Protecting outdoor furniture during the long and demanding journey of ocean shipping requires a meticulous, multi-layered approach from the factory floor. The primary goal is to defend against physical impact, moisture, and environmental shifts. The process begins with a thorough cleaning and drying of each piece to prevent mold or mildew formation in the confined, humid container space.

The first line of defense is high-quality, furniture-specific packaging. Each component is typically wrapped in soft foam or bubble wrap, with special attention to corners, edges, and delicate fittings like glass tabletops or woven threads. For metal furniture, a VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) paper wrap is often used to prevent rust. This initial layer is then frequently followed by a robust, waterproof plastic stretch film to create a sealed barrier against humidity and salt air.

For ultimate protection, the wrapped items are secured inside custom-sized, plywood crates or heavy-duty cardboard cartons. These outer containers are rigid, preventing crushing and allowing for safe stacking inside the shipping container. Furniture is strategically positioned and tightly immobilized within the crate using wooden braces, foam blocks, and nylon straps to eliminate any movement during transit. Desiccant bags are placed inside to absorb any residual moisture.

Finally, during container loading, crates are evenly distributed and securely lashed to the container walls. The entire process, from initial wrap to final lashing, is designed to ensure your outdoor furniture arrives in pristine condition, ready for its new home.