Packing it Safe: CTU Code Boosts Supply Chain Safety and Savings

Following a new study by Politecnico di Torino, the Cargo Integrity Group is celebrating the success of the CTU Code, a set of guidelines for safe cargo packing in containers. The research revealed significant benefits for businesses embracing the code, including improved safety, reduced costs, and overall supply chain efficiency.

The survey, conducted among shippers and forwarders, paints a clear picture of the CTU Code's positive impact. Users reported:

• Drastically reduced loading accidents and cargo damage, leading to a safer work environment and fewer damaged goods.
• Substantial cost savings, with annual costs and penalties dropping from €670,000 to €13,000 for some companies. This translates to extra costs as a percentage of revenue plummeting from 37% to 10%.
• Enhanced operational efficiency, with no additional costs incurred for employees, contractors, or vehicles. Any minor increases in loading times were offset by other CTU Code-related improvements.
• Boosted reputation thanks to the demonstrably better safety and efficiency practices.
• Reduced environmental impact due to less cargo damage and potentially fewer transportation-related emissions.

"The application of the CTU Code can elevate safety levels and enhance business processes, ultimately making companies more competitive," emphasized the report's authors, Bruno et al. "The results showcase a clear win-win situation, where safety and efficiency go hand-in-hand."

The Cargo Integrity Group, a coalition of seven industry bodies dedicated to container safety, is actively promoting the CTU Code and its benefits. They have developed resources like a Quick Guide and a Checklist to make the code easier to understand and implement.

"This survey provides the first publicly available evidence of the CTU Code's effectiveness in real-world settings," said Richard Steele, CEO of ICHCA, a founding member of the Group. "While the research focused on a specific region, the findings are undeniably encouraging. They demonstrate that good operational management, efficiency, and safety are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary."

With its proven track record of boosting safety, saving money, and streamlining operations, the CTU Code is emerging as a crucial tool for businesses navigating the complexities of today's supply chains. As the Cargo Integrity Group continues its efforts to spread awareness and provide practical resources, the code's positive impact is poised to reach even greater heights.