Cargo shifting inside a container or trailer is one of the most common causes of freight damage claims. Inflatable dunnage bags address this by filling the void space between cargo units and the container wall, absorbing shock and vibration during transit.
A dunnage bag is placed in the gap between stacked pallets, drums, or crates, then inflated with a standard air compressor or hand pump until it fills the void snugly. Once inflated, the bag acts as a cushion that resists movement in all directions, not just side to side.
The right bag size and pressure rating depend on the void dimensions, the weight of the cargo being braced, and the mode of transport. Oversizing a bag for the void can put unnecessary pressure on the container wall, while undersizing leaves room for the cargo to shift, so accurate void measurement before ordering matters.
Compared to wooden blocking and bracing, inflatable dunnage bags are faster to install, lighter to ship, and don't require specialized carpentry on-site — a meaningful advantage for exporters loading containers under time pressure.