Confirm the shipment record before departure
The receiving team should have the packing list, container or package count, weights, dimensions, handling instructions, commercial documents and site delivery contacts before cargo arrives.
Development & Humanitarian Infrastructure · Freight & receiving
What should an international project team check before modular buildings arrive?
A shipment can be manufactured correctly and still create major site problems if the receiving team is not ready. Pre-arrival planning should confirm documents, customs, inland access, unloading capacity, storage, inspection and installation sequence before the vessel or truck arrives.
Planning guidance — final supplied configuration remains project-specific.
Check the last kilometre, not only the port
Verify container or truck access, bridges, corners, gradients, overhead limits, ferry restrictions, security and site turning space. A port that can accept a container does not guarantee the final site can receive it.
Match unloading equipment to the real packages
Use actual package weights, lift points, centre-of-gravity information and unloading sequence to select cranes, forklifts or other equipment. Avoid choosing equipment from an assumed nominal module weight.
Prepare inspection and storage
Set a process for seal checks, package condition, photographs, shortage records and damage reporting. Store weather-sensitive components off the ground and protect labels so installation teams can identify packages later.
Sequence delivery with site readiness
Foundations, access, utilities, laydown and installation labour should be ready for the relevant shipment phase. Excess early delivery can create storage damage and handling cost, while late site readiness can create demurrage or programme delay.
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