In foreign trade, 'separation' typically refers to auxiliary materials used in cargo packaging or transportation to separate or isolate different items, such as cardboard, foam, plastic film, etc. Its core function is to prevent goods from colliding, rubbing, contaminating, or tainting each other during transport, especially for fragile items, precision instruments, and mixed-category cargo. Usage scenarios include container stuffing, pallet stacking, LCL shipping, etc. Precautions: separation materials must comply with the importing country's environmental requirements (e.g., wooden separators require fumigation) and must not affect the quality of the goods themselves; if goods have anti-static requirements, anti-static separators must be used. Difference from 'dunnage': dunnage focuses on supporting and securing cargo, while separation focuses on physical isolation; difference from 'filling': filling is used to fill gaps, while separation is used for layering or compartmentalizing. Proper use of separation can reduce cargo damage rates and avoid claim risks caused by mixed loading.
📝 Examples
1. When exporting precision instruments, we placed foam separators between each device to prevent them from colliding during transport. (Note: separators are used to prevent collisions and protect precision cargo.)
2. Because the customer required that plastic pellets of different colors must not mix, we used plastic film separators inside the container to stack each color of pellets in separate zones. (Note: separators are used to isolate different categories of cargo and prevent color contamination.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner