How to reduce cargo contamination risk in transit

Contamination can be defined as the presence of a foreign body, substance, chemical, odor, etc in something (where it ought to not be present) making it impure. Contamination can occur in solids, liquids, and even gases, but here we restrict ourselves to contamination of beetles to food products.

The severity of cargo contamination with beetles oftentimes results in cargo losses, but also in extensive collateral expenses: containers deviation to other ports, refumigation, demurrage, and detention costs, etc.

Many times, it becomes difficult to prove that the contamination happened during transit, given the shipping lines’ “standard rejections” – load, stow count or inherent vices.

Having seen the possible reasons for contamination, we confirm that sometimes cargo is contaminated in transit, sometimes at the origin. Claim success depends on evidence.

Cargo contamination problems have been exacerbated by recent excessive delays and container rollovers at the ports of loading.

Most fumigation companies only guarantee the fumigation validity for a period of 60 days from the date of issue of the fumigation certificate.

What exporters can do to reduce cargo contamination risk in transit?

1. At the time of booking cargo, ensure that the time after fumigation plus transit time does not exceed 60 days. The shorter the advertised transit time, the better.
2. It is very important to ensure that the shipper fumigates the cargo as close to ETD date of the vessel that your shipment is booked on to ensure cargo claim remains valid if the fumigation company is at fault.
3. Always send notification of damage to the fumigation company and the shipping line as soon as the infestation is discovered at the destination.

Do not wait!

We cannot be caught off guard again.