping & Storage: How to Safely Transport Plastic Food Containers Overseas

By Kevin Chen, Senior Packaging Engineer at YQ Food Container Co.
15+ years in international packaging logistics │ SGS Test Report Available │ BRC Certified Manufacturer
© 2025 Quanzhou Yiqiang Plastic Co., Ltd.

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Introduction: Why Safe Transport Matters for Plastic Packaging

When shipping plastic food containers overseas, poor handling or improper packaging can lead to deformation, contamination, or loss of product integrity. Whether you’re importing for wholesale or exporting to global clients, understanding how to ship and store plastic containers correctly is crucial for maintaining quality and compliance.

This guide covers essential logistics tips, packaging practices, and export safeguards to ensure your goods arrive intact and contamination-free.

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Types of Plastic Containers Most Commonly Exported

Before preparing for shipment, identify your product category:

• Meal Prep Containers (rectangular/round PP)

• Deli Containers (transparent PET or PP)

• Portion Cups & Sauce Cups (1 oz–5 oz)

• Sushi Boxes & Fruit Clamshells

Each type requires tailored packaging due to material flexibility, lid attachment, and stackability.

📌 Internal Link Suggestion: [1 oz to 4 oz Portion Cups with Lids →]

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Shipping Challenges for Plastic Food Containers

❌ Container Warping

Heat, compression, or loose stacking can cause trays and lids to deform during transit.

❌ Lid Separation

Containers with loose-fitting lids may arrive detached, making them unsuitable for sale.

❌ Crushing & Nesting Damage

When improperly nested, thinner plastics may crack or warp, especially in clamshell or round cup designs.

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Best Practices for Export Packaging & Palletizing

✅ Use Food-Grade PE Bags + Carton Boxes

Every batch should be packed in a sealed inner polybag to prevent dust and odor contamination.

✅ Stack by Size and Shape

Avoid mismatched stacking; use interlocking nesting only where appropriate (e.g., PP trays).

✅ Carton Labeling & Traceability

Clearly print:

• SKU and Product Size

• Lot Number & Production Date

• Handling Instructions (e.g., “Keep Dry”, “Fragile – Stack Max 5 High”)

📌 Internal Link Suggestion: [Microwave Safe Disposable Plastic Containers →]

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Recommended Pallet Configuration

💡 Tip: Always use pallet film wrapping + corner protectors for extra support.

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Storage Recommendations Post-Arrival

Once containers arrive at your warehouse or distribution hub:

• Store in cool, dry indoor environments

• Avoid direct sunlight (may degrade plastic or ink)

• Do not stack more than 5 layers of cartons to prevent compression

• Conduct random inspections for warping or dust contamination

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Shipping Certifications and Documentation to Request

• SGS Test Report for food-contact safety

• BRC / ISO 22000 Certificate for hygiene compliance

• Packing List & CO (Certificate of Origin) for customs

• Photographs Before Shipment (pre-loading inspection)

📌 Internal Link Suggestion: [Guide to Disposable Deli Containers →]

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Why Choose YQ Food Container for Global Shipping

YQ Food Container exports to over 60 countries with a logistics-ready supply chain:

• Cartons designed for container optimization

• Global compliance (SGS/BRC) included

• Experience in shipping to Amazon warehouses, restaurant chains, and distributors

• Custom labeling & multi-size container packing in one shipment

We support 20GP, 40GP, and 40HQ full container load (FCL) or LCL export based on your needs.

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Conclusion

Shipping plastic food containers internationally isn’t just about getting them from A to B—it’s about maintaining their shape, hygiene, and commercial value upon arrival.

Use this guide to prevent losses, reduce complaints, and ensure your products arrive in top condition—ready to impress your clients and end users.

Need help designing your next export shipment?
Contact YQ Food Container for safe, scalable, and certified plastic packaging logistics.