LOSS PREVENTION FOR CARGOES IN CONTAINER

It is common knowledge that while cargoes are neatly packed within a container, they are unlikely to travel a smooth voyage to destination. Bad weather and rough sea conditions would subject the container (although secured onboard) to tilt side-to-side, backward and forward and waltz along with the swerving of the vessel as she moves through the ocean waves. Hence it is of utmost importance that packing of goods within a container must be professionally carried out to minimize the above effects on the cargoes and prevent damage.

Both the parties undertaking container loading (e.g. CFS operator) and shipper should corroborate to achieve this intention. Some of the measures that can be considered are:

1.   Have a proper container-packing plan taking into consideration the shape, weight and dimension of the cargoes. Additionally, be aware of climatic conditions that may affect the cargoes i.e. would there be special requirement such as ventilation to minimize heat or condensation damage (fans, ventilation vents, temperature control container) or need to make use of all anchor points for additional lashing. Top-heavy cargoes should be handled with adequate care to avoid toppling. Cargoes should stand on their rightful positions as marked outside the packing. Never fill insufficient space with cargo standing on wrong position, as damage could result therefrom..

2.  Packing of cargoes should be at least custom standard taking into account risks of damage such as crushing, chipping, denting. There should be no void space internally as packing should be able to withstand load from other cargo placed on top. Pallets may help minimize wet damage (those at floor level) but such pallets must be adequately seasoned, fumigated or treated bearing in minds there could be regulations requiring these at destination ports and risks of quarantine/detention being very real. Pay particular attention to moisture absorbing packing materials and cargoes, and where necessary to provide protective wrapping.

3.  Ensure container is suitable and sound. Before a container is put into use, there should be a system of check to determine the container is externally sound. Look out for dent and hole, if necessary to conduct a light penetration test, which simply can be done by observing from inside the container when the door is closed. Hole will lead to water damage and create liability for party who handled the stuffing. Check for any stains, rust or any residue left from previous consignment. Unwanted labels remaining from earlier shipment should be removed, especially those bearing dangerous goods notice. Lock and hinge should be sound and not worn out.

4.   It is essential to ensure the maximum load capacity of container is not exceeded. Weights should be evenly spread out across the container end-to-end and side-to-side. Central of gravity should be kept as low as possible. Always eliminate any free space to avoid any lateral movement of cargoes within container. Shoring and inter-locking stow will help minimize such risks. Heavy items should be placed centrally. Items near door should be properly restrained where there is risk of falling out upon opening of container doors. Cover container floor with even height as far as possible.

5.  All cargoes within a container must be compatible. Effect of smell from one lot affecting other cargoes must be determined. Cargoes likely to sweat as against those not having such tendency should not be together. Where liquid cargoes are packed together with dry cargoes, the later should preferably be packed on top. Drums in pallets would be preferred where stain from leakage is likely to be less extensive.

6.   Where custom check is involved such cargoes should be near door for easy checking. All seals must be properly fixed and bolt seals would be preferred as against strap seals. Seals must be properly monitored and controlled under lock and key, keep records of these (dates and numbers used). Never allow a third party (example a transport driver) to fix the seals. Ensure shipping documents have the appropriate seals numbers.

The above are some of the points to note in packing a container. In addition to the higher risk of cargo damage, a container that was not properly packed may cause risks of damage to vessel or injury to life. Such exposure can lead to very substantial liability in claims for damages not to mention there could also be criminal liability.

Disclaimer: No professional advice or recommendation is intended in this article. Operators should consult respective professional practitioners to put in place appropriate operating procedures .