3 Seconds to Save Thousands! Reefer Drain Checks Routine

In reference to the image above, one of Recoupex’ cargo claims involves a shipment of onions that arrived at its destination spoiled and rotten. Upon opening the container, importer was greeted with a watery nightmare. Sealed drain holes trapped condensation, creating a swamp that ruined the entire cargo!

This scenario, unfortunately, is more common than you might think for exporters of fresh produce. The culprit? Overlooked reefer container drain holes. Onion moisture content is around 89%, which means:

Moisture buildup

Fresh produce like onions naturally releases moisture during transport. Without proper drainage, this moisture can accumulate inside the container, creating a breeding ground for mold and rot.

Sealed drains = cargo claims

 If drain holes are plugged during transit, that trapped water has nowhere to go. The result? Damaged cargo, lost profits, and a potential claim with the carrier. Dealing with cargo claims is something most exporters definitely want to avoid.

So, who’s responsible for keeping those drains open? The answer falls squarely on your shoulders – the exporter.

3 Seconds to Save Thousands: Reefer Drain Checks Routine

Here’s how to ensure your onions (and any other moisture-prone produce) arrive fresh and ready for sale:

• Due diligence: Before stuffing your container, include a simple drain hole check in your pre-shipment inspection routine. This quick step, literally taking seconds, can save you thousands of dollars in lost cargo.
• Train your loading crew: Make checking drain holes a standard part of your loading process. Include it in your stuffing report checklist.
• Spread the word: Don’t let this be a surprise to other exporters! Share this information with colleagues in the industry.

Remember, preventing a cargo disaster is far easier (and cheaper) than dealing with the aftermath. So, open those drains, keep your onions dry, and happy exporting!

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.

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