When it comes to transporting cargo safely, few tools are as simple yet effective as dunnage bags. These inflatable air cushions are designed to stabilise cargo, prevent movement, and fill empty spaces within a trailer, container, or railcar. Whether you’re hauling pallets of electronics, crates of food, or heavy industrial components, using dunnage bags inflatable ensures your types of cargo arrive intact and damage-free.
In this post, we’ll explore what dunnage bags are, the different types available, and how to choose the right dunnage bag supplier to ensure you get the right product for your types of loads, all while staying compliant with cargo securement regulations.
What Are Dunnage Bags?
Dunnage bags—also called air bags—are inflatable bladders used to fill void sizes between cargo items, preventing shifting and absorbing impact during transit. They are commonly used in trucks, shipping containers, railcars, and even ships.
By expanding to fit snugly between loads, these bags help evenly distribute pressure, improve load securement, and stabilise cargo without damaging packaging or materials.
Types of Dunnage Bags
There are several different types of dunnage bags available, depending on your cargo’s weight, transport method, and desired durability:
- Paper Dunnage Bags
Made with multiple layers of kraft paper, these are perfect for light to medium-duty loads. They’re cost-effective and recyclable, making them a sustainable choice for standard applications. - Poly Woven Dunnage Bags
Built with a woven polypropylene outer shell, poly woven bags are stronger, more water-resistant, and designed for heavier loads or environments with high humidity. These are ideal for export shipments and long-haul transport. - Custom Sizes and Grades
Dunnage bags come in a variety of sizes and strength levels to suit the types of loads you’re transporting.
Key Considerations: Void Size & Working Load Limit
To choose the right dunnage bag, you’ll need to know two things:
- Void Size: Measure the gap between cargo items. The bag must be large enough to fill the void completely without being overinflated.
- Working Load Limit (WLL): This refers to the maximum weight the bag can safely support. It’s critical to select a dunnage bag with a WLL appropriate for your types of cargo and the transportation method.
Always check manufacturer specs and follow proper inflation procedures to ensure safety and compliance.
Cargo Securement Regulations & Dunnage Bags
Using dunnage bags is one of the most effective ways to meet cargo securement regulations set by agencies like the FMCSA, DOT, and international transport authorities.
When used correctly, dunnage bags help you maintain full compliance with both national and international guidelines for transporting cargo.
Why Choose Inflatable Dunnage Bags?
Here’s why more shippers and carriers rely on dunnage bags inflatable systems:
- Fast and easy to install
- Reusable and recyclable options available
- Adaptable to nearly all types of loads
- Reliable support for high-impact environments
Help prevent movement and maintain cargo integrity