Types of Dunnage in Freight Shipping: Choosing the Best Option for Your Cargo

Shipping freight is more than just loading a truck and hitting the road. The journey to the final destination comes with bumps, vibrations, shocks, and potential hazards that can damage cargo. That’s where dunnage comes in.

Whether shipping large machinery, construction materials, or sensitive equipment, the right dunnage can make all the difference in protecting your freight during transit.

What is Dunnage?

In the shipping industry, dunnage refers to any protective material used to cushion, separate, or secure cargo during transit. It prevents movement, fills gaps, absorbs shocks, and prevents direct contact between freight and the trailer or shipping container.

For example, in flatbed shipping, dunnage is often placed between the cargo and the trailer deck to make loading and unloading easier while protecting the freight from damage. In dry van and container shipping, dunnage helps separate and stabilize goods to prevent shifting.

Depending on the type of shipment, the dunnage options will vary. Selecting the proper dunnage ensures your cargo remains intact, reducing the risk of potential damage.

Why Do Shippers Use Dunnage?

Freight shipments are constantly exposed to various materials and external factors, including road vibrations, sudden stops, and even temperature changes. Without damage protection dunnage, you risk costly product losses and unhappy customers.

Without proper dunnage, freight can move around during transit, leading to:

• Damage to goods – Shifting, rubbing, or impact can cause dents, scratches, or breakage.
• Safety hazards – Unsecured cargo can make unloading dangerous for workers.
• Rejected shipments – Damaged products may be returned, delaying deliveries.
• Higher costs – Replacements, repairs, and claims add up.
• Lower customer satisfaction – When shipments arrive damaged or delayed, it can frustrate customers and harm your business reputation.

Types of Dunnage Used in Trucking

The type of dunnage you need depends on your shipping container, freight type, cargo weight, fragility, and protection needs. Below are some of the most commonly used dunnage materials:

1. Wood Dunnage

• Typically used in flatbed and open-deck shipping.
• Creates a stable base for heavy items.
• Helps with forklift access for easy loading/unloading.
• Common types include wood blocks, floor dunnage, and wooden pallets
• Helps prevent moisture protection issues, making it less ideal for certain goods.

2. Plastic Dunnage

• Includes solid plastic dunnage and plastic bracing
• Reusable dunnage option, reducing environmental impact
• Resistant to moisture and chemicals, making it ideal for medical equipment
• Used for delicate or high-value items that require extra protection.
• Commonly used in custom dunnage solutions for unique cargo

3. Foam Dunnage

• Best for shock absorption of fragile items
• Common in shipping delicate items like glass products or sensitive electronics
• Lightweight and easy to customize for different freight types

4. Inflatable Dunnage Bags

• Used in dry van and container shipping to fill gaps.
• Reduces empty space in boxes, keeping fragile products from shifting
• Cost-effective and adjustable based on cargo needs.

5. Paper-Based Dunnage

• Includes kraft paper and cardboard inserts.
• Cost-effective for lightweight goods.
• Used frequently in dry van shipping

Best Dunnage for Flatbed Shipments

Flatbed loads require extra attention because they are exposed to the elements and often consist of heavy, oversized, or irregularly shaped cargo. Unlike enclosed trailers, flatbeds don’t have walls to keep freight contained, making proper dunnage and securement methods essential.

To stabilize and protect loads, flatbed shippers commonly use:

• Wood Blocks & Cribbing – Used to create a stable base, especially for steel pipes, heavy machinery, and large equipment. These materials help evenly distribute weight and reduce direct contact with the trailer deck.
• Rubber Mats & Friction Pads – Placed beneath cargo to prevent sliding and shifting. These are particularly useful when transporting smooth-surfaced freight, such as metal coils or prefabricated structures.
• Plastic Bracing – Provides additional reinforcement for irregularly shaped or delicate items, ensuring they remain stable throughout transit.
• Inflatable Dunnage Bags – Ideal for filling gaps and preventing lateral movement in mixed-load shipments.

Securement Beyond Dunnage

Securing flatbed freight also requires strong and properly tensioned securement equipment. 

Common types include:

• Heavy-duty straps to tightly secure cargo without causing damage.
• Chains and binders for extra-strength securement of extremely heavy loads like construction materials and machinery.
• Tarping solutions to protect shipments from rain, wind, and road debris.

Using the right combination of dunnage and securement methods not only protects cargo from damage but also ensures compliance with FMCSA cargo securement regulations. 

At Mercer Transportation, we’ve built our reputation by handling flatbed shipments with precision and care. Our experienced owner-operators know that using the right dunnage and securement techniques is key to preventing damage, ensuring safety, and delivering on time.

How to Make Sure You Have Enough Dunnage

Ensuring you have enough dunnage before shipping prevents costly delays.

Here are some best practices:

• Assess your cargo’s weight and fragility to determine the dunnage material needed.
• Plan for extra dunnage—it’s better to have too much than too little.
• Store it properly – Keep dunnage dry and organized to maintain its quality.
• Communicate with your shipping provider to confirm that the right dunnage is available.

Many companies store dunnage in racks to keep materials easily accessible and always stocked.

What is a Dunnage Rack?

A dunnage rack is a storage platform designed to keep dunnage organized, protected, and ready for use. Whether placed in a warehouse or on a truck, these racks allow for easy access to different types of protective material when needed.

For shippers who frequently use dunnage, having a dedicated rack helps simplify the loading process and prevents waste or misplacement.

Ship Safely With Mercer Transportation

Dunnage might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in protecting cargo.
At Mercer Transportation, we understand the crucial role of dunnage in protecting freight shipments. Our team ensures that every load is properly secured with the right dunnage material. Whether you’re moving heavy items or delicate items, Mercer provides reliable shipping solutions to keep your freight safe, secure, and in pristine condition.