Logistics Case Study: How We Optimized a 40ft High-Cube Load for Ethiopia (Zero Deformation)

Shipping motorcycle tyres to Ethiopia is never just about transportation—it’s about preservation. Unlike coastal destinations, shipments to Ethiopia often face long inland transit times from the Port of Djibouti, exposing the cargo to extreme heat and potential road vibrations.

Recently, a major distributor in Addis Ababa challenged us: "Can you maximize the loading quantity to save shipping costs, but guarantee 0% deformation upon arrival?"

Here is how MototirePro (Ruisilife) executed this order under high-temperature conditions.

📊 Key Project Data

Parameter	Details
Destination	Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (via Djibouti)
Container Type	40ft High-Cube (HCU)
Cargo	Mixed Load: Off-road Tyres & Heavy-Duty Tubes
Challenge	Extreme Heat (40°C+) & Space Optimization
Outcome	2,800+ Units Loaded (15% more than standard)

The Challenge: Heat vs. Rubber

In August, temperatures at our Chongqing factory approached 40°C. For rubber products, loading in high heat carries a risk: Softening.

If tyres are stuffed into a container while the rubber is too soft from ambient heat, the bottom layers can suffer from permanent compression deformation. When the customer opens the container 45 days later, they might find oval-shaped tyres that are impossible to sell.

Our Solution: The "Cooling & Interlocking" Protocol

To ensure our client received pristine goods, our logistics team implemented a strict 2-step loading protocol.

1. The 24-Hour Pre-Cooling Phase

Instead of moving tyres directly from the production line (curing press) to the container, we staged the entire order in our temperature-controlled warehouse for 24 hours. This allows the rubber compound to stabilize and harden fully before being subjected to stacking pressure.

2. Interlocking Stacking Technique (The Space Saver)

Many suppliers just stack tyres vertically (like coins). This wastes huge amounts of air space.

We used the Interlocking Method:

• Tyres are stacked in a braided pattern.

• Smaller sizes (e.g., 3.00-18) are nested inside larger sizes or placed in the gaps.

Result: We managed to fit approx. 15% more inventory into the single 40ft HQ container compared to standard pallet loading. This directly lowered the shipping cost per unit for our Ethiopian client.

Quality Control: Before the Doors Close

Before sealing the container, our QC team performed a final "Shake Test" and reinforced the rear rows with heavy-duty netting. This ensures that when the container is offloaded onto a truck for the rough journey to Addis Ababa, the cargo does not shift or collapse.

The Result: 100% Sellable Stock

Upon arrival in Ethiopia, the client reported zero deformation. Every tyre retained its perfect round shape, ready for the local Boda Boda market.

"MototirePro understands that shipping cost is part of the product cost. Their loading team saved us money without sacrificing quality." — Mr. A (Distributor, Ethiopia)

💡 Importing to Africa? Let Us Handle the Logistics

Don't let inefficient loading eat your profit margins. Whether you are shipping to Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, or inland to Ethiopia, we know how to pack for profit.

Need a quote including estimated shipping volume?

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