Dunnage Bag

Plain-English Meaning

Dunnage bags are common in enclosed freight where gaps between pallet rows or cargo faces need control. They can help reduce movement when the cargo face, bag size, pressure, and placement are suitable.

A bag should bear against freight that can handle the pressure. Weak cartons, crushed pallets, sharp edges, and uneven product faces can make the bag ineffective or damaging.

For reefer freight, bag placement should not block required airflow or conflict with temperature-control instructions.

In day-to-day freight work, the safest use of the term is narrow and factual. Confirm the current rule, equipment rating, shipment condition, and company procedure before using any glossary definition for a live securement decision.

Watchouts

• Do not place a bag against weak packaging that can crush.
• Reefer airflow and customer instructions may limit placement.
• A deflated, punctured, or poorly placed bag may provide little control.

Related Terms

• Bracing
• Load Bar
• Palletized Freight