There are many ways a product can be damaged during transport. Some common causes are:
- Severe impact
- Crate design flaws or failures
- Improper stacking resulting in crushing
- End-user improperly handling or unpacking
- Hidden damage from internal cushioning or bracing failure
You'll need to identify what the cause of damage may be by capturing critical data; take a photo of the damaged crated products for trouble shooting later, check damage indicators like a Tip N Tell or Shock Watch for abuse, and finally a consideration to lab test the crated product may reveal the cause of damage.
Video: How to Improve Crate Performance
Watch Part 4 "How to Improve Packaging Performance" of our 7 part webinar on Improving Packaging Performance.
Southern California Labs that offer testing for crated items:
WestPak
Website: http://westpak.com/
Phone: 858-623-8100
Address: 10326 Roselle St. San Diego, CA 92121
About: The mission of Westpak is to provide the best possible and highest quality testing services in an environmentally friendly manner, using calibrated and well-maintained equipment at all times, conducted by test engineers that are knowledgeable, highly motivated, and well-trained.
National Technical Systems (NTS)
Website: http://nts.com/
Phone: 818-591-0776
California Locations: Culver City, Dana Point, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Silicon Valley
About: NTS offers a vast array of testing and certification services for product developers and manufacturers in numerous industries.
EP laboratories, Inc.(EPL)
Website: http://ep-labs.com/
Phone: 949-387-6555
Address: 196 Technology Dr. Ste. A Irvine, CA 92618
About: EPL is an independent laboratory that specializes in testing services only. They are dedicated to providing the highest level of quality and commitment.
