How to make sure reefer cargo is not spoiled in transit?

Claims involving reefer containers are a common issue.

Commodities that are transported in refrigerated containers require customized temperature and environment control. All containers, not just reefers, are vulnerable to physical damage, but since they require specialized machinery and the fragile nature of the product they are carrying, refrigerated containers provide the most challenge. The most frequent causes of damage include reefer container malfunction, excessive periods of power, and incorrect temperature settings. Losses may be avoided for shippers to gathering evidence and pursuing cargo claims recoveries.

1. Always be aware of the storage life of your commodities.

The most important thing to remember is that there can be no realistic (without liability) transport operation if storage and transportation do not coincide with the transit and marketing periods. Request specific instructions for the delivery date when possible and not only ETA / and (as far as possible) direct transit for perishable commodities.

2. A critical step to recover cargo claim is gathering evidence of the sound cargo condition before loading.

The main causes of reefer claims are usually problems in external and internal conditions of the container, such as the integrity of panels; condition of door seals, ventilation deflector, refrigerating unit, screwing, T floor water drain evacuation, evacuation drain from evaporator defrosting water collecting tank. Future occurrences of such issues might be avoided by setting proper temperature, ventilation, and defrosting parameters as well as testing the refrigeration system.  Shippers who have pre-shipment documents and pictures available proving that cargo was packed, loaded and stuffed in the container as per the best industry practices, will have more chances to prove that cargo damage occurred due to carrier’s negligence when cargo was in the care and custody of the carrier.

3. Improper stuffing is a possible source of a cargo claim

It’s crucial to ensure cargo is precooled and stuffed properly. To ensure fresh produce  quality throughout shipping, appropriate cargo packing is important. Carton, crafted box, and bag packaging are the most often used types. The product, packing procedure, pre-cooling technique, and customer specifications all influence the material utilized for this package.

What exporters can do:

• Use strong corners of cartons to prevent crushing between the boxes.
• Align cartons to ensure airflow: under, over, and to each side and end of the stow.
• No cargo above the “red line”.
• Ensure corners of cartons are supported by pallets.

4. Own data records.

Put in place your own traceability devices and mark them on the transport contract (BL) to establish a contractual value to them.

Do not rely on Data loggers owned by the carrier, in most if the cases shipping lines or air carriers will not disclose their recordings to you alleging it is “private information”.