In cases where packaging is required by the type of goods, a condition is included in the contract containing an indication of the type and nature of the package, its quality, size, method of payment, as well as the application of each labeling place to the package.
The definition of the type of packaging depends on the characteristics of the goods. Packaging can range from a few percent to 50% of the value of the goods. The main requirements for packaging are to ensure the physical safety of goods during delivery on basic conditions and environmental safety. Exporters are always liable for damage to the goods if they occur due to the non-compliance of the packaging with the basic terms of delivery.
There are external packaging – containers (boxes, cardboard boxes, barrels, containers, etc.) and internal packaging, not – separable from the goods. The quality of both outer and inner packaging is most often established by listing the requirements that it must meet. Where there are established standards or specifications for packaging, its quality may be determined by reference to the relevant standards and specifications.
In most cases, not only the inner packaging, but also the external (container) becomes the property of the buyer simultaneously with the goods. An exception is made when the contract provides for either the shipment of goods in containers provided in advance by the buyer, or the return of the container by the buyer to the seller (when supplying chemical goods and mineral oils in metal drums, glass bottles, etc.). When the package becomes the property of the buyer, he pays its price to the seller. Methods of payment for packaging are established by the parties in the contract and may include: the inclusion of the packaging price in the price of the goods; determination of the price of packaging as a percentage of the price of the goods.
Marking is also a mandatory element of the technology of foreign trade operations. It is carried out in accordance with generally accepted international standards and special requirements of buyers, which are fixed in the contract. Distinguish between identification and warning markings. Identification marking, unless otherwise specified in the contract, must contain the following details:
identification of the importer (name of consignee and destination); Contract No.; identification of the exporter (name of the consignor and point of departure); weight and dimensions of seats; number of seats in the party.
Warning markings consisting of symbols (signs and inscriptions) characterizing the natural properties of the goods and indicating the method of handling the goods during loading / unloading, transportation and storage, must be applied to the packaging of each place. The application of a warning label is recognized as the obligation of the seller, regardless of the instructions for this in the contract.