FAQs

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Common Questions About Dunnage Bags

What are dunnage bags?

A. They are paper bags, constructed of 2, 4, 6, or 8 plys of paper with a polyethylene bladder used to restrain loads in rail cars or trucks.

Why use air dunnage bags vs. other materials?
A. Dunnage bags are less expensive than other materials such as lumber, nails and also reduce labor cost.
What size and ply bags does Dunnage Systems have available?
A. See Dunnage Systems Products
What is the actual size of the dunnage bags before inflation?
ASeriesActual Width
 2424 Inches/62 cm
 3030 Inches/77 cm
 3636 Inches/92 cm
 4846.5 Inches/119 cm
 6057.5 Inches/147 cm
 7269.5 Inches/178 cm
What is the maximum diameter of the dunnage bags fully inflated?
ASeriesActual Width
 2415.3 Inches/39 cm
 3019.1 Inches/49 cm
 3622.9 Inches/59 cm
 4829.6 Inches/76 cm
 6036.6 Inches/94 cm
 7244.9 Inches/115 cm

A. 2ply bags.

What type of dunnage bags is most commonly used for container shipments?

A. 4 ply

What type of dunnage bag is most commonly used for rail shipments?

A.  4 ply, 6 ply, or 8 ply

How many lbs/kg can a dunnage bag restrain?

A.
2 ply – 40,000 LBS/18,182 kg
4 ply – 60,000 LBS/27,273 kg
6 ply – 100,000 LBS/45,455 kg
8 ply – 120,000 LBS/54,545 kg

Are there any published specifications for dunnage bags?

A. The Association of American Railroads has published recommended specifications.

How do I determine what size dunnage bag to use?

A.

  1. Measure void between cargo.
  2. Measure distance from floor to the top of load.

24”/62 cm width—-8”/21 cm void 
30”/77 cm width—10”/26 cm void
36”/92 cm width—12”/31 cm void
48”/92 cm width—15”138 cm void
60”/154 cm width–20”/51 cm void
72”/185 cm width–24”/62 cm void

A. Reduce void with old pallets, corrugated, or some type of void filler.

Do dunnage bags require any type protection?

A. It is very important to place corrugated, or some type of smooth surface on either side of the dunnage bag to protect from rough edges. (wooden crates, pallets, etc.)

What type of equipment is necessary to inflate dunnage bags?

A. 1. Compressed air
2. Inflator tool
3. Air gauge

What type of inflator equipment does Dunnage Systems have available?

1. Quick Fill Snap-on Inflator Tool
2. Quick Fill Combination Inflator Tool
3. Rapid Fill Inflator Tool
4. Air Compressor
5. Hose and Reel

Can dunnage bags be damaged during filling?

Bags can be cold burned and can be burst with over inflation. (Each bag has a label with recommended pressure. If inflation check list is followed, it will eliminate these problems.

Does Dunnage Systems have printed material available?
A. We have brochures on bags and inflator tools available.
Why use our inflatable dunnage bags vs. our competitors?

1. Ours was the first dunnage bag and has been improved for years. 
2. Top quality materials are used in the bags and and every 12th bag is physically tested (8%). 
3. Integrated company producing everything that goes in their bag except the valve. 

Does Dunnage Systems sell a reusable bag?

A. Yes, however, our concern in selling a reusable bag is as follows:
1. We do not have any control over how a bag is used; therefore, we can not guarantee how many times it can be used.
2. The bags have a significant upcharge. Most customers do not have enough control to get the bag back, thus they pay for a bag to reuse that they do not get to reuse. Many times bags are punctured to release the air and thrown away. However, we have added an additional label to try to eliminate this problem.

How do I choose the right type of void filler for my cargo?
Choosing the right void filler depends on your cargo’s size, weight, and fragility. Consider the transportation method and any specific voids that need to be filled to prevent shifting. Our team can help you select the perfect fit from our range of high-quality, customizable void fillers to ensure optimal protection.
Can air dunnage bags be reused, and if so, how many times?
Yes, our air dunnage bags, especially the polywoven type, can be reused multiple times if they remain undamaged. The exact number of uses depends on handling and environmental conditions, but they are designed for durability and longevity.
What are the environmental benefits of using Dunnage Systems' products?
Our products are made from recyclable and reusable materials, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. By using eco-friendly materials like kraft paper and polywoven fabrics, we help lower the environmental impact of cargo protection.
What support does Dunnage Systems offer for product installation and use?
Dunnage Systems provides comprehensive support, including detailed installation guides, instructional videos, and personalized assistance from our expert team. We ensure that you have the knowledge and tools needed for efficient and effective use of our products.
How do I maintain and store dunnage bags for long-term use?
To maintain and store dunnage bags, ensure they are clean and dry before storage. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Regularly inspect the bags for any signs of damage and repair or replace them as needed to ensure continued effectiveness.

Common Questions About Dunnage Bags

  1. Q. What are dunnage bags?
    A. They are paper bags, constructed of 2, 4, 6, or 8 plys of paper with a polyethylene bladder used to restrain loads in rail cars or trucks.
  2. Q. Why use air dunnage bags vs. other materials?
    A. Dunnage bags are less expensive than other materials such as lumber, nails and also reduce labor cost.
  3. Q. What size and ply bags does Dunnage Systems have available?
    A. See Dunnage Systems Products

4. Q. What is the actual size of the dunnage bags before inflation?

5. Q.  What is the maximum diameter of the dunnage bags fully inflated?

6. Q. What type of dunnage bag is recommended for truck shipments?
     A.  2ply bags.

7.  Q. What type of dunnage bags is most commonly used for container shipments?
     A.  4 ply

8.  Q. What type of dunnage bag is most commonly used for rail shipments?
      A.  4 ply, 6 ply, or 8 ply

9. Q.  How many lbs/kg can a dunnage bag restrain?

10. Q.  Are there any published specifications for dunnage bags?

 11. Q. How do I determine what size dunnage bag to use?

12.  Q. What is the maximum void recommended for dunnage bags?

13. Q. What can be done to utilize dunnage bags if void exceeds maximum recommended void?

14. Q. Do dunnage bags require any type protection?

15. Q. What type of equipment is necessary to inflate dunnage bags?

 16. Q. What type of inflator equipment does Dunnage Systems have available?

17.  Q.  Can dunnage bags be damaged during filling?

18. Q. Does Dunnage Systems have printed material available?

19. Q. Why use our inflatable dunnage bags vs. our competitors?

20. Q. Does Dunnage Systems sell a reusable bag?

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