Shape.

TM 38-260

come in contact with any face of a shipping container. They may be blocked and braced to one or more faces of an

interior container which in turn is floated by cushioning in an exterior container.

(2) Size. A large item does not necessarily require more extensive or stronger blocking or larger amounts of

cushioning than a smaller item by virtue of its size alone. The larger item may require more extensive and stronger

blocking to bridge or support the wider span between the points which support the blocking.

(3) Shape.

(a) Curved surfaces call for carefully fitted blocking and bracing to prevent damage to equipment.

(b) Long, slender items, especially if heavy, develop considerable thrust when subjected to impact and must be

blocked to prevent endwise movement.

(4) Weight. The weight of the equipment or component is a very important factor in blocking, bracing, and

cushioning.

(a) When weights are concentrated over small areas, it is often necessary to distribute the weight over larger

areas or to transfer part of weight from one container face to the edge of the corners of the container by the use of end

blocks.

(b) The heavier and more concentrated the weight of the item, the greater the requirement for blocking and

bracing.

(5) Degree of disassembly. The complexity of IPE design often dictates the removal of overhanging components

or assemblies to prevent damage or loss.

(a) The decision to remove or block and brace should be based upon the economics involved in providing

adequate protection.

(b) Disassembly may simplify blocking and bracing requirements or simplify preservation of the various parts.

(6) Type of loads. Types of loads are determined by the degree of structural strength supplied to the shipping

container by the contents. Loads are classified as type I, easy loads; type II, average loads; and type III, difficult loads.

The definition of each type is as follows:

(a) Type 1, easy load, provides support to the six faces of the container without the requirement for blocking or

bracing.

(b) Type 2, average load, provides partial support to the six faces of the container and blocking and bracing is

sometimes required.

8-7