Peru, a major player in the ginger export game, shipped a whopping 8,453 tons of the root vegetable in just the first three months of 2024. That’s a record-breaking amount! But here’s the thing: ginger is a delicate cargo. If it’s not shipped carefully, it can easily spoil or get damaged, leading to a big headache (and financial loss) especially for ginger exporters.
Understanding its sensitivities can help prevent cargo damage and costly claims.
Temperature Sensitivity: Ginger hates the cold. Temperatures below 53.6°F (12°C) can damage its skin color, leave little pits on its surface, and even cause damage inside the root. To keep it in optimal condition, ginger needs to travel between 53.6°F and 57.2°F (12°C and 14°C) with plenty of moisture in the air (around 85% to 90%). Like a tropical vacation – warm and humid!
Moisture Matters: Ginger loses moisture quickly if not stored properly. Dehydration makes it shrivel up, lose its shiny look, and turn its skin a dull brown.
Bruises: Gingers are sensitive to bumps and scrapes. Rough handling during transport can cause bruises or cuts, which can lead to spoilage.
So, how do you avoid these challenges and ensure that your ginger cargo arrives in good condition? Here are some key tips to prevent cargo damage and potential cargo claims down the line:
Temperature Maintenance: Maintaining the right temperature and humidity throughout the entire journey is crucial. Reefer containers or controlled-atmosphere shipping are often used. Keep the temperature throughout transport between 12°C and 14°C (53.6°F to 57.2°F).
Breathe Easy Packaging: Ginger needs to breathe to prevent moisture build-up and rot. Well-ventilated packaging allows air to circulate and keeps the ginger from getting stuffy. Cardboard boxes with holes or special breathable materials are ideal.
Packing with Care: Ginger roots should be nestled securely to minimize movement and avoid any bumps or bruises.
With careful handling and these simple shipping practices, ginger exporters can ensure their harvest reaches distant shores in peak condition, minimizing cargo damage and those dreaded cargo claims.
But even with the best planning, the unexpected can happen during transit. That’s where Recoupex steps in! We’re here to support ginger exporters if any cargo damage and claims arise, our team of experts is here to help navigate the cargo claims process. So, focus on that bountiful harvest, and let Recoupex handle the rest!
Recoupex is a hub of transport lawyers – experts in cargo claims. We assess your case quickly. We have successfully recovered claims from Maersk, Sealand, Hapag-Lloyd, Mediterranean Shipping Company – MSC, CMA CGM, and other carriers.