Astonishing easy way to inspect container free of charge

For those of you just discovering cargo claims’ resources, Recoupex blog is number # 1 legal support for all cargo owners, who want to recover losses from the liable carriers when cargo is damaged in transit.

So far we have talked about defense and evidence gathering strategies.

Today, we’re talking about the most reliable, free of charge way for shippers to inspect container conditions. The Light test.

What is a light test and why is it important in cargo claims.

We all know that containers most of the containers are old, rusty, and dented.

Sometimes a cargo reaches its destination water damaged. However, there is no hole in the container and when the consignee tries to claim damage caused by water ingress claim is rejected by the shipping line because there is no physical evidence that there was a hole or cut in the container. Tiny multiple holes in container ceilings, floors, and walls can let in water. Holes can occur as a result of dents and damage to surfaces caused during the shipping and handling of the container.

So, how can we prove that water ingressed the container? It’s easy… conduct a light test before loading cargo at the origin and when you receive water-damaged cargo at the destination.

Also check the exterior of the containers for erosion and dents or damage to the paintwork. Spotting and documenting defects serves as evidence that the ocean carrier provided an unseaworthy containers and is liable for your cargo loss.

A light test is a simple task and only takes a minute! Simply walk into the container, close the doors, and check for any light filtering into the container from the roof and around each of the doors.

From the photo above, we can see that from the outside, the door gaskets look completely normal…

But, when conducting a light test, we can see that there is a gap between the door gaskets, allowing water to ingress the container:

This is why the light test is so important to do before loading cargo into a container, or if the buyer received cargo that is inexplicably wet, the light test is great evidence to prove where the water ingressed the container and why the shipping line has to pay for cargo losses.